Looking to build a better city? The Department of Human Settlements is giving you a chance to study and help South Africa’s homes, roads and neighborhoods grow.
The Department of Human Settlements has opened the 2026 Scholarship Programme. If you’re a South African student who loves the idea of designing houses, planning communities, or making sure people have good places to live, this scholarship could give you a full education without the usual cost worries. The scholarship is only for people who are still in university and who didn’t finish a degree before. It is also only for those who need money for their studies.
What the Scholarship Gives You
The scholarship pays for most of what you need for your university life:
- Registering for courses
- Paying tuition
- Buying textbooks and other learning materials
- Living in the university dorms
- Eating at the campus canteen
What it doesn’t cover is a monthly allowance, transport costs, copying paper, extra courses you might need to catch up, club memberships, or laundry.
When to Apply
- Open for applications: 22 December 2025
- Last day to send your papers: 7 January 2026
If you miss the deadline, you won’t be able to get the scholarship.
Which Courses Count
The scholarship is for subjects that help people build and plan homes, cities and villages. These are some of the fields it covers:
- Architecture or Architectural Tech
- Construction Management or Construction Science
- Civil Engineering
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Town and Regional Planning or Urban & Rural Studies
- Quantity Surveying, Land Surveying, or Building Surveying
Who Can Apply
You must meet every one of these rules to be considered:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have very good Matric results (the top exam you take after high school)
- Be a first‑time university student (you haven’t earned a degree yet)
- Show that you need help paying for school
- Be a young person (you’re still in your teens or early twenties)
What Documents You Need
Fill out the application form and bring these proof files:
- The finished Human Settlements Scholarship Application Form
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- A certified copy of your June or December Matric results
- Proof that you live in a particular area (a utility bill, for example)
- A provisional acceptance letter from the university you plan to go to
- Proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income (a salary slip or a sworn statement)
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID cards
Missing any of these will mean your application won’t be looked at.
How to Get the Form and Send Your Papers
- Download the form – Click here to get the PDF.
- Fill it out – Make sure all the questions are answered accurately.
- Scan everything clearly – The computer will need to see each document.
- Email it – Send the completed form and all your supporting documents to scholarships2026@dhs.gov.za.
- Use a clear subject line – For example, Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 Application – [Your Full Name].
Double‑check that every file is attached before you hit send. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Why This Scholarship Is a Good Move
The Department wants to make sure young people from all parts of South Africa can study jobs that help build homes and plan cities. By covering almost every part of your university bill, the scholarship gives you time to focus on learning rather than worrying about money.
It is also a way to help South Africa’s future, because the people who design buildings, manage construction, and plan towns are crucial for making sure everyone can live in a safe and good environment.
Quick Dates to Remember
| Step | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 22 December 2025 |
| Applications close | 7 January 2026 |
| Academic year for scholarship | 2026 |
Final Tips Before You Apply
- Start early: The more time you have, the fewer technical hiccups you’ll hit.
- Scan documents clearly: A blurry copy can get you disqualified.
- Check everything: Make sure every required paper is in the email.
- Keep a copy of your email for yourself.
If you meet the criteria and are excited to work on building a better future for everyone, this scholarship could be the perfect step. Don’t let the deadline pass – get the application form now, finish it carefully, and send it on time. Good luck!