DSAC Heritage Bursary 2026: Full-Cost Support for Heritage Studies

Apply for the DSAC Heritage Bursary 2026! Full-cost support for heritage studies. Deadline: 31 Jan 2026. Don't miss out!

Published 13 January 2026
Closing Date Closed
Company
Various Organizations

Unlock a world of opportunities with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Heritage Bursary for 2026. This prestigious full-cost bursary is available to undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing heritage-related qualifications at recognized South African public institutions. Don’t miss out on this chance to advance your education and career in heritage studies—applications close on 31 January 2026.

About the Opportunity

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is committed to promoting, protecting, and preserving South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. With a focus on strengthening museums and archives, protecting cultural and natural heritage, and promoting indigenous knowledge systems, DSAC is dedicated to training the next generation of heritage professionals. The DSAC Heritage Bursary Programme supports this mission by providing financial assistance to talented students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to pursue rare and specialized heritage qualifications.

Closing Dates

Applications for the DSAC Heritage Bursary close on 31 January 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Bursary recipients are expected to excel in their studies and contribute to the field of heritage and cultural sciences. Successful applicants will be part of a community dedicated to preserving and promoting South Africa’s cultural heritage.

Requirements/Qualifications

To be eligible for the DSAC Bursary, applicants must:

  • Be South African citizens
  • Be 40 years or younger
  • Be registered as full-time students
  • Have a minimum 65% academic average
  • Be studying a heritage-related qualification
  • Not be funded by another bursary
  • Not be fully employed earning more than R130,000 per year
  • Be studying at a DHET-accredited institution

Benefits

The DSAC Bursary covers:

  • Full tuition paid directly to the institution
  • All required textbooks
  • Up to R10,000 for an electronic device
  • Up to R50,000 for accommodation
  • Up to R18,500 for meals
  • Up to R10,000 for transport

This comprehensive financial support is especially valuable for students who do not qualify for NSFAS or need additional financial assistance.

Eligible Fields of Study

The bursary is available for students in the following fields:

  • Heritage & Cultural Sciences
  • Anthropology & Archaeology
  • Geography & Earth Sciences
  • Information, Records & Archival Sciences
  • Indigenous Knowledge & Social Sciences

Applicants must ensure their field of study is listed under DSAC-approved programmes to be considered.