Quantity Surveying Bursaries in South Africa 2026
Quantity surveying and construction cost management bursaries. Browse 1 funding opportunities — updated May 2026.
Quantity surveying bursaries are aimed at students who want to manage the money side of construction, from estimating and tendering to cost control and contract administration on building and civil projects. They typically cover tuition fees and registration, and many extend to accommodation, prescribed textbooks, a laptop or software allowance, and a monthly living stipend. Some of the strongest offers come from companies that employ quantity surveyors directly, which means a bursary can also be your first foot in the door of the industry.
On the funding side, you will find support from construction and built-environment firms, property developers, large QS and project-management consultancies, mining and engineering houses, and infrastructure SOEs. Government departments, the Construction SETA (CETA), and university faculties or trusts also fund students in this field, often alongside NSFAS. Many of these come with a workback agreement, where you commit to working for the sponsor for a set period after you graduate, often roughly a year of service for each year they fund you. Read those terms carefully, because they shape your first few years of work, not just your studies.
Eligibility usually rests on solid matric or NSC results, with particular weight on Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) and Physical Sciences, plus a place or acceptance to study quantity surveying, construction studies or construction cost management at a recognised university or TVET college. Sponsors often factor in financial need and almost always require South African citizenship. To apply well, get your supporting documents ready early (certified ID, results, proof of registration, and proof of household income), write a short, honest motivation that links your interest in cost and construction to the sponsor's work, and apply through official channels only. Many corporate bursaries open around August to October for the following academic year, so plan your timing around that cycle.
Quick tips
- →Prioritise Mathematics and Physical Sciences in matric, and push for the strongest possible marks since these are the subjects QS bursary panels look at first.
- →Apply early in the August to October window for the next academic year, and keep certified copies of your ID, results, proof of registration and proof of income ready to submit.
- →Treat the workback clause as part of the deal: check how many years you owe the sponsor and what happens if you change your mind before you accept.
- →Aim at companies and consultancies that actually employ quantity surveyors, as their bursaries often lead to vacation work and a graduate job.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Quantity Surveying bursaries are available in South Africa in 2026?
There are 1 quantity surveying bursaries currently listed on our platform, including corporate, government, and SETA-funded opportunities. They range from partial tuition bursaries to full cost-of-study awards.
When do Quantity Surveying bursary applications open?
Most corporate bursaries open between August and October for the following academic year. Some government bursaries accept applications year-round. Always check the official provider website for exact dates.
What marks do I need for a Quantity Surveying bursary?
Academic requirements vary by provider. Most quantity surveying bursaries require a minimum average of 60–70%. Some merit bursaries require 75%+ while others prioritise financial need over marks.