Are you dreaming of a career designing roads, bridges, or the next city skyline? The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme opens its doors for 2027, and you have just a few months to apply before the deadline closes on 31 August 2026.
What the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme is
This is a government‑funded bursary run by the Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure. It supports South African students who want to study engineering, construction or other built‑environment subjects at selected Western Cape universities.
Who can apply (Eligibility)
- South African citizens only
- Full‑time study for an approved degree or diploma
- Accepted at one of the three approved institutions:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Stellenbosch University
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Enrolled in an approved field of study (see list below)
Preference may be given to applicants from the Western Cape, those living outside the Cape Metro, people with disabilities, financially disadvantaged students, and female candidates. Preference does not exclude any other eligible applicants.
Fields of Study that qualify
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Architecture
- Construction
- Quantity Surveying
- Property Studies
- City and Regional Planning
- Geomatics
- Other approved built‑environment disciplines (if applicable)
What you will gain
Successful bursary holders receive a comprehensive package, not just tuition cover. The benefit package can include:
- Full tuition fees
- Required textbooks and study materials
- Student support programmes
- Accommodation and meals (or transport where relevant)
- Professional development and experiential training
- Limited exposure to real infrastructure projects during your studies
After graduation, many bursars are offered structured training with the Department of Infrastructure, helping them move toward professional registration.
How to apply – step by step
- Apply for admission to UCT, Stellenbosch University or CPUT for a qualifying programme.
- Gather required documents (see the list below). Ensure every document is a certified copy.
- Write a motivation letter that explains why you chose this career, what inspires you, and how you will give back to your community.
- Complete the online bursary application before 31 August 2026 midnight: Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Application Portal.
- If you are applying to more than one university or to different study areas, submit a separate application for each.
- Wait for a response. If you have not heard back by 12 February 2027, consider the application unsuccessful.
Documents you must submit (certified copies)
- South African ID (you and your parent/guardian)
- Matric certificate or latest school results
- Academic record from your chosen higher‑education institution
- Full course outline or prospectus
- Estimated study costs
- Proof of registration or acceptance at the university
- Salary slips or an affidavit showing household income (parents/guardians or spouse)
- Proof of residential address
- Motivation letter
Additional documents may be required if applicable:
- Proof of existing financial aid or debt
- Medical certificate for disability
- SAPS police clearance
- Any other supporting paperwork requested by the Department
Tips to improve your chances
- Start early. Begin gathering certified documents while your university application is still being processed.
- Keep digital copies. Save PDFs of every certified document, your motivation letter, and proof of university acceptance in one folder.
- Proofread everything. Check for missing signatures, blank pages, or expired certifications before uploading.
- Make your motivation letter personal. Avoid generic statements like “I need money.” Instead, describe your passion for infrastructure, how your studies will help your community, and your long‑term career goals.
- Follow the deadline. Late submissions are not accepted.
- Check the preference criteria. If you belong to a preferred group (e.g., from the Western Cape or a female applicant), highlight this in your letter.
Next steps
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is highly competitive because it offers full financial support and valuable professional exposure. Take the first step today: secure admission at one of the three approved universities, organise your certified documents, and begin drafting a thoughtful motivation letter. With careful preparation, you can submit a strong application before the 31 August 2026 deadline.
