South African Weather Service (SAWS) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on South African Weather Service (SAWS) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with a strong interest in weather, climate, atmospheric science, and environmental studies? The South African Weather Service Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue studies in scarce and critical skills fields such as meteorology, climatology, atmospheric sciences, hydrology, environmental science, and related disciplines. As South Africa’s national provider of weather and climate-related services, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) plays a vital role in protecting lives, supporting economic development, and advancing scientific research through accurate weather forecasts, climate monitoring, and early warning systems.
The SAWS Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance, which may include payment of tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a monthly allowance. In addition to financial support, bursary recipients benefit from practical training, workplace exposure, and potential employment opportunities within the South African Weather Service upon successful completion of their studies. This bursary is aimed at academically strong students, particularly those interested in contributing to climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, aviation safety, agriculture, and environmental sustainability in South Africa.
By applying for the South African Weather Service Bursary 2026/2027, students gain more than just funding, they gain a pathway into a meaningful and impactful career within the weather, climate, and environmental sciences sector.
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 South African Weather Service Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About South African Weather Service (SAWS)
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is a public entity operating under the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, established in 2001. It is the official and authoritative body responsible for weather and climate forecasting in South Africa.
SAWS complies with global meteorological standards as a registered member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The organisation provides critical weather services to various sectors, including aviation, marine operations, agriculture, disaster management, and government institutions. In addition to government-funded public good services, SAWS also offers paid commercial weather services to industry clients.
About the SA Weather Services Bursary Programme 2026/2027
The SA Weather Services Bursary Programme 2026 is offered in the form of a Forecasting Internship / Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting. The programme targets graduates who have completed an Honours degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences.
Successful applicants will undergo intensive professional training that equips them with both theoretical knowledge and practical forecasting skills required in operational meteorology.
Fields Covered and Training Structure
The programme focuses on Weather Forecasting, with training content aligned to World Meteorological Organization (WMO) requirements.
Key programme details include:
- A 1-year full-time forecasting internship
- Training based at the SAWS Head Office in Pretoria
- Programme start date: 29 January 2026
- Inclusion of dynamical meteorology and forecasting modules prescribed by the WMO
Upon completion, forecasters may be considered for placement at SAWS offices in:
- Pretoria
- OR Tambo International Airport
- Bloemfontein
- Durban
- Port Elizabeth
- Cape Town
Selection Process and Important Notes
- The bursary does NOT cover outstanding student debt or existing student loans
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Feedback will be provided within one month after the closing date
- Applicants who do not receive feedback within this period should consider their application unsuccessful
Eligibility Requirements for SAWS Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have completed an Honours degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences
- Must have passed Mathematics at second-year university level
- Must have passed Physical Sciences at first-year university level
- Must have basic computer literacy skills
- Must possess good interpersonal and communication skills
Failure to meet any of the above criteria will result in automatic disqualification.
How to Apply for SAWS Bursary Application 2026/2027
Interested candidates must follow the steps below:
- Download and complete the SA Weather Service Bursary Application Form 2026 (PDF)
- Use the following reference number in your application: REF.WS12/10/2026
Supporting Documents Required
Applicants must submit clear certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Most recent academic transcript (with institution letterhead or logo)
- Completed qualification certificates
- Any additional merit certificates or achievements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter / motivational letter (maximum 1 page)
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Application Submission Details
All applications must be submitted via email:
- Email address: Jannie.Stander@weathersa.co.za
- Email subject line: SA Weather Bursary 2026
Closing Date for SAWS Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 3 November at 17:00
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are advised to submit well before the closing date to avoid disqualification.
Contact Details of South African Weather Service (SAWS)
For further information regarding the SA Weather Services Bursary Programme, contact:
- Contact Person: Mr. Jannie Stander
- Email: Jannie.Stander@weathersa.co.za
