MacMillan Foundation Bursaries: A Guide for 2027 Applicants

The MacMillan Foundation is offering a valuable opportunity for Black South African female students pursuing postgraduate studies in Architecture. For the 2027 academic year, the foundation is providing financial assistance through its Postgraduate Architecture Bursary Programme. This bursary aims to support talented students who face financial barriers to completing their education.

This guide will walk you through the details of the MacMillan Foundation Bursary, including what it covers, who is eligible, and how to apply. Understanding these requirements is key to submitting a successful application.

Understanding the MacMillan Foundation Bursary Programme

The MacMillan Foundation Bursary Programme is specifically designed to support Black South African female students in postgraduate Architecture programs. The goal is to help previously disadvantaged women with strong academic potential who lack the financial means to continue their studies. The funding is provided for one academic year and is paid directly to the university after registration and fee documents are submitted.

Key Details of the Bursary:

• Provider: MacMillan Foundation
• Programme: MacMillan Foundation Bursary 2027
• Field of Study: Postgraduate Architecture
• Academic Year: 2027
• Funding Duration: One academic year
• Target Group: Black South African female students
• Study Institution: Accredited South African universities
• Closing Date: 01 November 2026
• Application Method: Email

Field of Study and Purpose of the Bursary

The bursary is exclusively for postgraduate degrees in Architecture. Applicants must either be currently studying or planning to enroll in an eligible postgraduate Architecture qualification at an accredited South African university. Undergraduate programs or studies outside of Architecture are not covered.

The bursary’s core purpose is to assist students who demonstrate strong academic performance, have been accepted into postgraduate Architecture studies, and have limited financial resources. It aims to support their potential to succeed in the Architecture profession and contribute to the transformation and increased participation of Black women in this sector.

What the MacMillan Foundation Bursary Covers

The bursary provides financial support for one academic year. Funds are disbursed directly to the student’s academic institution upon receipt of their proof of registration and an official academic tax invoice.

It is important to note that the provided information does not specify the maximum value of the bursary. It also does not confirm whether the bursary covers expenses beyond tuition fees, such as accommodation, textbooks, study equipment, meals, transport, or personal allowances. Applicants should not assume these additional costs will be covered unless explicitly stated by the MacMillan Foundation.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the MacMillan Foundation Bursary, applicants must meet all the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be South African citizens.
• Race: Must be Black, as defined under South Africa’s B-BBEE Codes.
• Gender: Must be female.
• Age: Must be able to complete their degree before reaching 35 years of age.
• Field of Study: Must be studying or planning to study towards a postgraduate Architecture degree.
• Institution: Must study at an accredited South African university.
• Academics: Must possess a strong academic record.
• Criminal Record: Must have no previous criminal record.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate financial need.
• Application: Must submit a complete application before the closing date.

Failure to meet any of these requirements may lead to the disqualification of an application.

Citizenship and Age Requirements

Applicants must hold South African citizenship and provide a certified copy of their South African identity document. The document must be clear, readable, and correctly certified. Additionally, applicants must be able to complete their postgraduate Architecture qualification before their 35th birthday. This age requirement is based on the expected completion date of the program, not just the applicant’s age at the time of application.

Academic and University Requirements

A strong academic record is essential, with recent results demonstrating satisfactory progress and strong performance in Architecture-related subjects. While a specific minimum academic average is not stated, applicants should show the ability to manage postgraduate studies and the potential for successful completion. Studies must be undertaken at an accredited South African university. Applicants need to clearly identify their university, program, current year of study, expected registration and completion dates, and tuition fees for the 2027 academic year.

Financial Need Demonstration

The bursary is intended for academically capable students who face financial challenges. Applicants may need to provide details about outstanding university fees, their household’s financial situation, current university account balances, and any existing bursaries or financial aid. Accurate financial information, supported by necessary declarations or documents, is required.

The Selection Process and Application Outcome

Applications will be assessed based on eligibility, academic performance, financial need, and the overall quality and completeness of the application and supporting documents. Recommendations from lecturers and the applicant’s suitability for the bursary program will also be considered, alongside funding availability. The final award is contingent on the applicant’s final academic results and proof of tuition fees from the university.

Successful candidates can expect to be contacted by 03 December 2026. If no feedback is received by this date, applicants should assume their application was unsuccessful.

Required Supporting Documents for Application

A complete application package is crucial for consideration. Applicants must submit the following:

• A completed MacMillan Foundation Bursary Application Form for 2027.
• A certified copy of their South African identity document.
• Their latest academic results.
• Proof of their current university account, showing whether fees are paid or outstanding.
• One recommendation letter from a lecturer.
• A declaration of any outstanding debt from previous studies, if applicable.
• A declaration or affidavit confirming financial independence from parents, if applicable.
• Additional supporting documents such as a CV or Architecture portfolio, if relevant.

Any missing compulsory documents may lead to disqualification.

Lecturer Recommendation and Architecture Portfolio

The recommendation letter from a lecturer should highlight the applicant’s academic ability, commitment to Architecture, participation in academic activities, professional conduct, and potential for success in postgraduate studies. An Architecture portfolio, if submitted, can showcase design projects, technical drawings, concept development, and research interests, demonstrating creative and technical skills.

Document Size Limit

All application documents combined must not exceed 10MB. Applicants should compress PDF files if necessary, ensuring text remains readable. Documents should not be password-protected.

How to Apply for the MacMillan Foundation Bursary 2027

Applicants must download and complete the official bursary application form.

Click here to download the MacMillan Foundation Bursary Application Form 2027

Completed applications and supporting documents must be emailed to both addresses below:

Primary email: [email protected]
Second email: [email protected]

Click here to apply for the MacMillan Foundation Bursary 2027

Applicants must use the following email subject line:

Frequently Asked Questions