The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 is currently open for applications and is offered by the Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure to South African students pursuing full-time studies in selected engineering and built environment fields. Applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 April 2026 and close at midnight on 31 August 2026.
The bursary is available only for studies at selected Higher Education Institutions in the Western Cape and provides comprehensive support that includes tuition fees, prescribed books and materials, support programmes, and accommodation and meals or transport costs. However, the programme is offered on a work-back basis, meaning successful bursars may be required to work for the public service and/or partnered companies after completing their studies.
| Closing date | 31 August 2026 at midnight |
| Provider | Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure |
| Programme | Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Study level | Degree or Diploma |
| Fields | Engineering and Built Environment disciplines |
| Institutions | CPUT, UCT and Stellenbosch University |
| Funding | Tuition, prescribed books and materials, support programmes, accommodation and meals or transport |
| Status | OPEN — Apply for 2027 |
🟢 STATUS: MASAKH’iSIZWE BURSARY 2027 OPEN
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 31 August 2026 at midnight
Academic year: 2027
Application status: Open — applications currently being accepted
Looking for other bursaries you can apply for now? View General Bursaries still open.
Important: The official Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System states that applications for the 2027 academic year close at midnight on 31 August 2026 and that no late applications will be considered. Make sure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline.
Table of Contents
- Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 – Quick Overview
- Is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 Open?
- What Is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
- Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Fields of Study
- Which Universities Can I Study At?
- Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Requirements
- What Does the Bursary Cover?
- Does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Have a Work-Back Requirement?
- Documents Required
- Student Support and Development
- How to Apply
- Closing Date
- Contact Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 Open?
Yes. The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 is currently open for applications.
According to the official Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System, applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 April 2026 and close at midnight on 31 August 2026. The system specifically warns that no late applications will be considered.
The Western Cape Government also currently directs applicants to the Masakh’iSizwe online application system and confirms the 31 August closing date.
If you intend to apply, do not only complete the application form. Make sure you have obtained or applied for acceptance at one of the eligible institutions and have all the compulsory supporting documents ready before submitting your application.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 – Quick Summary
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary provider | Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure |
| Programme | Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Application status | Open |
| Opening date | 1 April 2026 |
| Closing date | 31 August 2026 at midnight |
| Study level | Degree or Diploma |
| Study areas | Engineering and Built Environment |
| Eligible institutions | CPUT, UCT and Stellenbosch University |
| Application method | Online |
| Work-back requirement | Yes, subject to the bursary agreement and placement requirements |
What Is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
Masakh’iSizwe means “Let’s Build the Nation” and the programme was established by the Western Cape Government in 2006. It was created to help address shortages of skilled professionals in engineering, the built environment and other infrastructure-related disciplines.
The programme provides external bursaries to students undertaking full-time degree or diploma studies at Higher Education Institutions in the Western Cape. The Western Cape Government says that the fields supported are linked to engineering, the built environment, transport and other disciplines that the Department of Infrastructure considers scarce and critical.
Unlike a bursary that simply pays university costs, Masakh’iSizwe also incorporates student support, professional development, experiential learning and opportunities for workplace exposure. The programme is intended to help develop graduates who can contribute to the infrastructure sector.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Fields of Study
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary supports a range of qualifications in the engineering and built environment fields. The current official programme information lists the following disciplines:
- Property Studies
- City and Regional Planning
- Quantity Surveying
- Architecture
- Construction / Construction Management
- Civil Engineering
- Geomatics
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Mechanical Engineering
The Western Cape Government’s broader programme description also refers to electrical and/or electronic engineering and says that other disciplines may be considered where the Department of Infrastructure identifies them as scarce and critical.
Important: Do not assume that every engineering qualification is automatically funded. The bursary system states that the number of bursaries awarded depends on the Department’s priority study fields and the funds available. Always check the current application information for your specific qualification.
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering is one of the core disciplines supported by Masakh’iSizwe. Students interested in roads, bridges, buildings, water infrastructure and other civil infrastructure may therefore find this programme particularly relevant.
Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineering is included among the programme’s supported fields, with the current bursary system specifically referring to Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current).
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering is another discipline listed by the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme.
Architecture and Built Environment
The programme is not restricted to engineering. Architecture, Construction, Quantity Surveying, Property Studies, Geomatics and City and Regional Planning are also included within the built environment disciplines.
Which Universities Can I Study At With the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is not available at every university in South Africa. The current programme information states that applicants can apply for the bursary at the following three institutions:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Stellenbosch University
The official Masakh’iSizwe page specifically states that students can only apply for the bursary at these institutions.
Applicants should therefore apply for acceptance at the relevant university before completing their bursary application. The bursary system specifically instructs applicants to apply for acceptance at Stellenbosch University, UCT and/or CPUT.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Requirements
To be considered for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027, applicants must satisfy the programme’s minimum entry criteria. The official bursary system states that failure to satisfy all the requirements will result in the application not being considered.
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be accepted at, or intending to study at, Stellenbosch University, University of Cape Town or Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
- You must be studying or intending to study full-time.
- Your qualification must be a degree or diploma in an eligible engineering or built environment field.
- Your studies must be undertaken at a qualifying Higher Education Institution in the Western Cape.
The programme gives preference, although not exclusively, to persons with disabilities, financially disadvantaged learners, female learners and applicants from the Western Cape, particularly those living outside the Cape Metro.
Preference does not mean that applicants outside these groups are automatically excluded. It means that these groups are prioritised when bursaries are awarded.
What Does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Cover?
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is a comprehensive study-support programme. The current official application system lists the following expenses and services:
| Benefit | What the programme states |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Covered by the bursary programme |
| Prescribed books and materials | All prescribed books and materials |
| Support programmes | Academic and other student support programmes |
| Accommodation and meals | Accommodation and meals, or transport costs |
These benefits are confirmed by the official Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System.
The programme should therefore not be described simply as a tuition-only bursary. It provides several forms of support intended to help students complete their qualifications successfully.
Does Masakh’iSizwe pay for accommodation?
Yes. The current bursary information states that accommodation and meals, or transport costs, are covered. Applicants who do not reside at home are instructed to apply for on-campus student accommodation.
Does Masakh’iSizwe provide books?
Yes. The bursary system states that it covers all prescribed books and materials.
Does Masakh’iSizwe provide a laptop?
Applicants should not assume that a laptop is included. The current Masakh’iSizwe information does not list a laptop or computer among the standard benefits. The programme’s FAQ also states that expensive equipment such as computers, cameras or specialised software is generally not covered, although exceptional cases may be considered on their merits.
Does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Have a Work-Back Requirement?
Yes. This is an important condition that applicants should understand before accepting the bursary.
The Masakh’iSizwe programme is offered on a work-back basis. The 2027 programme information states that bursars may be required to work in the public service and/or partnered companies for one year for every year they received a bursary.
The exact placement arrangements are subject to the bursary agreement and the Department’s requirements. The programme’s FAQ explains that if the Department requires a graduate’s services, the graduate is obliged to work for the period corresponding to the bursary support. If the Department does not require the graduate’s services, the graduate may be released from the obligation.
This means that applicants should consider the work-back condition carefully before accepting the bursary.
What Student Support Does Masakh’iSizwe Provide?
Masakh’iSizwe provides support beyond paying university expenses. The Western Cape Government says the programme provides support services and learning opportunities, including internships, while also working to secure employment opportunities for graduates.
The programme’s student-support information includes mentoring and academic support designed to help bursars adjust to university life and cope with the academic demands of Higher Education. Support can include tutorial assistance and guidance for students who need help adapting to tertiary study.
Workshops and events
Successful applicants are required to participate in certain programme activities during their studies. The current bursary system states that there will be weekends when bursars are required to attend workshops, events and meetings.
Outreach programmes
Bursars are also required to participate in outreach programmes as part of the programme’s broader development activities.
Academic experiential training
The programme also requires bursars to undertake academic experiential training on some weekends. Applicants should therefore understand that receiving the bursary comes with participation obligations in addition to academic study.
Documents Required for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary
The official Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System provides a specific list of compulsory supporting documents. Applicants should prepare these documents before starting the online application.
Compulsory documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your parent(s) or guardian(s)’ ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest results
- Certified copy of your academic record at the Higher Education Institution, where applicable
- Full course outline or prospectus
- Estimation of study cost
- Proof of registration or application at the Higher Education Institution
- Salary slips of both parents, guardian or spouse, or an affidavit supporting your financial status
- Proof of home address
- Letter of motivation
These documents are listed by the official Masakh’iSizwe application system.
Additional documents where applicable
- Proof of financial aid
- Proof of existing debt
- Medical proof of disability
- SAPS Police Clearance / criminal record document
Not every applicant will need to submit the additional documents. They apply where relevant to the applicant’s circumstances.
Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Make sure that every compulsory document required by the application system has been uploaded before submitting your application.
How to Apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027
Applications are submitted online through the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System. The Western Cape Government’s official bursary page directs applicants to the online application system.
Step 1: Apply to an eligible university
First make sure you have applied for acceptance at the relevant partner Higher Education Institution: Stellenbosch University, University of Cape Town or Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
The Masakh’iSizwe application system specifically instructs applicants to apply for acceptance at these institutions before submitting the bursary application.
Step 2: Check that your field is eligible
Confirm that your intended qualification falls within one of the fields supported by the programme. The current list includes engineering and built environment disciplines such as Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current), Architecture, Construction, Quantity Surveying, Geomatics, Property Studies and City and Regional Planning.
Step 3: Prepare the supporting documents
Prepare your certified identification documents, academic records, university application or registration evidence, financial documents, proof of address, motivation letter and other documents relevant to your circumstances.
Step 4: Complete the online application
Complete the Masakh’iSizwe online application form accurately. If you are applying to more than one university or for more than one study discipline at the same university, note that separate applications must be submitted for each application.
Step 5: Upload all required documents
Upload all compulsory documents requested by the application system. Check that your files are clear, readable and correctly attached before submitting.
Step 6: Submit before the closing date
Submit your completed application before midnight on 31 August 2026. The official application system states that no late applications will be considered.
Apply Online for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027
Application warning: Do not wait until the final hours of the application period. An incomplete application will not be considered, and the official system does not accept late applications.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 Closing Date
The closing date for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 is 31 August 2026 at midnight.
Applications opened on 1 April 2026. The official application system confirms the full 2027 application window as 1 April to 31 August 2026.
There is no reason to wait until the final day. Applicants need time to obtain certified documents, university application evidence, financial documents and other supporting information.
The official system explicitly states that no late applications will be considered.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Contact Details
If you need clarification about the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme or the application process, you can contact the Department of Infrastructure’s Masakh’iSizwe Office directly.
- Telephone: 021 483 0964
- Telephone: 021 483 9545
- Email: DoIBursary@westerncape.gov.za
- Address: 23rd Floor, 9 Lower Burg Street, The Box, Cape Town, 8001
These contact details are published on the official Masakh’iSizwe Bursary System.
What Happens After You Apply?
Submitting an application does not automatically mean that you will receive a bursary. The Department determines the number of bursaries awarded according to its priority study fields and the funds available.
The official application system also provides an important indication about unsuccessful applications: if an applicant receives no response by 12 February 2027, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
Applicants should therefore keep copies of their submitted application and supporting documents and monitor the contact details used in their application.
Important Conditions Before Accepting the Bursary
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary comes with responsibilities in addition to financial support. Applicants should understand these conditions before applying.
- You must study full-time in an eligible qualification.
- You must study at one of the programme’s approved institutions.
- You must participate in required workshops, events, meetings and outreach activities.
- You may be required to undertake academic experiential training.
- Applicants who do not live at home are expected to apply for on-campus accommodation.
- If you are employed by the Department after graduation, you may be required to complete a professional development programme for professional registration.
- The bursary is offered on a work-back basis.
These conditions are part of what makes Masakh’iSizwe different from an ordinary bursary that only provides financial assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027
Is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 open?
Yes. Applications for the 2027 academic year are currently open. The application period runs from 1 April until midnight on 31 August 2026.
What is the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 closing date?
The closing date is 31 August 2026 at midnight. The official application system states that no late applications will be considered.
Which fields does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary cover?
The programme currently lists Property Studies, City and Regional Planning, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Construction, Civil Engineering, Geomatics, Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current) and Mechanical Engineering. Other disciplines may be considered where the Department identifies them as scarce and critical.
Which universities accept the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
The bursary can be taken up at Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University.
Does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary cover full tuition?
Yes. The official bursary system lists tuition fees among the expenses covered by the programme.
Does Masakh’iSizwe cover accommodation?
Yes. The programme covers accommodation and meals, or transport costs. Students who do not reside at home are instructed to apply for on-campus student accommodation.
Does Masakh’iSizwe provide a laptop?
Not as a standard listed benefit. The programme’s FAQ states that expensive equipment such as computers, cameras and software is generally not covered, although exceptional cases may be considered.
Who can apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
South African citizens who are accepted at or intend to study full-time at CPUT, UCT or Stellenbosch University in an eligible degree or diploma may apply. Preference is given, but not limited, to financially disadvantaged learners, women, persons with disabilities and applicants from the Western Cape, particularly those outside the Cape Metro.
Does the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary have a work-back requirement?
Yes. The programme is offered on a work-back basis. The current programme information states that bursars may be required to work in the public service and/or partnered companies for one year for every year they received bursary funding.
What documents are required for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?
Compulsory documents include a certified applicant ID, parent or guardian IDs, Matric certificate or latest results, academic record where applicable, course outline or prospectus, estimated study costs, proof of registration or university application, financial documents, proof of address and a motivation letter. Additional documents may be required depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
Can I apply for more than one university?
Yes, but the official application system states that separate applications must be submitted for different universities. Separate applications are also required if you apply for more than one study discipline at the same university.
What happens if I do not receive a response?
The current Masakh’iSizwe application system states that if no response has been received by 12 February 2027, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
What happens if I fail a course while receiving the bursary?
The programme’s FAQ explains that continued funding depends on the circumstances and the bursary contract. The Department may withhold further payment until failed modules have been completed at the bursar’s own cost, although individual cases may be considered on merit.
What happens if I change my qualification?
You should not change your course without permission from the Department. The programme’s FAQ states that changing a course without approval can result in the bursar being required to repay funds paid towards academic, residence and other covered costs.
What happens if I discontinue my studies?
The official FAQ states that a bursar who discontinues their studies may be required to repay the full amount paid by the Department. If a student needs to interrupt their studies temporarily, they can apply to the Department in writing and the case may be considered on its merits.
Other Engineering and Built Environment Bursaries
If you are studying engineering, construction, architecture, quantity surveying or another infrastructure-related field, you may also want to explore other opportunities on Grads24.
View Engineering Bursaries South Africa
You can also browse our General Bursaries and Scholarships for additional funding opportunities.
Final Advice for Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 Applicants
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 is currently open, but the application window is limited. Applications opened on 1 April 2026 and close at midnight on 31 August 2026.
If you are interested in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Geomatics, Construction, Property Studies or City and Regional Planning, first make sure that your qualification and university are eligible.
Do not overlook the programme’s supporting-document requirements. In particular, prepare your certified identification documents, academic results, proof of university application or registration, financial documents, proof of address and motivation letter before you begin the online application.
Most importantly, understand the work-back obligation before accepting the bursary. Masakh’iSizwe is designed not only to fund students but also to develop professionals who can contribute to the Western Cape’s infrastructure needs.
Last verified: 20 August 2026
We monitor bursary information and update this page when new application details become available. Applicants should always verify the latest requirements, application instructions and closing date with the Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure before submitting an application.