SACAP Student Bursary 2026 – A Chance for Architecture Students
If you’re a South African student who is currently studying architecture and you’re looking for a way to cut down on tuition costs and living expenses, the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) has a special offer for you. The SACAP Student Bursary is a financial award that helps students who need support to keep studying. It is open to anyone enrolled at an accredited university or college that teaches architecture across the country. The bursary is aimed at students from second year up to honours level, and it is especially focused on helping those who come from backgrounds that have historically been underrepresented in the field.
What the Bursary Covers
The money from this bursary can be used for a variety of costs related to your studies. Think of it as a way to cover your tuition fees, study materials, or even living expenses while you finish your architecture degree. Because it is backed by a government act, SACAP is required to manage a fund that helps students and registered professionals in architecture with their education, training, and ongoing learning. This means that the bursary is part of a larger effort to make the profession more diverse and inclusive.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you need to satisfy the following simple checks:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be officially registered as a student at an accredited architecture school.
- Be between second year and honours level.
- Have a household income not higher than R350,000 per year.
- If you have a disability, the threshold is R600,000 per year.
- Students from designated groups (for example, historically disadvantaged communities) will be given extra consideration.
If you meet all of these points, you can start the application process.
Documents You’ll Need
SACAP will only look at applications that come with all the necessary paperwork. Gather these items before you start:
- A one‑page letter that tells us why you need the bursary and how it will help you finish your degree.
- A certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (the high‑school qualification).
- Certified copies of your latest academic results and your full academic record.
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Proof of income for the last three months for you or your parents/guardians – this could be payslips or an affidavit if someone is unemployed.
- Three months of bank statements for you or your parents/guardians.
Missing any of these documents could mean your application is rejected outright.
How to Submit Your Application
- Finish the application form – this is a simple online or paper form that asks for your personal information and your academic details.
- Attach all the certified documents – make sure they are clear and legible.
- Write your one‑page motivation letter – keep it honest and concise.
- Email everything to the SACAP Education Officer. The email address is Zama.Mzamo@sacapsa.com.
- In the subject line, write: “SACAP Student Bursary Application 2026 – [Your Full Name]”.
Send the complete packet by 16:00 (4 pm) on Friday, 5 December 2025. If you miss this deadline, your application will not be considered.
What Happens Next
SACAP will review all applications and may decide not to award a bursary to some applicants. They will only send a reply if you are chosen. If you don’t hear back within two months after the deadline, it probably means you were not selected. Keep your inbox checked just in case.
Why This Matters
A bursary can make a huge difference in your life. It can free you from the worry of paying for every textbook, letting you focus more on learning and building your portfolio. It also shows that the architecture community cares about supporting future designers and builders. The SACAP Student Bursary is a clear example of that support in action.
Take the Next Step
If you think you meet the criteria and want to apply, gather your documents today and prepare a strong motivation letter that explains why you deserve this support. Send everything to Zama.Mzamo@sacapsa.com before the deadline. Remember, the sooner you finish your paperwork, the better your chances of getting the help you need.
Good luck – this is your chance to turn your architecture dreams into reality without the financial burden holding you back.