The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) invites qualifying South African students to apply for its 2026 bursary programmes, which support studies in heritage-related fields and language studies.
These bursaries aim to develop skills that preserve South Africa’s cultural heritage and promote multilingualism.
1. DSAC Heritage Related Studies Bursary 2026
This bursary supports students studying programmes that contribute to the preservation, research, and promotion of South Africa’s heritage.
Closing Date
31 January 2026
Bursary Value
Up to R110,000 per student, covering:
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Full tuition fees
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Prescribed textbooks
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Electronic devices (up to R10,000)
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Accommodation (up to R50,000)
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Meals (up to R18,500)
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Transport allowance (up to R10,000)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be a South African citizen
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Be 40 years old or younger
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Be registered or accepted for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study
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Have a minimum academic average of 65%
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Not be receiving another bursary
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If employed, earn less than R130,000 per year
Fields of Study Covered
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Archaeology
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Archives and Records Management
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Library and Information Sciences
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Museum Studies
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History
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Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)
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Palaeontology
2. DSAC Language Studies Bursary 2026
The Language Studies Bursary is administered through selected public universities, not directly by DSAC.
Important Information
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DSAC funds selected universities on a three-year cycle (e.g. 2024/25 – 2026/27)
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Students must apply through their university’s language department
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Only institutions approved for the current funding cycle may offer this bursary
Fields Covered
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Translation and Editing
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Interpreting
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Lexicography
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Language Planning
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South African Sign Language (SASL)
How to Apply for the DSAC Bursary 2026
🔹 Heritage Studies Bursary
Applications must be submitted via the official DSAC Online Application Portal.
Required Documents
Submit certified copies (not older than 3 months) of:
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South African ID
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Matric certificate
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Latest academic transcripts
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Proof of 2026 registration or provisional acceptance
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Proof of household income
Application Outcome
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Applicants who do not receive feedback by 31 March 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful
Important Reminder
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
More Bursaries & Opportunities
For more 2026 bursaries, learnerships, internships, and job opportunities, visit: