The South African National Society (SANS) invites postgraduate students to apply for its 2025–2026 Killie Campbell Bursary Programme, supporting research in South African history—especially KwaZulu‑Natal focused projects.

About the Bursary Provider

SANS is dedicated to promoting and preserving South Africa’s historical and cultural heritage. Established over a century ago, it supports heritage preservation efforts and honours the legacy of Dr. Killie Campbell—whose Africana collection at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal inspired this bursary.

Fields Covered

This bursary supports postgraduate study (Honours, Master’s, or PhD) in History-related topics with a focus on South African history, preferably research connected to KwaZulu‑Natal.

Expenses Covered

The bursary is valued at approximately R25,000, paid in two equal instalments of R12,500—first in September (at a SANS monthly meeting) and the second after a satisfactory supervisor report.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following:

  • Be enrolled in a postgraduate History qualification (Honours, Master’s, or PhD) at an accredited South African university
  • Research topic must relate to South African history, with preference for KwaZulu‑Natal themes
  • Academic merit and relevance to heritage are essential; financial need is considered

This page was updated on July 10, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply

There is no formal form. Applicants must submit by 31 July 2025(closing date) their:

  • Personal information (name, email, phone)
  • Academic and personal background
  • Research topic outline
  • Qualification level (Honours/Masters/PhD)
  • Institution name, faculty, proof of registration/payment
  • Supervisor’s name and contact details

Email your application to memorycoutts1@gmail.com or hand‑deliver it to:

The Secretary
South African National Society
31 St Andrews Drive, Durban North, Durban 4051

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date

31 July 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

South African National Society – Killie Campbell Bursary
Contact: Memory Coutts (Secretary)
Email: memorycoutts1@gmail.com
Delivery address: 31 St Andrews Drive, Durban North, Durban 4051

1. Who is eligible for the bursary?
Postgraduate students (Honours/Masters/PhD) at accredited SA universities conducting history research, preferably on KwaZulu‑Natal topics.
2. What is the bursary value?
Approximately R25,000, paid in two tranches of R12,500 each—first in September and the second after a satisfactory supervisor report.
3. Must my research focus on KwaZulu‑Natal?
While South African history in general is allowed, preference is given to topics specifically related to KwaZulu‑Natal.
4. Is there an interview process?
Yes—applicants may be invited to an interview (in person or via Zoom) with the selection committee.
5. Are presentations required?
Yes—you’ll be asked to present a brief outline of your research topic at a SANS monthly meeting; your final dissertation may be published on the SANS website.
6. Which universities qualify?
Any recognised and accredited South African university offering postgraduate history research programmes.
7. How do I apply?
Submit required personal, academic, institutional and research information via email or postal delivery—no formal form required.
8. What is the deadline?
31 July 2025. Applications submitted after this date or missing required information will not be accepted.
9. When will funds be paid?
First instalment in September at a SANS meeting; the second after receipt of your supervisor’s satisfactory report, typically six months later.
10. Who can I contact for queries?
Contact Memory Coutts (Secretary of SANS) via memorycoutts1@gmail.com or via postal address in Durban.

Before you apply for any bursary, make sure you have a clear plan. Download our comprehensive Bursary Application Checklist to stay organized, submit your documents correctly, and increase your chances of success.

Bursary Application Checklist