There is a limited‑time chance for Black South African women studying architecture to receive a bursary for the 2027 academic year – and the deadline is fast approaching. The MacMillan Foundation will fund one year of postgraduate study, helping you overcome financial barriers right now.
What the opportunity is
The MacMillan Foundation is offering a bursary that covers tuition fees for a postgraduate architecture degree at any accredited South African university for the 2027 academic year. The money is paid directly to the university after you submit proof of registration and a tax invoice.
Eligibility – Who can apply
- South African citizen, with a certified copy of a valid ID.
- Black, as defined by the B‑BBEE codes.
- Female.
- Must be able to complete the qualification before turning 35 (based on expected completion date).
- Enrolled or intending to enrol in an accredited postgraduate architecture programme.
- Strong academic record (no minimum average stated).
- No criminal record.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- All requirements must be met before the closing date.
What you gain
- Funding for one academic year’s tuition fees.
- Direct payment to your university, reducing your personal out‑of‑pocket costs.
- An opportunity to advance in a profession where Black women are under‑represented.
- Potential to build a professional network through the foundation’s support.
How to apply – Step by step
- Download the official application form: MacMillan Foundation Bursary Application Form 2027 (PDF).
- Complete all sections of the form and sign where required.
- Gather the required supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Latest academic results.
- Proof of current university account balance and fee status.
- One recommendation letter from a lecturer.
- Declarations of any existing debt, financial independence, and other relevant statements.
- Optional: CV and architecture portfolio (if you have one).
- Compress all files so the total size does not exceed 10 MB. Do not password‑protect the PDFs.
- Compose an email with the subject line MacMillan Foundation Bursary 2027.
- Attach the completed form and all supporting documents.
- Send the email to both addresses:
- admin@snapp.org.za (primary)
- admin@macmillanfoundation.co.za (secondary)
- Ensure the email is sent before 01 November 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
Tips to strengthen your application
- Request your lecturer’s recommendation early; give them enough time to write a detailed letter.
- Proofread every document to avoid spelling or formatting errors.
- Clearly state your intended university, programme, registration date, and expected completion date in the form.
- Provide honest, detailed financial information – vague statements may be rejected.
- Keep a copy of the email and all attachments for your records.
- Submit a test email to yourself first to confirm attachment size and readability.
Next steps
If your application is successful, you will be contacted by 03 December 2026. At that time you will need to sign a bursary agreement and provide final proof of registration and the university’s tax invoice.
For any questions, email admin@macmillanfoundation.co.za or call 012 665 0937. Include your full name and mention “MacMillan Foundation Bursary 2027” in the subject line.
Take action now – the deadline is only weeks away, and this support could be the key to completing your architecture degree.
