SANS Killie Campbell Bursaries 2026: R25 000 for Postgraduate History Students

The South African National Society is inviting postgraduate history students to apply for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme for the 2026 and 2027 academic years. This bursary offers up to R25,000 to students researching South African history, with a preference for those focusing on KwaZulu-Natal.

Application Closing Date: 31 July 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: 2026/2027 Academic Years
Stipend: Approximately R25 000
Minimum Qualification: Postgraduate Degree (Honours, Master’s, Doctorate)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary has been supporting postgraduate history students for about 40 years. Its main goal is to offer financial help to students who are doing advanced research in historical fields. This programme is specifically designed for those pursuing higher degrees and focusing on South African history.

The bursary is open to students registered at recognised South African universities. A key aspect of the programme is its focus on research that contributes to the understanding of South African history. Special consideration is given to research projects that explore the history of KwaZulu-Natal.

About the South African National Society

The South African National Society is an organisation dedicated to promoting historical research and understanding within South Africa. For many years, it has supported students and researchers in their academic pursuits. The society plays a role in preserving and sharing historical knowledge.

Available Bursary Opportunities

This bursary is specifically for postgraduate studies in a History-related field. Applicants can be pursuing any of the following qualifications:

• Honours degree
• Master’s degree
• Doctoral degree

The research, dissertation, or thesis topic must be related to South African history. There is a preference for research that specifically focuses on the history of KwaZulu-Natal.

What the Bursary Offers

Successful applicants will receive financial support to aid their postgraduate studies. The bursary is valued at approximately R25,000. This amount will be paid in two equal instalments of R12,500 each.

The first instalment will be paid in September 2026. The second instalment will be paid after the Society receives a satisfactory progress report from the student’s academic supervisor. Recipients may also be asked to present their research at Society meetings or allow their work to be published on the Society’s website.

Programme Duration and Location

This bursary is available for the 2026 and 2027 academic years. The research will be conducted by students registered at recognised and accredited universities within South Africa. Specific locations for research will depend on the university and the student’s chosen focus area.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be currently studying towards a postgraduate qualification (Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate).
• Be conducting research in a History-related field.
• Have a research, dissertation, or thesis topic that relates to South African history.
• Preference will be given to research focusing on KwaZulu-Natal history.
• Be registered at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa.
• Be able to provide the full contact details of their academic supervisor.
• Submit all required supporting information and documents before the closing date.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal competencies, successful applicants will likely demonstrate:

• Strong research skills.
• A clear understanding of their proposed research topic.
• Good communication abilities, especially for presenting research.
• A commitment to completing their postgraduate studies.
• The ability to meet academic progress requirements.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for postgraduate students in South Africa who are passionate about history and are undertaking research related to the country’s past. It is particularly suited for those focusing on the rich history of KwaZulu-Natal. If you are pursuing an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degree and need financial assistance for your historical research, this opportunity could be a great fit.

Required Documents

There is no specific application form for this bursary. Applicants must submit the following information and supporting documents via email, post, or hand delivery:

• Full name
• Gender
• Email address
• Telephone or cellphone number
• Personal and academic background
• Copies of academic qualifications
• Intended research or dissertation topic
• An outline of the proposed research
• Level of study (Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate)
• Name of the university and faculty
• Proof of registration or payment to the institution
• Supervisor’s full name and contact details

Ensure all submitted information is complete and clear to avoid disqualification.

How to Apply

Applicants can submit their applications by email, post, or hand delivery. Only submit your application using one method to avoid duplicates.

Apply by Email:
Send your application and all required documents to [email protected]. Use the subject line: “SANS Bursary 2026”.

Apply by Post or Hand Delivery:
Send your application to:
The Secretary
South African National Society
31 St. Andrews Drive
Durban North
Durban
4051

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews. The South African National Society reserves the right not to award the bursary if no suitable candidate is found. Recipients are expected to provide progress reports and potentially allow their completed research to be published. Ensure all documents are submitted correctly and on time.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary is 31 July 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the deadline.

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