South African Geomatics Council Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you’re passionate about land surveying, mine surveying, or GIS and you’re currently pursuing studies in these fields in South Africa, then the South African Geomatics Council Bursary for 2026 might be the perfect opportunity to support your academic journey. This bursary is offered by the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC), formerly known as the South African Council for Professional and Technical Surveyors (PLATO).
The SAGC is a statutory body responsible for regulating and registering qualified professionals in the field of Geomatics. This includes Professional GISc Practitioners, Surveyors, Technician Surveyors, and Technologist Surveyors. With an ongoing mission to strengthen the geomatics profession and empower aspiring specialists, the SAGC bursary programme serves as a critical tool for cultivating the next generation of geomatics professionals in South Africa.
About the SAGC Bursary Programme
The SAGC bursary South Africa 2026 is designed to provide financial assistance to deserving students who are pursuing qualifications in surveying, mine surveying, and geographical information science (GIS). The bursary programme is open to students studying at both university and university of technology levels.
Fields of Study Covered
The South African Geomatics Council Bursary 2026 supports students enrolled in the following qualifications:
| Qualification Type | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| BSc Degree | Surveying / Geomatics |
| BTech | Surveying / Mine Surveying / Geomatics |
| National Diploma | Surveying / Mine Surveying / GIS |
Important Note:
Students who complete their BSc degree must register as a Professional GISc Practitioner or Land Surveyor within 4 years of graduating.
For those completing a National Diploma, they are required to register as a Mine Survey Technician, Survey Technician, or GIS Technician within 2 years of graduation.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the SAGC bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have completed Matric
- Must be studying towards a qualification in one of the listed geomatics-related fields
- Must be registered at a recognised South African University or University of Technology
Recognised Institutions Offering Relevant Courses
The qualifications funded by this bursary are offered by the following accredited institutions:
| Field | Institutions |
|---|---|
| Land and Engineering Surveying | University of Cape Town, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban University of Technology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Tshwane University of Technology, Mangosuthu University of Technology |
| Mine Surveying | University of Johannesburg, University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Geo-Information Science (GIS) | University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, University of Pretoria, University of the Free State, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Esri South Africa |
How to Apply for the South African Geomatics Council Bursary 2026
Interested students must download and complete the official SAGC bursary application form (available in PDF format). Once the form is filled, it must be submitted along with several mandatory supporting documents.
Required Documents
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Tertiary qualification certificates, if applicable
- June and November exam results (most recent)
- Proof of registration at university or university of technology
- Provisional acceptance letter from the institution (if applicable)
Failure to submit any of these documents will result in your application being disqualified.
Where to Submit Your Application
All completed applications and required documents must be posted to the following address:
South African Geomatics Council
P O Box 83018
South Hills
2136
South Africa
It is advised to use a reliable postal service or courier to ensure timely delivery of your application.
Bursary Closing Date
The application deadline for the South African Geomatics Council Bursary is:
- 31 August 2025
Applications received after this date will not be accepted, so it’s strongly advised to apply well before the deadline to avoid missing out on this valuable opportunity.
Contact Details for Enquiries
Should you have any questions about the bursary programme, you can reach out to the SAGC using the following contact information:
- Contact Person: Mari Pater
- Phone: 011 626 1040 / 011 626 1080
- Fax: 011 626 2007
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.sagc.org.za
Why Choose a Career in Geomatics or GIS?
Choosing a career in geomatics, mine surveying, or GIS opens a world of opportunities across sectors like engineering, construction, mining, environmental science, urban planning, and even disaster management. These fields are becoming more critical in South Africa’s infrastructural development, resource management, and sustainable planning initiatives.
With the support of the South African Geomatics Council bursary, financially constrained yet academically deserving students can access world-class education and career paths previously out of reach.
Post-Study Registration Obligations
The SAGC places a strong emphasis on professional development and accountability. Therefore, all bursary recipients are required to register with the Council after graduation:
| Qualification | Registration Requirement |
|---|---|
| BSc Degree | Register within 4 years as a Land Surveyor or GISc Practitioner |
| National Diploma | Register within 2 years as a Mine/Survey/GIS Technician |
This registration ensures that students become licensed professionals, capable of working in both public and private sectors.
Benefits of the SAGC Bursary
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Academic support and professional development
- Exposure to industry networks and career pathways
- Promotes employment-readiness through registration requirements
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of being awarded the SAGC bursary, consider the following tips:
- Begin the application process early and collect all necessary documents in advance.
- Ensure all documents are certified, especially your ID, matric certificate, and academic results.
- Write a strong motivation letter explaining your interest in geomatics and how this bursary will help you achieve your goals.
- Use a reliable postal method and track your submission.
FAQs About South African Geomatics Council Bursary
Can I apply if I am still waiting for university acceptance?
Yes. You can submit a provisional acceptance letter along with your application. However, final acceptance will be needed to release any bursary funds.
Is the South African Geomatics Council bursary renewable each year?
The bursary is awarded annually. Recipients may reapply each year, but renewal is not guaranteed and depends on academic performance and budget availability.
Does this bursary cover accommodation and study materials?
While the main focus is on tuition fees, some bursary packages may include allowances for study materials or accommodation, depending on budget and individual needs. Confirm the latest policy when applying.
Conclusion
The South African Geomatics Council Bursary South Africa for 2026 represents more than just financial support it’s a stepping stone into a respected and high-demand profession. If you’re committed to becoming a skilled surveyor, GISc practitioner, or technician in South Africa, this bursary could significantly reduce your educational financial burden while guiding you toward professional excellence.
