Council for Geoscience (CGS) Bursary South Africa 2025

The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is a leading scientific research council in South Africa.

Established as the successor to the Geological Survey of South Africa, the CGS plays a vital role in promoting and conducting geoscience research, while also providing specialized geoscientific services to various sectors.

Their core values – Excellence, Innovation, Diversity, Service, Learning, and Accountability – guide their work and commitment to advancing the field of geoscience.

About the Council for Geoscience Bursary

The CGS bursary program is designed to support South African students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees (BSc, BSc Hons, MSc, PhD) in various geoscience fields.

This includes exciting disciplines like:

  1. Computational Geosciences
  2. Economic Geology
  3. Engineering Geology
  4. Environmental Science
  5. Geo-informatics
  6. Geochemistry
  7. Geology
  8. Geophysics
  9. Hydrogeology (focus on groundwater modeling)
  10. Mineral Economics
  11. Mining Seismology
  12. Remote Sensing  

It’s important to note that bursaries are awarded for research topics aligned with the CGS’s research focus.

The CGS bursary offers comprehensive financial support to successful applicants. Here’s what the bursary covers:

  1. Registration fees
  2. Tuition fees
  3. Prescribed textbooks
  4. Meals
  5. Accommodation
  6. Research/excursions
  7. A once-off laptop allowance for first-time bursary recipients

Please be aware that bursary recipients may be required to participate in vocational work with the CGS during university holidays.

Additionally, there’s a work-back contract in place, which means successful graduates may be required to work for the CGS upon completing their studies.

Council for Geoscience Bursary Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure you meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:

  1. South African citizenship
  2. Completion of Matric (Grade 12)
  3. Minimum of Level 6 in Mathematics and Physical Science for Matric
  4. Full-time enrollment or intention to enroll for a qualifying geoscience degree in 2025 (start of the academic year)
  5. Registration or planned registration at a recognized South African tertiary institution
  6. Successful completion of all registered courses (if currently studying)
  7. No current employment with willingness and ability to work for CGS after graduation (if required)
  8. Preference is given to female students and students living with disabilities

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Download the Council for Geoscience (CGS) Bursary Application Form.
  2. Complete the application form accurately.
  3. Gather the following supporting documents (certified copies are mandatory):
    • ID document
    • Matric certificate
    • Most recent academic record/transcripts (if currently studying)
    • Proof of university acceptance (on institution’s letterhead)
    • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
    • Motivational letter outlining your reasons for applying (see online resources for writing tips)
  4. Submit your complete application package, including all supporting documents, via email to bursaries@geoscience.org.za.
  5. Ensure your email subject line clearly states: “BursaryFT-2025”

How to Contact

For any inquiries related to the CGS bursary program, you can contact the Council for Geoscience directly:

  1. Telephone: 012 841 1020 / 012 841 1911
  2. Email: bursaryenquiries@geoscience.org.za

Council for Geoscience Bursary Closing Date

Please note that the application deadline for the 2025 CGS bursary program is yet to be announced.

The previous application deadline for the 2024 intake was February 23rd, 2024.

Stay tuned for updates on the CGS website or contact them directly for the upcoming application period.