Western Cape Government: Masakh’iSizwe Bursaries for 2027

The Western Cape Government is offering the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. This bursary aims to support students who want to study engineering and the built environment at specific universities in the Western Cape. It helps cover costs like tuition, books, and living expenses. The application deadline is August 31, 2026.

Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027 Overview

The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme is provided by the Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure. It is for the 2027 academic year and supports students pursuing a Diploma or Degree in fields related to engineering and the built environment. Eligible universities for this program are the University of Cape Town (UCT), Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), and Stellenbosch University. Applications must be submitted online by August 31, 2026.

Eligibility Requirements for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027

To be considered for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary, applicants must meet certain criteria. Not meeting these requirements means an application will likely not be successful.

The main requirements are:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be currently in Grade 12 or have already finished Grade 12.
• Plan to study full-time in the 2027 academic year.
• Be pursuing an approved Degree or Diploma in engineering or the built environment.
• Be studying at, or have applied and been accepted to, one of the approved Western Cape universities.
• Submit all required documents by the closing date.
• Provide accurate information on the online application.

It is important for applicants to check the specific entry requirements for their chosen university and course before applying for the bursary.

Who Gets Preference?

While all eligible students can apply, the program may give preference to certain groups. These groups are often those who have been historically disadvantaged or are underrepresented in these fields.

Preference might be given to:

• Students with financial difficulties.
• Female students.
• Students with disabilities.
• Students from the Western Cape who live outside the main Cape Town area.

However, meeting these preference criteria does not guarantee a bursary. Academic performance, financial need, and the number of available bursaries also play a role in the selection process.

Approved Fields of Study

The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary focuses on Degree and Diploma programs within the engineering and built environment sectors.

The approved fields of study include:

• Architecture
• City and Regional Planning
• Construction
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering (specializing in Heavy Current)
• Geomatics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Property Studies
• Quantity Surveying

If a student’s chosen qualification is not on this list, they may not be eligible for this specific bursary.

Approved Universities

Students must be studying at, or have been accepted to study at, one of the following universities in the Western Cape:

• University of Cape Town (UCT)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• Stellenbosch University

If an applicant has applied to more than one university or is interested in more than one field of study, they need to submit a separate bursary application for each university or program.

What the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Covers

The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary can help pay for approved study-related costs. These may include:

• Tuition fees
• Required textbooks
• Other necessary study materials
• Academic support programs
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Transportation costs, if needed

The exact amount of the bursary can vary based on a student’s personal situation, the cost of their course, and the total funding available for the program.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must upload clear and complete copies of all necessary supporting documents. Missing or unclear documents can lead to an application being rejected.

The required documents typically include:

• A certified copy of the applicant’s South African ID.
• A certified copy of the latest Matric results if currently in Matric.
• A certified copy of the Matric certificate if Matric has already been completed.
• A certified copy of the latest academic record if currently studying at a tertiary level.
• Proof of registration, acceptance, or application at an approved university.
• The full course outline or prospectus for the 2027 academic year.
• An estimate of study costs for 2027.
• Proof of residential address (not older than three months).
• Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ IDs.
• Death certificates if a parent or guardian has passed away.
• Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (e.g., recent payslips or an affidavit if unemployed).
• Proof of any SASSA grant or pension, if applicable.
• A motivational letter for the bursary application.
• Proof of any existing study debt.
• Proof of any other financial aid received.
• Medical proof of disability, if applicable.
• A police clearance certificate if the applicant has a criminal record.

How to Apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2027

Applications for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary must be submitted online through the official application portal.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Go to the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary online application portal.
2. Create a new account using a valid email address.
3. Log in with your registered username and password.
4. Choose the correct qualification and university.
5. Fill out all sections of the application form carefully.
6. Upload all the required supporting documents.
7. Double-check all the information for accuracy.
8. Submit your application before the deadline of August 31, 2026.
9. Keep a record of your application confirmation or reference number.

It is advisable to apply well before the final day. This helps avoid issues like technical problems, missing documents, or internet connectivity problems that could prevent a successful submission.

Motivational Letter Requirements

A well-written motivational letter can significantly strengthen a bursary application. It’s a chance to explain why you deserve the financial support.

Your letter should include:

• The specific qualification you plan to study.
• Your reasons for choosing a career in engineering or the built environment.
• Your academic achievements and any relevant skills or strengths.
• Details about your financial situation.
• Your career aspirations after graduation.
• How your chosen qualification can help develop infrastructure and serve the public.
• Why you believe you should be chosen for this bursary.

The motivational letter should be professional, honest, and tailored to your personal circumstances.

Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Obligations

Students who are awarded the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary may have certain responsibilities during their studies. These can include:

• Attending workshops and training sessions.
• Participating in program events and meetings.
• Engaging in academic experiential training.
• Taking part in outreach activities.
• Attending some activities on weekends.

After completing their studies, bursary recipients might be required to work for the Department of Infrastructure. They may also need to join a Professional Development Training Programme to work towards becoming professionally registered in their field.

It is important for applicants to understand and agree to the bursary program’s policies and contractual obligations before accepting the award.

Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed based on the program’s requirements, available funding, academic results, and other selection criteria. Candidates who are shortlisted for the bursary will be contacted by the program. If an applicant does not hear back by February 12, 2027, they should assume their application was not successful.

Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme is August 31, 2026. Late applications will not be considered. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early and ensure all documents are uploaded correctly.

Contact Details

If you have questions about the bursary, you can contact the Department of Infrastructure’s Masakh’iSizwe Office.

• Telephone: 021 483 0964 or 021 483 9545
• Email: [email protected]

Before contacting them, it is recommended to read the frequently asked questions and program policies on the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary website.

Conclusion

The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme offers significant financial and professional support for students aiming for careers in engineering and the built environment. Eligible students should prepare their application materials well in advance and ensure they submit a complete application before the August 31, 2026 deadline. This bursary is a valuable opportunity for those looking to contribute to the Western Cape’s infrastructure development.

Frequently Asked Questions