The Department of Human Settlements invites qualified students to apply for its 2026 Human Settlements Scholarship. The closing date for applications is 7 January 2026.
What is the Human Settlements Scholarship?
The Department of Human Settlements (DHS) has opened its scholarship program for the 2026 academic year. It’s designed to help bright, first‑time university students from South Africa who want to study in fields that shape our built environment and communities.
Key dates
- Applications open: 22 December 2025
- Applications close: 7 January 2026
Because many people want this scholarship, competition will be tight.
Who can apply?
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| South African citizen | You must be a citizen of South Africa |
| Youth applicant | Usually 18 – 30 years old |
| First‑time undergraduate | You have never earned a university degree, diploma or similar |
| Excellent matric results | Your final high‑school grades must be high |
| Proof of financial need | You can show that money is tight for you or your family |
| Accepted at a recognised university | You have a provisional or final offer from a higher‑education institution |
Postgraduate students and people who already hold a degree cannot apply.
Which subjects are covered?
The scholarship only supports studies that help build or manage human settlements. These include:
- Architecture / Architectural Technology
- Construction Management / Construction Science
- Civil Engineering
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- Town & Regional Planning
- Urban and Rural Studies
- Quantity Surveying
- Land Surveying
- Building Surveying
If your chosen course isn’t on the list, the scholarship won’t apply to you.
What the scholarship pays for
| Covered by the scholarship | Examples |
|---|---|
| Registration fees | The one‑time fee you pay when you enrol |
| Full tuition fees | All monthly or yearly tuition payments |
| Required textbooks & materials | Course books and other learning supplies |
| University accommodation | Room and board in on‑campus housing |
| Meals | Food provided by the university, according to its rules |
What it does NOT cover
- Monthly allowance or stipend
- Transportation to and from campus
- Printing or photocopying costs
- Bridging courses or extra qualifications
- Professional association fees
- Laundry or other personal services
You’ll need to plan how to pay for things like travel and everyday living costs.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the application form from the DHS website.
- Fill it out carefully – use neat handwriting or type it clearly.
- Collect all required documents and get them certified (officially signed and dated).
- Submit everything by 7 January 2026.
- Email your application to scholarships2026@dhs.gov.za.
Missing documents or late submissions will mean your application is rejected.
Documents you need
- Completed scholarship form
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your June or December matric results
- Proof of where you live (e.g., utility bill)
- Provisional or final acceptance letter from a university
- Proof of your family’s financial situation (salary slip or affidavit)
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID cards
Make sure each copy is recent and legible.
Quick FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I apply if my university letter is only provisional? | Yes, a provisional acceptance letter is fine. |
| Does the scholarship give a monthly allowance? | No, there is no stipend. |
| Can a TVET student apply? | Only if they are moving into one of the listed undergraduate courses. |
| I already finished a university degree – can I apply? | No, this is for first‑time undergraduates only. |
| Do I need NSFAS to apply? | No, but you must prove you need financial help. |
Career possibilities after the scholarship
Graduates can step into a variety of roles that keep shaping our cities and communities:
- Architect or Architectural Technologist
- Civil Engineer
- Quantity Surveyor
- Town or Regional Planner
- GIS Specialist
- Construction Manager
- Land or Building Surveyor
In the long term, you could work for government bodies, municipalities, property developers, infrastructure companies, or consulting firms. You may also pursue professional registration with bodies like SACAP, ECSA, or SACQSP.
Tips for a strong application
- Apply early – the earlier you submit, the better.
- Send all documents – missing paperwork will hurt your chances.
- Choose a funded subject – only the listed fields count.
- Be honest about your finances – this is a key part of the review.
- Stay ready for follow‑up – the department may ask extra questions.
A well‑prepared application shows you are serious and ready for the next step.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Human Settlements Scholarship can give you the money you need to focus on your studies and start a career that shapes how we live. Even if you don’t win this time, the process of applying will give you valuable experience for future funding opportunities.
Closing date: 7 January 2026.
Apply now and turn your academic dreams into reality!
Official source: Visit the DHS website at www.dhs.gov.za for the most up‑to‑date information. All details above are for general guidance – always check the official site before sending personal data or paying any fees.
