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

The South African National Society is offering the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme for the 2026 and 2027 academic years. This opportunity supports postgraduate students conducting research in history, with a focus on South African and KwaZulu-Natal history.

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. The programme aims to provide financial assistance to students who are undertaking advanced historical research at recognized South African universities. This bursary is specifically for those pursuing postgraduate qualifications with a research, dissertation, or thesis topic related to South African history.

A key focus of this bursary is to encourage research into the history of KwaZulu-Natal. Applicants whose research specifically addresses this area will be given preference. The bursary supports the academic journey of students contributing to the understanding of South Africa’s rich historical narrative.

About the South African National Society

The South African National Society is an organization dedicated to promoting historical research and understanding within South Africa. For many years, they have supported students and researchers in their academic pursuits. Their commitment extends to preserving and sharing the nation’s history through various initiatives, including this bursary programme.

The society plays a role in fostering academic excellence and encouraging in-depth study of historical subjects. Their work helps to ensure that important historical narratives, particularly those of South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal, are explored and documented.

Available Bursary Opportunities

This bursary is available for postgraduate studies in a History-related field. Applicants can be studying towards:

• An Honours degree
• A Master’s degree
• A Doctoral degree

The research, dissertation, or thesis topic must focus on South African history. Preference will be given to research that specifically covers KwaZulu-Natal history.

What the Bursary Offers

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary offers significant financial support to successful candidates. The bursary is valued at approximately R25 000. This amount will be paid in two equal instalments of roughly R12 500 each.

The first instalment will be paid in September 2026. The second instalment will be disbursed after the Society receives a satisfactory written progress report from the bursary recipient’s academic supervisor. This structure ensures ongoing support and accountability throughout the research period.

Programme Duration and Location

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary is available for the 2026 and 2027 academic years. The bursary supports students registered at recognised and accredited universities within South Africa. While the bursary itself is for research, the location of study is South Africa.

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 applicants whose research focuses on KwaZulu-Natal history.
• Be registered at a recognized 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.

Applicants who do not meet these minimum requirements will not be considered for the bursary.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not listed, successful applicants will likely need strong research and analytical skills. The ability to articulate a clear research proposal and outline is important. Good communication skills will be beneficial, as recipients may be asked to present their research.

A commitment to completing postgraduate studies and contributing to historical knowledge is essential. Applicants should also be organized and able to manage their research effectively, providing progress reports as required.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for postgraduate History students in South Africa who are passionate about researching the nation’s past. It is particularly suited for those focusing on South African history, and especially for students whose work delves into the unique history of KwaZulu-Natal. If you are pursuing an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degree and need financial support for your historical research, this bursary could be a valuable opportunity.

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
• Academic achievements
• Copies of qualifications
• Intended research or dissertation topic
• 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. Missing documents may lead to disqualification.

How to Apply

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

Apply by Email:
Email 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

Do not submit duplicate applications through different methods.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview. The South African National Society reserves the right not to award the bursary if no suitable candidate is found. Successful applicants may be required to present their research outline at a Society meeting and submit a soft copy of their completed dissertation or thesis for potential publication on the Society’s website. Ensure all documents are submitted before the closing date.

Closing Date

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

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