The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is inviting applications for its 2026 Bursaries, Internships, and Learnerships. These programs support students and graduates pursuing studies and careers in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, and weather observation. The initiative aims to develop skilled professionals in weather and climate services, contributing to South Africa’s national capacity for accurate forecasting and environmental monitoring.
The opportunities available include:
- Forecasting Internships (Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting ).
- BSc Honours in Meteorology.
- National Certificate: Weather Observations Learnerships.
ALL applications must be submitted on the prescribed SA Weather Service Full-Time Bursary
Application Form valid for 2026, obtainable from the SA Weather Service website . Enquiries should be directed to: [email protected].
Forward the application to: [email protected]. For attention : Learning and Development
NB. Applicants must please quote the Specific Reference, Your Name and Surname on the subject
line of an email when they apply.
Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you have not been contacted within a month after the closing date of the advertisement, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. The South African Weather Service reserve the right to not allocate bursaries.
Closing date: 07 November 2025
Also Read: Apply now for the latest internships across Africa.Also if you are interested in applying for sponsored opportunites you can visit our bursary and scholarship category.
A) Forecasting Internship (Ref. FOI:01/11/2026)
Overview
The South African Weather Service offers a one-year Forecasting Internship for graduates with an Honours degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences. This internship leads to a Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting and provides specialized training at the SAWS Head Office in Pretoria, starting February 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold an Honours degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences
- Have Mathematics (2nd-year level) and Physical Sciences (1st-year level)
- Ensure the qualification includes Dynamical Meteorology courses compliant with WMO BIP-M (2023 version)
Application Documents
- Certified copy of Matric results.
- Certified academic record.
- Certified SA ID.
- CV and motivation letter.
- Certified copies of degrees.
- Completed Full-Time Bursary Application Form.
Recommendations
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Basic computer literacy.
Bursary Coverage
- Full tuition fee.
- Monthly stipend for the study duration.
B) BSc Honours in Meteorology Bursary (Ref. HONS:01/10/2026)
Overview
SAWS invites applications for bursaries toward BSc Honours in Meteorology. This program is aimed at students accepted or already registered at a recognized South African university.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor of Science degree or proof of registration for BSc Honours in Meteorology.
- Have a letter of confirmation from the university.
Application Documents
- Certified copy of Matric results.
- Certified copy of academic record.
- Certified copy of BSc degree (if available).
- Certified SA ID.
- Testimonial and motivation letter.
- Completed Full-Time Bursary Application Form.
Recommendations
- Good interpersonal relations.
- Basic computer literacy.
Bursary Coverage
- Full tuition fee.
- Monthly stipend for study duration.
C) National Certificate: Weather Observations Learnership (Ref. NCW:01/11/2026)
Overview
SAWS offers a 12-month Learnership in Weather Observation leading to a National Certificate: Weather Observation (SAQA QUAL ID 58995) or Occupational Qualification: Meteorological Technician. Training takes place at the SAWS Regional Training Centre in Pretoria.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a Grade 12 certificate
- Obtain at least 50% in Mathematics (not Maths Literacy), 50% in Physical Science, and 50% in English
- Post-Training Opportunities
- Graduates may be appointed at regional SAWS offices. Successful candidates must obtain a valid driver’s license during training at their own cost.
Application Documents
- Certified copy of Matric results
- Certified SA ID
- Certified driver’s license (if available)
- CV and motivation letter
- Certified copies of degrees (if available)
- Completed Full-Time Bursary Application Form
Recommendations
- Good interpersonal skills
- Basic computer literacy
Bursary Coverage
- Monthly stipend for study duration
- Equal Opportunity Commitment
The South African Weather Service promotes diversity and equal opportunity. Applicants from previously disadvantaged groups and females are strongly encouraged to apply. SAWS reserves the right not to allocate bursaries and will contact shortlisted candidates only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the SAWS 2026 programs?
These programs are open to South African citizens who meet the specific academic and subject requirements for each category.
2. Can I apply for more than one program?
You may apply for one program that best fits your academic qualifications and interests.
3. What documents must I include with my application?
Applications must include certified copies of your ID, academic results, qualifications, CV, motivation letter, and the official bursary application form.
4. How do I submit my application?
Email your completed form and supporting documents to [email protected]
, with the correct reference number, name, and surname in the subject line.
5. What costs are covered by the bursary?
Bursaries cover tuition fees and a monthly stipend during the study or training period.
6. Where will the training take place?
Training and internships are conducted at the South African Weather Service Head Office or the Regional Training Centre in Pretoria.
7. What happens after I complete the program?
Successful learners or interns may be placed at SAWS regional offices, subject to performance and availability.
8. When is the closing date for applications?
All applications must be submitted by 7 November 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
