Weather and Climate studies Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Weather and Climate Studies Bursaries Available for 2026. Are you a passionate South African student interested in understanding weather patterns, climate change, and their impact on the environment and society? If you dream of building a career in meteorology, climatology, or environmental science but face financial constraints, applying for a Weather and Climate studies bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your gateway to success.
With climate change, extreme weather events, and environmental sustainability becoming global priorities, the demand for skilled professionals in weather and climate-related fields continues to grow. Governments, research institutions, universities, and environmental organizations increasingly rely on trained experts to provide data-driven insights and solutions. Fortunately, several institutions and funding bodies are offering Weather and Climate bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing financial support to deserving students pursuing studies in this critical scientific field.
What Is Weather and Climate Studies?
Weather and Climate Studies focus on understanding atmospheric processes, weather systems, long-term climate patterns, and their interaction with ecosystems and human activities. This field plays a crucial role in disaster risk reduction, agriculture, water resource management, environmental planning, and climate policy development. Beyond forecasting, weather and climate sciences contribute to sustainable development and climate resilience at local, national, and global levels.
Major Fields of Weather and Climate Studies
In South Africa, Weather and Climate studies cover a range of specializations, including:
- Meteorology: The study of weather processes and short-term atmospheric forecasting.
- Climatology: Analysis of long-term climate patterns and climate change trends.
- Atmospheric Science: Focuses on the physical and chemical properties of the atmosphere.
- Climate Change and Adaptation Studies: Examines mitigation strategies and resilience planning.
- Environmental and Earth Sciences: Integrates climate data with land, water, and ecosystems.
- Hydrology and Climate Systems: Studies the relationship between climate and water resources.
- Geospatial and Climate Modelling: Uses data, GIS, and simulations to predict climate impacts.
Career Opportunities in Weather and Climate Studies in South Africa
Graduates in Weather and Climate-related fields can pursue rewarding careers such as:
- Meteorologist or Weather Forecaster
- Climate Scientist or Climate Change Analyst
- Environmental Consultant
- Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist
- Research Scientist or Academic
- Climate Policy Advisor
- Hydrologist or Environmental Planner
With increasing investments in climate research and environmental sustainability, professionals in this field have opportunities in government departments, research institutions, NGOs, and international organizations.
Why Apply for Weather and Climate Studies Bursaries in 2026?
Studying Weather and Climate-related programmes can be expensive, especially when factoring in tuition fees, research costs, fieldwork, accommodation, and learning materials. To support future scientists, many government departments, universities, science councils, and private organizations are offering Weather and Climate studies bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027.
These bursaries may cover tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and in some cases, research funding and monthly stipends. Beyond financial relief, bursary recipients often gain access to mentorship, internships, and research opportunities that enhance employability and career growth.
List of Weather and Climate Studies Bursaries Available for 2026
Below, you will find a comprehensive list of Weather and Climate Studies bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by reputable institutions and funding bodies committed to developing skills in environmental and climate sciences. Each bursary listing includes details on eligibility criteria, fields of study covered, application procedures, and closing dates to help you plan your academic journey in Weather and Climate Studies.
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary
FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary
iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary
Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme
Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship
South African Weather Service Bursary
