The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursaries 2026 are now open for applications, offering a golden opportunity for South African students passionate about building careers in the aviation and aerospace industries. These bursaries are part of SACAA’s commitment to investing in skills development, ensuring that young professionals are equipped with the knowledge and qualifications needed to contribute to the country’s aviation sector.
The SACAA bursary program is designed to support academically talented but financially disadvantaged South African students. It focuses on key aviation-related fields where skills are scarce, such as aeronautical engineering, aircraft maintenance, avionics, air traffic management, aviation safety, and related sciences.
- Host Country:South Africa
- Bursary Provider:South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)
- Study Level: Tertiary Students
- Eligibility: South African Tertiary students
- Deadline: 30 September 2025 (at 12 midnight)
What Fields are Covered by the SACAA Bursary 2026
Bursaries will be awarded for studies in the following fields:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
- Cadet Pilot Training: Fixed Wing Pilot Training
- Cadet Pilot Training: Helicopter Pilot Training
South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursaries 2026 Funding Package
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Cadet Pilot Training: Full tuition fees, flight training, exam fees, mentorship.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering: Full tuition, registration fees, tools, textbooks, learning materials, accommodation, stipend, practical training, mentorship.
- Aeronautical Engineering: Full tuition, registration fees, textbooks, study materials, accommodation, and a stipend.
Duration of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursary
The SACAA Bursaries 2026 are awarded for the entire duration of the approved study program, whether undergraduate or postgraduate, provided that students maintain satisfactory academic performance each year.
Who are Eligible to Apply South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursary
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
Cadet Pilot Training
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Currently in Matric or completed Matric
- Achieved Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics & Physical Science
- Proven financial need
- Passionate about aviation, disciplined, and motivated
Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Currently in Matric or completed Matric
- Achieved Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics & Physical Science
- Accepted or provisionally accepted at an accredited South African institution
- Strong academic record and proven financial need
- Technically inclined and passionate about engineering
Aeronautical Engineering
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Currently in Matric or completed Matric
- Achieved Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics & Physical Science
- Accepted or provisionally accepted at an accredited South African institution
- Strong academic record and proven financial need
- Passionate about engineering and innovation
South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursaries 2026 Documents Checklist
Applicants must submit the following documents (certified where required):
- ID document
- Matric latest results or certificate
- Latest academic results (if studying) on institution letterhead
- Parent/guardian proof of income (payslips or affidavit if unemployed)
- Motivational letter
South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursaries 2026 Timeline
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Applications open: Mid-2025
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Closing date: End of September 2025
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Screening and shortlisting: October – November 2025
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Notification of successful applicants: December 2025
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Bursary program commences: January 2026 academic year
Why Apply for SACAA Bursaries?
This bursary is a unique chance to study with full financial support while gaining access to potential career opportunities in South Africa’s growing aviation industry. Successful candidates not only receive funding but also benefit from industry exposure, mentorship, and possible internship placements with SACAA or its partner organizations.
FAQs – SACAA Bursaries 2026
Who qualifies for the SACAA Bursaries 2026?
South African citizens with excellent academic performance, especially in Mathematics and Physical Science, who wish to pursue aviation-related studies.
Does the SACAA bursary cover all study costs?
Yes. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and a monthly living allowance.
Which fields of study are supported by the bursary?
Fields include aeronautical engineering, avionics, air traffic management, aviation safety, and related aviation disciplines.
How long does the bursary last?
It is awarded for the full duration of the degree program, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic results.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is expected to be the **end of September 2025**.
What documents are required when applying?
Applicants must submit ID copies, academic results, proof of acceptance, CV, motivational letter, and proof of household income.
Does the bursary include internship opportunities?
Yes, in many cases, SACAA provides industry exposure and internship opportunities for bursary recipients.
How will I know if I am shortlisted?
Successful applicants will be notified by **December 2025** before the academic year begins.
Can postgraduate students apply?
Yes. Postgraduate studies in aviation-related fields may also be considered.
Is financial need a requirement?
Yes. The bursary primarily targets students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
Where can I get the application form?
Application forms are usually available on the official **SACAA website** or through their bursary announcements.
What happens if I fail a subject?
The bursary may continue if the student shows improvement and meets the bursary conditions, but repeated poor performance can lead to cancellation.
Does the bursary cover private colleges?
No, it is only valid for recognized public South African universities and universities of technology.
What subjects are important for eligibility?
Mathematics, Physical Science, and English are the key subjects considered.
How competitive is the bursary?
Highly competitive, as SACAA selects only the best-performing students with financial need and passion for aviation.
Will I need to work for SACAA after completing my studies?
In some cases, bursary holders may be required to work back their funding by serving the aviation sector, often through SACAA placements.
Can I reapply if I was not selected?
Yes, students are encouraged to reapply in the following year if they still meet the requirements.
Does SACAA fund international studies?
No, the bursary only supports studies at accredited South African institutions.
When does funding start?
Funding begins at the start of the **2026 academic year** once students are registered at their institutions.
