The DSAC Heritage Bursary Programme 2026 is now open for South African students studying heritage-related fields. Covers tuition, books, devices, meals, accommodation and transport. Apply online before 31 January 2026.
DSAC Heritage Bursary Programme 2026 Explained
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has opened applications for the 2026 Heritage Related Studies Bursary Programme. This funding opportunity is aimed at students who want to pursue qualifications that strengthen, preserve and protect South Africa’s heritage sector.
The bursary supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies for the 2026 academic year. It is also open to selected international programmes in specialised heritage disciplines such as archaeology, conservation and digital heritage preservation. This makes it one of the most comprehensive bursary opportunities for students passionate about culture, history, research and preservation.
The programme is offered to full-time students studying at institutions accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Closing date: 31 January 2026.
Why the DSAC Bursary Matters
Heritage-related fields play a vital role in preserving the country’s identity, historical records and cultural assets. However, these programmes are often expensive, and many talented students struggle to access them.
By offering financial support of up to R110 000 per student, DSAC helps to:
- Open doors for academically strong but financially disadvantaged students
- Build national capacity in scarce heritage skills
- Support research, conservation and heritage development
- Strengthen museums, archives, libraries and cultural institutions
- Promote innovation and digital heritage preservation
For students who dream of contributing to South Africa’s cultural future, this bursary provides the pathway to achieve exactly that.
Who Can Apply for the DSAC Bursary 2026?
To qualify, applicants must meet all the following requirements:
General Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be 40 years old or younger
- Must be studying full-time in 2026
- Must have a minimum average of 65%
- Must be accepted or provisionally accepted into a heritage-related qualification
- Must not be employed full-time
- If employed part-time or contract: annual income must not exceed R130 000
- Must not be funded by any other bursary or donor
- Must submit all required certified documents (not older than 3 months)
Important Note
Students who received DSAC funding in 2025 must reapply for 2026.
What the DSAC Bursary Covers
The bursary provides support valued up to R110 000 per student, including:
- Tuition fees: 100% of study costs
- Books: full cost of prescribed books
- Electronic device: up to R10 000
- Accommodation: up to R50 000 (where applicable)
- Meals: up to R18 500 (where applicable)
- Transport: up to R10 000 (where applicable)
All funds are paid directly to the institution.
Fields of Study Supported in 2026
Local Study Fields (South Africa)
The bursary supports full-time studies in the following areas:
- Physical and Biological Anthropology
- Archaeology (including Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage)
- Geography and Geomatic Sciences (GIS, Cartography)
- Archives and Records Management
- Library and Information Science
- Conservation of the Built Environment
- Heritage and Museum Studies
- Palaeontology
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)
- History
- Digitisation of Heritage Resources
International Study Components
Support may be provided for specialised programmes in:
- Maritime Archaeology
- Underwater Cultural Heritage
- Digital Archaeology
- Heritage Conservation and Preservation
Only applications aligned to the approved fields will be considered.
Documents You Must Submit
All certified copies must be issued within the last 3 months. Your application must include:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Proof of registration or provisional acceptance
- Certified Matric certificate
- Latest academic results or postgraduate progress report
- Certified proof of parents’ or guardian’s household income
- Certified payslip if the applicant is employed
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Affidavit confirming authenticity of income documents
Missing documents will result in disqualification.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for the DSAC Heritage Bursary Programme 2026
Apply Online
Only online applications will be accepted.
No late applications will be considered.
Need Assistance?
Contact DSAC directly:
Email: reinettes@dsac.gov.za
Phone: 012 441 3622 / maanom@dsac.gov.za
Conclusion
The DSAC Heritage Bursary Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for students who want to build their future in heritage studies. With full financial support, specialised study options and a strong commitment to developing the heritage sector, this bursary gives students the chance to focus on their studies without financial pressure. If you’re passionate about history, culture, archives, archaeology, preservation or digital heritage, this bursary is designed to support your career path. Make sure you submit a complete online application before the closing date.
