Heritage Bursary Programme 2026 – Your Chance to Study South Africa’s Past
If you’re a South African student who loves history, archaeology, museums, or digital heritage, you could get a full scholarship to study these topics. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) is offering the Heritage Bursary Programme for 2026. It covers tuition, books, a laptop, and even living expenses for many students. You’ll learn about things like ancient sites, cultural preservation, and how to use technology to protect heritage.
When and Where
- Application deadline: 31 January 2026
- Funding location: South Africa (some international options are available)
- Who can apply: Full‑time undergraduate or postgraduate students
Who Can Apply
To be considered, you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be 40 years old or younger at the start of 2026.
- Have good grades – at least a 65 % average.
- Be enrolled full time in 2026.
- Be accepted into a heritage‑related program that is recognized by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
- Not work full time.
If you have a part‑time or contract job, your yearly earnings must be below R130 000 and you’ll need to prove this with official documents. - Not be funded by another scholarship or donor.
- Submit all documents (certified copies that are not older than three months).
If you were funded in 2025, you must apply again for 2026.
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary can be worth up to R110 000 per student. It pays:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | 100 % of fees |
| Books | Full cost of required books |
| Laptop or tablet | Up to R10 000 |
| Accommodation | Up to R50 000 (if you need it) |
| Meals | Up to R18 500 (if you need it) |
| Transport | Up to R10 000 (if you need it) |
All money is sent straight to the university or college.
Which Subjects Are Eligible?
In South Africa
- Physical & Biological Anthropology
- Archaeology (including maritime and underwater sites)
- Geography & Geomatic Sciences (GIS, maps)
- Archives & Records Management
- Library and Information Science
- Conservation of Buildings
- Heritage & Museum Studies (management, curating, preservation)
- Paleontology
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)
- History
- Digital Heritage Resources
International Study Options
- Maritime Archaeology & Underwater Cultural Heritage
- Digital Archaeology
- Heritage Conservation & Preservation
If your chosen program is not on the list, your application will be rejected.
Documents You Must Send
All documents must be certified copies that are no older than three months.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Proof of registration or provisional acceptance (no screenshots).
- Certified matric certificate.
- Latest exam results or postgraduate progress report.
- Certified proof of your parents’ or guardian’s household income.
- Certified latest payslip (if you work).
- Proof of disability (if you have one).
- Affidavit confirming that salary slips and income documents are genuine.
Before You Apply
- Make sure you’re accepted for a 2026 heritage‑related program.
- Check that your program is in one of the fields above.
How to Apply
Ready to send in your application?
Apply Online
Only online applications will be considered. Once the deadline passes, no more applications will be taken.
Need Help?
If you have questions about the bursary, reach out to:
- Ms. Reinette Stander – reinettes@dsac.gov.za
- Mr. Maano Muhadi – 012 441 3622 / maanom@dsac.gov.za
Key Dates to Remember
- Apply by: 31 January 2026
- Results announced by: 31 March 2026
- If you don’t hear back by then, your application was not successful.
The Heritage Bursary Programme is a great way to turn your passion for culture and history into a career. Don’t miss the chance to study at top institutions, travel to amazing sites, and help protect South Africa’s rich heritage for future generations. Good luck, and let your curiosity guide you!