Apply for the DSAC Heritage Bursary 2026 – Full Cost Support for Students in Heritage Studies
If you’re a student at a South African university who wants to study heritage, museums, conservation, archaeology, or related fields, this scholarship can pay for almost everything you need for the 2026 academic year. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) is offering a full‑cost bursary that can cover tuition, books, a laptop, accommodation, meals, and transport. You’ll have a chance to study without worrying about money, so you can focus on learning and research.
About DSAC and the Bursary
DSAC protects South Africa’s cultural heritage and supports arts and sports. They run a program that helps students like you who want to become heritage professionals – archivists, curators, researchers, conservationists, and more. The bursary is aimed especially at people from disadvantaged backgrounds who may not qualify for NSFAS or other aid.
What the Bursary Covers
The DSAC Heritage Bursary can cover up to R110,000 per year. Here is what you can expect to receive:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Full payment to your university |
| Books | All required textbooks |
| Laptop or tablet | Up to R10,000 |
| Accommodation | Up to R50,000 (depending on need) |
| Meals | Covered (details will be supplied) |
| Transport | Up to R10,000, where it applies |
Because the bursary pays almost everything, it is a strong option for students who are not fully covered by other programs.
Eligible Programs
You must be studying a DSAC‑approved heritage‑related program. These categories and examples include:
- Heritage & Cultural Sciences – Heritage and Museum Studies, Curatorship, Conservation, Preventive Conservation (Postgrad)
- Anthropology & Archaeology – Physical & Biological Anthropology, Archaeology (including Maritime & Underwater), Digital Archaeology, Maritime Archaeology
- Geography & Earth Sciences – Geography, Geomatic Sciences, Cartography (Postgrad), GIS (Postgrad), Palaeontology
- Information, Records & Archival Sciences – Library and Information Science, Archives and Records Management, Digitisation of Heritage Resources
- Indigenous Knowledge & Social Sciences – Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), History, International Studies, IKS preservation programmes
If your field is not on this list, your application will not be accepted.
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet all of the following requirements to apply:
- South African citizen
- 40 years old or younger
- Full‑time student
- Minimum 65 % academic average
- Enrolled in a heritage‑related qualification at a DHET‑accredited institution
- Not receiving another bursary
- Not fully employed earning more than R130,000 per year
- If you work part‑time, provide certified proof of income
All documents must be certified and not older than three months.
Required Documents
Submit every item below with a certified copy:
- South African ID
- Provisional acceptance or registration for 2026
- Matric certificate
- Academic transcript or progress report
- Proof of parents’ or guardian’s income
- Latest payslip (if applicable)
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Affidavit confirming salary slip authenticity
Missing or uncertified paperwork will automatically remove your application.
When and Where to Apply
The application deadline is 31 January 2026. The process is online only.
Ready to apply? Click the link below to fill out your application form.
[Apply for the DSAC Heritage Bursary 2026 here](https://dsacevents.dsac.gov.za/dsacHer_Burs_Herit/front_page.php)
If you don’t hear back by 31 March 2026, the application is likely unsuccessful. The department does not accept paper or email submissions.
Quick Checklist to Decide
Ask yourself:
- Am I enrolled in a heritage‑related program for 2026?
- Is my program on the DSAC list above?
- Do I have at least a 65 % average?
- Am I not already receiving a bursary?
If all answers are “yes,” go ahead and apply.
Why This Bursary Matters
This is more than a scholarship; it’s a chance to study a subject you’re passionate about without financial stress. The support covers most of the major costs you’ll face during the academic year, making it easier for you to focus on learning, research, and future work in heritage. Apply before the deadline and see your academic goals become a reality.