2026 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME: Closing Date, Requirements, and Funded Fields
Department of Human Settlements Scholarship Programme 2026: Full Application Guide for South African Students
The Department of Human Settlements (DHS) Scholarship Programme 2026 is now officially open, offering funding support to qualifying South African youth who wish to pursue studies in Human Settlements–related fields. This government-funded scholarship is aimed at developing scarce and critical skills needed to support housing delivery, urban development, and infrastructure planning in South Africa.
With applications opening in December 2025 and closing in January 2026, this scholarship presents a time-sensitive opportunity for matriculants and first-time undergraduate students who meet the eligibility criteria.
This guide provides a complete breakdown of the 2026 DHS Scholarship, including eligibility requirements, funded fields of study, covered costs, exclusions, and how to apply correctly.
DHS Scholarship 2026: Key Dates You Must Know
Applicants are strongly advised to note the official application window:
- Applications open: 22 December 2025
- Applications close: 07 January 2026
Late or incomplete applications are typically not considered, so early preparation is essential.
Who Should Apply for the Department of Human Settlements Scholarship?
The DHS Scholarship Programme is designed for young South Africans who demonstrate strong academic potential and a genuine financial need, particularly those interested in contributing to the built environment and human settlements sector.
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have exceptional matric results
- Be a youth or first-time undergraduate student
- Have no previous tertiary qualification
- Demonstrate a need for financial support
The programme primarily targets students entering higher education for the first time, rather than those already holding diplomas or degrees.
Fields of Study Funded by the DHS Scholarship 2026
Funding is strictly limited to Human Settlements and Built Environment–related disciplines. Applicants must be accepted or planning to study in one of the following areas:
- 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
These fields align directly with government priorities around housing development, spatial planning, and sustainable human settlements.
What the Department of Human Settlements Scholarship Covers
The DHS Scholarship is a partial-to-full cost academic scholarship, focused on covering core study-related expenses.
Costs Covered by the Scholarship
The scholarship covers the following:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and course materials
- University or accredited residence accommodation
- Meals
This funding structure ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of major academic costs.
What the DHS Scholarship Does NOT Cover
Applicants should carefully note the exclusions, as these are often misunderstood:
The scholarship does not cover:
- Monthly stipends or living allowances
- Transport or travel costs
- Photocopying expenses
- Bridging or foundation courses
- Membership or professional affiliation fees
- Laundry services
Students may need to secure additional personal or family support to cover these expenses.
DHS Scholarship 2026: Required Application Documents
To be considered, applicants must submit a complete application pack with all required documentation.
Application Requirements Checklist
You will need:
- A completed application form printed from the Department of Human Settlements website
- A certified copy of your South African ID document
- Certified copies of June or December matric results
- Proof of residence
- Provisional acceptance letter from a recognised institution of higher learning
- Proof of household financial status (parent or guardian salary slip)
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
Incomplete applications may result in automatic disqualification.
Where to Get the Official Application Form
The official application form must be obtained directly from the Department of Human Settlements website:
Applicants are advised to avoid third-party websites requesting payment or personal details, as the DHS scholarship application is free of charge.
Download Application Form together with supporting document to [email protected] before the closing date (07 January 2026)
Why the DHS Scholarship Is Important for South Africa
The Department of Human Settlements plays a critical role in:
- Housing development
- Urban and rural planning
- Infrastructure sustainability
- Community development
By funding students in these disciplines, the scholarship helps build a future workforce capable of supporting South Africa’s long-term development goals under the National Development Plan (NDP 2030).
Final Reminder Before You Apply
Before submitting your application:
- Double-check all certified documents
- Ensure your acceptance letter is valid
- Submit before 07 January 2026
- Keep copies of everything you submit
Competition for this scholarship is high, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the DHS Scholarship available for postgraduate studies?
No. The 2026 programme is aimed at youth and first-time undergraduate students only.
Does the scholarship pay a monthly allowance?
No. The scholarship does not include a stipend or monthly allowance.
Can I apply without an acceptance letter?
No. A provisional acceptance letter from a higher education institution is required.
Is there an application fee?
No. The DHS Scholarship application is 100% free.
Can I apply if I already have a qualification?
No. Applicants must not have a previous tertiary qualification.
