The Department of Human Settlements (DHS) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Programme, offering funding support to qualifying South African youth who wish to pursue studies in Human Settlements–related fields.
- Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 Application Dates
- Who Should Apply?
- Eligibility Criteria
- Application Requirements
- Fields of Study Funded by the Scholarship
- What the Human Settlements Scholarship Covers
- What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
- Download Application Form
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Contact Details – Department of Human Settlements
This scholarship is aimed at academically strong learners who require financial assistance and plan to study towards built environment and planning qualifications at recognised institutions of higher learning.
Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 Application Dates
- Opening date: 22 December 2025
- Closing date: 7 January 2026
Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Who Should Apply?
The Department of Human Settlements is inviting prospective students interested in Human Settlements–related studies to apply for the 2026 academic year.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Human Settlements Scholarship Programme, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Have exceptional matric results
- Be youth or undergraduate students
- Not have a previous tertiary qualification
- Demonstrate a need for financial support
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Completed application form (printed from the Department of Human Settlements website)
- Certified copy of your South African Identity Document
- Certified copy of June/December Matric results
- Proof of residence
- Provisional or acceptance letter from a recognised institution of higher learning
- Proof of financial status, such as:
- Parent or guardian’s salary slip
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ identity documents
Ensure that all documents are clear, certified, and submitted in full to avoid disqualification.
Fields of Study Funded by the Scholarship
Funding is available for the following Human Settlements–related qualifications:
- Architecture / Architectural Technology
- Construction Management / Construction Science
- Civil Engineering
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- Town and Regional Planning / Urban and Rural Studies
- Quantity Surveying / Land Surveying / Building Surveying
What the Human Settlements Scholarship Covers
The scholarship covers the following costs:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and course material
- Student residence
- Meals
What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
The following expenses are not covered:
- Monthly stipend or allowance
- Transport costs
- Photocopying
- Bridging courses
- Membership affiliations
- Laundry services
Download Application Form
Application forms must be obtained from the Department of Human Settlements website.
For more information and full application details, visit:
www.dhs.gov.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Human Settlements Scholarship renewable each year?
Yes. The scholarship is usually renewed annually, provided the student maintains good academic performance and meets the department’s progression requirements.
Does the scholarship require a work-back or service contract?
In most cases, successful applicants are required to enter into a service or work-back agreement with the Department of Human Settlements after completing their studies.
Can TVET college students apply for this scholarship?
No. The Human Settlements Scholarship is intended for studies at recognised universities and universities of technology, not TVET colleges.
Can postgraduate students apply?
No. This scholarship is aimed at first-time undergraduate students only. Applicants with previous tertiary qualifications are not eligible.
Can I apply for NSFAS and the Human Settlements Scholarship at the same time?
Yes, you may apply for both. However, if awarded the Human Settlements Scholarship, you cannot receive funding from two government bursaries simultaneously.
Can I apply if I am already registered at a university?
Yes, provided you are a first-time undergraduate student, meet the academic requirements, and have not previously obtained a tertiary qualification.
The Department of Human Settlements Scholarship Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for students pursuing careers in the built environment and human settlements sector.
Applicants are encouraged to submit complete applications before the closing date to avoid disqualification. Ensure that all required documents are certified, accurate, and submitted on time.
Contact Details – Department of Human Settlements
If you need assistance or have questions about the scholarship application process, you can contact the Department of Human Settlements directly:
E-mail: info@dhs.gov.za
Call Centre: 080 014 6873