The Department of Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications from South African students who want to study careers that help design, build, and manage sustainable communities.
This fully funded scholarship is aimed at first-time undergraduate students with strong academic results who need financial support to pursue degrees in the built environment. If you dream of shaping cities, housing developments, and public spaces, this opportunity could help you study without the burden of tuition and accommodation costs.
Application deadline: 7 January 2026
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship is strictly available for qualifications related to human settlements and urban development, including:
- Architecture and Architectural Technology
- Construction Management / Construction Science
- Civil Engineering
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Town and Regional Planning / Urban and Rural Studies
- Quantity Surveying
- Land Surveying
- Building Surveying
Only students enrolled in these fields will be considered.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Department of Human Settlements Scholarship 2026, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have excellent Grade 12 academic results
- Be a first-time entering university student
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be under the age of 35
- Have provisional acceptance at a recognised South African university for 2026
Applicants who do not meet every requirement will not be considered.
Related Opportunity: Nestlé South Africa Future Talent Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded Bursary
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship is fully funded and includes:
- Registration fees
- Full tuition costs
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- University residence accommodation
- Meals provided through the institution
What Is Not Covered
The scholarship does not pay for:
- Monthly living allowances
- Travel or transport costs
- Printing or photocopying
- Additional short courses
- Student club or society fees
- Laundry or household services
Related Opportunity: Cape Gate Isaac Joffe Fellowship Bursary 2026: Apply Now
Required Documents
All documents must be certified and submitted together. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
- Completed Human Settlements Scholarship Application Form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of June or final Grade 12 results
- Proof of residence in South Africa (utility bill, school letter, or similar)
- Provisional acceptance letter from a recognised university for 2026
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income or financial status
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
How to Apply for the Department of Human Settlements Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Get the official application form from the Department of Human Settlements website.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Email the completed form and all required documents to:
scholarships2026@dhs.gov.za
Use the subject line format:
Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 – Your Full Name
Important Dates
- Applications open: 22 December 2025
- Applications close: 7 January 2026
- Academic year: 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Application Tips
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues
- Ensure all documents are clear, readable, and certified
- Double-check that every required document is attached
- Use professional file names and a clear email subject line
Final Thoughts
The Department of Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 offers a rare chance to study a built-environment degree without worrying about tuition, accommodation, or books. If you are academically strong, financially needy, and passionate about improving housing and cities in South Africa, this scholarship could change your future.
Submit your application before 7 January 2026 to be considered.
Related Opportunities on SETACareers
- SAFRIPOL Community Bursaries 2026 – Engineering Funding for KwaZulu-Natal Students
- GCRA Bursary Programme 2026 – Fully Funded Higher Education in South Africa
- African Rainbow Minerals Bursaries 2026 – Fully Funded Study at UCT & Stellenbosch
- SASSETA Bursaries 2026 for Unemployed Students (Discretionary Grants)
