The national Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially launched its popular DSAC Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. It caters for both the undergraduate and postgraduate students in selected fields of study. If you are a talented South African with a passion for heritage, creative industries, sport sciences, or cultural studies, this is one of the most generous government bursaries available today.
Why the DSAC Bursary Stands Out
Unlike many corporate or private bursaries, the DSAC Bursary is specifically designed to develop scarce and critical skills that will preserve and grow South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, creative economy, and sporting excellence. Successful students become part of a national talent pipeline that feeds directly into museums, theatres, sport federations, archives, and community arts centres.
Expenses Covered by the DSAC Bursary
The DSAC Bursary is a full-cost bursary that includes:
- 100% of tuition fees (up to the university capped amount)
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- On-campus or accredited private accommodation
- Meals or a monthly living allowance
- A once-off laptop allowance (for new recipients)
Postgraduate students (Honours, Masters, and Doctoral) also qualify for research costs where applicable.
Fields of Study Supported by the DSAC Bursary
DSAC has identified the following priority disciplines (undergraduate and postgraduate levels):
Heritage & Museums
- Heritage Studies
- Museum Studies / Museology
- Conservation of the Built Environment
- Archaeology (specialisations welcome)
- Anthropology
Language & Literature
- Indigenous African Languages (all official languages)
- Translation and Interpreting Studies
- Linguistics
Creative & Performing Arts
- Jewellery Design & Manufacture
- Fashion Design
- Graphic Design
- Fine Arts
- Music (all genres)
- Dance and Choreography
- Drama and Theatre Studies
- Film and Television Production
Sport & Recreation
- Sport Science
- Sport Management
- Sport Coaching
- Recreation Studies
Cultural Policy & Management
- Arts Administration
- Cultural Policy and Management
- Archives and Records Management
DSAC Bursary Programme Eligibility – Who Can Apply?
You must meet ALL of these minimum requirements:
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Aged 35 years or younger (undergraduate) / no age limit for postgraduate
- Accepted or intending to register at a recognised South African public university, university of technology, or TVET college in 2026
- Household income not exceeding R600 000 per annum (combined gross income of parents/guardians)
- Strong academic record:
- Undergrad: Minimum 50% average in Matric (APS of 23+ preferred)
- Postgraduate: Minimum 60% average in previous degree
- Not in receipt of another full-cost government bursary (e.g., NSFAS recipients may apply for top-up funding)
Special consideration is given to:
- Students from rural and underdeveloped areas
- Persons with disabilities
- Previously disadvantaged individuals
How to Submit Your Application
Applications are strictly online through the DSAC portal:
Apply here → DSAC Bursary Application 2026
Required Supporting Documents (upload clear certified copies):
- ID document
- Matric certificate or latest results
- Academic transcripts (if currently studying)
- Proof of university acceptance / provisional acceptance for 2026
- Parents’/guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit if unemployed, SASSA letter, etc.)
- Motivational letter explaining your passion for your chosen field
Closing Date
Friday, 31 January 2026 at 23:59 No late or hand-delivered applications will be accepted.
Need Assistance?
Email: bursaries@dsac.gov.za Call centre: 0800 777 200 (toll-free) Official website: www.dsac.gov.za
Grads24.co.za wishes every applicant the very best – this is your chance to turn your talent into a funded qualification and a meaningful career in South Africa’s cultural and sporting future!
Article last updated: 29 November 2025.