The Department of Human Settlements has officially opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Programme, inviting qualifying South African youth who wish to pursue studies in Human Settlements–related fields.
This scholarship is aimed at supporting academically strong but financially needy undergraduate students who want to build careers that contribute directly to housing delivery, urban development, and spatial transformation in South Africa.
Applications open: 22 December 2025
Closing date: 07 January 2026
About the Human Settlements Scholarship Programme
The Department of Human Settlements Scholarship Programme is a fully funded academic support initiative designed to develop scarce skills in the built environment and planning sectors.
The programme focuses on:
- Youth development
- Transformation in the built environment
- Addressing skills shortages in housing and settlement planning
- Supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds
Fields of Study Funded
Funding is available for studies in the following Human Settlements–related disciplines:
- 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
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 Human Settlements Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have exceptional Matric results
- Must be an undergraduate student
- Must not have completed any previous tertiary qualification
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must be a youth applicant
What the Scholarship Covers
The Human Settlements Scholarship covers the following study-related costs:
✅ Covered Costs
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and course material
- University residence accommodation
- Meals
❌ Not Covered
- Monthly stipend or allowance
- Transport costs
- Photocopying
- Bridging courses
- Membership affiliations
- Laundry services
Application Requirements
Applicants must download, complete, and submit the official application form together with all supporting documents.
Required Documents
- Completed Human Settlements Scholarship Application Form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of June/December Matric results
- Proof of residence
- Provisional acceptance letter from a recognised higher education institution
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (salary slip or affidavit)
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
⚠️ Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Step 1: Download the Application Form
📄 Download here:
https://www.dhs.gov.za/sites/default/files/SCHOLARSHIP/Scholarship%20Application%20Form%20_1.pdf
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Email the completed application form and all supporting documents to:
🗓 Deadline: 07 January 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Key Dates at a Glance
| Item | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 22 December 2025 |
| Applications Close | 07 January 2026 |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
Final Advice for Applicants
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues
- Ensure all documents are certified and clearly scanned
- Use a professional email subject line (e.g. Human Settlements Scholarship 2026 Application – Full Name)
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before sending