SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with a strong interest in maritime studies, marine engineering, nautical science, or ocean-related careers? The SAMSA Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue studies aligned with South Africa’s maritime sector. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is a state-owned entity mandated to ensure maritime safety, environmental protection, and the development of seafarers and maritime skills within South Africa.
Through the SAMSA Bursary, the authority invests in building a skilled maritime workforce by supporting students in critical and scarce skills fields related to shipping, marine navigation, maritime law, marine engineering, and related disciplines. As a key regulator and promoter of maritime safety and skills development, SAMSA plays a vital role in strengthening South Africa’s blue economy and global maritime competitiveness.
The SAMSA Bursary Programme 2026/2027 typically offers comprehensive funding, which may include tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a living allowance. In addition to financial support, bursary recipients may benefit from practical training opportunities, industry exposure, and potential employment pathways within the maritime sector upon completion of their studies.
By applying for the SAMSA Bursary 2026/2027, students not only receive much-needed financial assistance but also position themselves for meaningful careers in South Africa’s growing maritime and ocean economy.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, approved fields of study, application process, and closing date for the SAMSA Bursary Application 2026/2027.
About South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA)
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is a government agency established in 1998 to oversee maritime safety and environmental protection in South Africa. SAMSA operates under the mandate to:
- Promote South Africa’s maritime interests
- Ensure the safety of life and property at sea
- Prevent and reduce marine pollution caused by ships
SAMSA’s head office is based in Pretoria, while its Maritime Rescue Coordination and Response Centre is located in Cape Town. The Authority also maintains regional offices across major ports, including Durban, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Cape Town, Richards Bay, Mossel Bay, East London, and the Port of Ngqura.
SAMSA provides a wide range of critical maritime services such as shipping safety, small vessel safety, sea watch and response, ship registration, seafarer services, audit and accreditation, naval architecture, and EPIRB registration.
About the SAMSA Bursary Programme 2026/2027
Fields of Study Covered
SAMSA awards bursaries to support advanced skills development in the maritime engineering field. The bursary is specifically aimed at graduates who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Naval Architecture.
The bursary covers:
-
MSc in Naval Architecture
Only two bursary positions are awarded, making this a highly competitive and sought-after funding opportunity. Upon successful completion of their studies, graduates may be offered permanent employment with SAMSA in Cape Town or Durban, depending on operational needs.
Eligibility Requirements for SAMSA Bursary Application 2026/2027
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 20 and 35 years old
- Must have completed Matric
- Must hold a BTech or BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering
- Must intend to study towards an MSc in Naval Architecture
Preference will be given to:
- Persons with disabilities
- Applicants from designated groups
Failure to meet all eligibility criteria will result in the application being disqualified.
How to Apply for SAMSA Bursary 2026/2027
Eligible applicants must submit their applications electronically. Ensure that all required documents are included, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Mechanical Engineering degree certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Submission Method
Applications must be emailed to: Wnkuna@samsa.org.za
Email subject line: “SAMSA Bursary Application – Your Full Name”
Closing Date for SAMSA Bursary Application for 2026/2027
The closing date for applications is: 15 June
Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
Contact Details for SAMSA Bursary Enquiries
For any queries related to the SAMSA Bursary Programme, contact:
South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA)
Head Office
- Tel: 012 366 2600
- Fax: 012 366 2601
Contact Person: William Nkuna (HR Officer)
Email: Wnkuna@samsa.org.za
