SANBI Bursary Application for 2026/2027

SANBI Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on SANBI Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with a passion for biodiversity, environmental science, conservation, and sustainable development? The SANBI Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering valuable financial support to academically deserving students who wish to pursue studies in biodiversity-related and environmental fields. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a public entity under the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), mandated to explore, conserve, and promote South Africa’s rich biodiversity while contributing to sustainable livelihoods and environmental research.

The SANBI Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance, which may include tuition fees, accommodation, prescribed textbooks, and a monthly living allowance. Beyond funding, bursary recipients benefit from exposure to real-world conservation projects, access to research opportunities, and potential placement within SANBI’s national network of botanical gardens, biodiversity programmes, and partner institutions. This bursary is aimed at students who demonstrate strong academic ability and a clear commitment to careers in biodiversity conservation, environmental management, ecology, botany, zoology, climate change studies, and related disciplines.

By applying for the SANBI Bursary 2026/2027, students not only receive financial relief but also gain the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s environmental sustainability, biodiversity protection, and scientific research capacity.

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, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the SANBI Bursary Programme 2026/2027.

About South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) was established in 2004 under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act and operates under South Africa’s environmental governance framework.

SANBI’s core mandate is to conduct biodiversity research, disseminate scientific information, and support evidence-based decision-making related to biodiversity conservation. The institute also plays a key role in ecosystem rehabilitation and restoration, ensuring the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s natural environments.

In addition, SANBI manages the country’s National Botanical Gardens (NBGs) and National Zoological Gardens (NZGs), which promote biodiversity conservation through research, education, and public engagement.

About SANBI Bursary Programme 2026/2027

SANBI invites eligible South African students to apply for its 2026 postgraduate bursary programme, which supports research projects aligned with SANBI’s Research Strategy and institutional mandate.

The bursary is available for the following levels of study:

• Honours
• Masters
• Doctoral (PhD)

All proposed research projects must be relevant to SANBI’s priority research themes. Applicants who are unsure whether their project qualifies are encouraged to contact SANBI before submitting an application.

SANBI Research Strategy – Strategic Objectives

SANBI’s bursary programme is guided by four key Strategic Objectives (SOs):

1. Foundational biodiversity knowledge and information is generated to support priority applied and strategic research projects
2. The state of biodiversity, including pressures and responses, is assessed to inform policy and decision-making
3. Integrated evidence and knowledge on priority biodiversity issues is provided to guide national actions and policies
4. The value and impact of National Botanical Gardens and National Zoological Gardens collections are enhanced through strategic research and infrastructure support

Applicants must ensure their proposed research aligns with at least one of these objectives.

SANBI Bursary Coverage and Funding Value

The SANBI bursary provides funding for tuition fees and living expenses, with support structured as follows:

• Honours: R120 000 (one year only)
• Masters: R150 000 per year (up to two years)
• Doctoral: R180 000 per year (up to three years)

SANBI reserves the right not to award all bursaries. Shortlisted and successful candidates will be contacted within 30 days after the closing date. If no feedback is received within this period, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements for SANBI Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be under the age of 35
• Must intend to study full-time in 2026
• Must be applying for an Honours, Masters, or Doctoral degree for the first time
• Proposed research must align with SANBI’s mandate and research strategy
• Must intend to study at a recognised South African university
• Must have completed an Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma (for Masters applicants)
• Must have confirmed placement in a postgraduate programme
• Must have provisional acceptance from academic supervisors
• Must be unemployed
• Must demonstrate enthusiasm, initiative, and commitment to producing high-quality, impactful research

Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.

How to Apply for SANBI Bursary 2026/2027

Applications must be submitted online via the official SANBI application platform. Click here.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must upload clear certified copies of the following documents:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified academic transcripts
• Certified copy of highest qualification
• Letter of interest
• Research project outline:
• • 1 page (Honours)
  • 2 pages (Masters and Doctoral)
• Full Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two academic reference letters
• Letter from a prospective university supervisor and a SANBI supervisor, confirming willingness to supervise
• Provisional registration or application confirmation from the university

Incomplete applications may be disqualified.

Closing Date for SANBI Bursary Application 2026/2027

Application Deadline: 25 October

Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are advised to apply well before the deadline.

Contact SANBI for Bursary Enquiries

For queries related to the SANBI Bursary Programme, contact:

• Dr Ferozah Conrad
  Email: f.conrad@sanbi.org.za

• Ms René du Toit
  Email: r.dutoit@sanbi.org.za