Apply for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursaries 2026. Funding up to R110,000 for heritage, history and arts students
(DSAC) Bursaries 2026 – Overview
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. The DSAC Heritage Bursaries offer rare financial support to South African students studying heritage-related fields, at a time when many arts and humanities programmes remain underfunded.
With applications closing on 31 January 2026, this bursary matters now more than ever for undergraduates and postgraduates planning to continue or begin studies next year.
Why the DSAC Heritage Bursaries Matter in 2026
Heritage studies play a quiet but critical role in South Africa’s future. From preserving indigenous knowledge to digitising historical records, these fields protect stories that might otherwise disappear.
Yet, many students pursuing heritage qualifications face limited funding opportunities compared to science or commerce students. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) bursary programme directly addresses this gap.
Unlike partial funding schemes, the DSAC bursary aims to cover core academic and living costs, making it possible for students to focus on their studies rather than financial survival.
The competition is very high and only 45 to 50 students will be funded nationwide.
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Who Should Consider Applying
The programme is specifically for South African citizens under the age of 40 who are full-time students at institutions accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Applicants must also meet a minimum academic average of 65%, which signals solid but realistic academic expectations.
Importantly, students already funded by other bursaries or donors are not eligible. This ensures that support reaches those with no alternative funding. If you are employed, your annual gross income must not exceed R130,000, and proof of income is mandatory.
This bursary is particularly relevant for students who:
- Are passionate about heritage, history, or conservation
- Come from households with limited financial resources
- Are continuing into postgraduate specialisation
- Were funded by DSAC in 2025 and wish to reapply for 2026
Fields of Study DSAC Will Fund
One of the most common reasons applications are rejected is field mismatch. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) is strict about this, hence they only accept applications for the fields that are listed below.
The DSAC Heritage Bursaries 2026 cover a focused list of disciplines, including:
- Archaeology (including Maritime & Underwater Cultural Heritage)
- Physical and Biological Anthropology
- History
- Palaeontology
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)
- Archives and Records Management
- Library and Information Sciences
- Heritage and Museum Studies (Curatorship, Management, Preservation)
- Conservation of the Built Environment (mainly postgraduate level)
- Digitisation of Heritage Resources
- Geography, Geomatics, Cartography, and GIS (postgraduate focus)
- Digital Archaeology
- International Studies related to heritage
What the Bursary Actually Covers
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) bursary is valued at up to R110,000 per student, with funds paid directly to the institution, not the student.
Coverage includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Electronic device (up to R10,000)
- Accommodation (up to R50,000, where applicable)
- Meals (up to R18,500)
- Transport (up to R10,000)
While this does not always cover every personal expense, it significantly reduces financial pressure, especially for students studying away from home.
Documents That Can Make or Break Your Application
DSAC applications are detail-driven. Missing documents lead to automatic rejection.
Applicants must submit certified copies (not older than three months) of:
- South African ID
- Proof of provisional acceptance or registration for 2026
- Matric certificate and latest academic results
- Proof of household income
- Parents’ or guardians’ payslips
- Income affidavit confirming authenticity
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
Screenshots, unsigned letters, or outdated certifications are not accepted — a common and avoidable mistake.
How and When to Apply
All applications must be submitted online via the official DSAC platform.
Email or hand-delivered applications are not considered.
Closing date: 31 January 2026
If you do not receive feedback by then, the department advises considering the application unsuccessful.
Final Thought
The DSAC Heritage Bursaries 2026 are not flashy or widely advertised but they remain one of the most meaningful funding opportunities for students committed to protecting South Africa’s cultural legacy.
For the right student, this bursary is not just financial aid.
It is a chance to keep history alive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I was funded by DSAC in 2025?
Yes. Previous beneficiaries must reapply for the 2026 academic year.
Does DSAC fund part-time students?
No. Only full-time students qualify.
Is International Studies really included?
Yes, but only where the programme clearly aligns with heritage preservation or cultural studies.
Will I receive the money directly?
No. Funds are paid directly to your institution.
What if my qualification name is slightly different?
If it does not clearly match the listed fields, your application is likely to be rejected.
APPLY Here For the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursaries 2026
Written by Siyanda Ntombela , who tracks government bursaries and youth funding opportunities in South Africa
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