## About the Provider
The South African Institute of Valuers, known as the SAIV, was established in 1909 and is the professional society of real estate valuers in South Africa. For more than a century, the institute has served, advanced, and protected the valuation profession in the country. It is committed to maintaining high ethical standards among its members and to protecting the interests of professional valuers.
Property valuation is a specialised and important profession. Valuers determine the value of land, buildings, and other property, work that is essential to the functioning of the property market and the broader economy. Their assessments are relied upon by banks, government bodies, property developers, investors, and individuals for a wide range of purposes, from buying and selling property to financing, taxation, and insurance. Without skilled and trustworthy valuers, the property sector could not operate effectively.
The SAIV plays a central role in upholding the standards and integrity of this profession. By setting ethical standards, supporting professional development, and representing valuers, the institute helps to ensure that the public can trust the work of its members. Part of this responsibility involves developing the next generation of valuers, which is where the institute's bursary programme comes in.
The SAIV Bursary is designed to support students who are committed to building careers in property valuation. Recognising that financial barriers can prevent talented students from completing their studies, the institute offers funding to help cover the costs of property valuation qualifications. Importantly, the bursary is available to student members of the institute, and student membership is free for unemployed full-time students, which helps to make the programme accessible to those who need it.
What makes the programme distinctive is its close connection to the profession. The bursary is not simply a source of funding; it is part of the institute's broader effort to nurture and develop valuers. Recipients are expected to participate in activities aligned with the institute's mission and vision, which helps to build their connection to the profession from an early stage. This integration between funding and professional development reflects the institute's long-term commitment to the field.
For students who are passionate about property, the built environment, and the specialised work of valuation, the SAIV Bursary represents a valuable opportunity. It offers financial support tailored to individual needs, a connection to the professional body that represents valuers, and a clear pathway into a respected and in-demand profession. Through this programme, the SAIV invests in the future of valuation in South Africa, supporting dedicated students as they prepare to join and strengthen the profession.
## About the Program
The SAIV Bursary funds studies towards a property valuation qualification for the 2027 academic year, at either undergraduate or postgraduate level. The programme is specifically for members of the South African Institute of Valuers, and student membership is free for unemployed full-time students, which makes it accessible to those who qualify.
The value of the bursary is determined by each candidate's needs and the quotation received from their tertiary institution. Bursaries are paid directly into the institution's account, for the credit of the student's account. The bursary covers one academic year at a time, and students are required to reapply for funding each year. Continued funding for subsequent years is based on satisfactory academic performance, so recipients must keep up their results to retain support.
Bursary recipients have certain responsibilities. They must submit their academic progress report after each examination to the General Manager's office, and they are required to participate in activities that align with the institute's mission and vision. These obligations help keep recipients connected to the profession they are preparing to join.
The eligibility requirements are specific to the field of property valuation. Applicants must be South African citizens studying towards a property valuation qualification, must have completed their first year of study, and must be entering their second year in 2027. Postgraduate students may also apply. Applicants must have completed valuation-related first-year subjects and must be studying at a tertiary institution that is recognised and accredited by the relevant property valuers body.
Applicants must be student members of the SAIV, must not be receiving any other bursary award, grant, study allowance, or donation, and must be in genuine need of financial assistance. These requirements ensure that the bursary reaches students who are committed to the valuation profession and who genuinely need support.
The selection process is thorough. After applications are received, they are reviewed by branch executive members, who shortlist candidates and invite them to interviews with senior committee members. Feedback is then given, and final approval is made by the relevant education committee, with provisional approval subject to results and the availability of funds.
Applications are submitted by email using the official application form. By funding studies in property valuation, the SAIV Bursary helps to develop the next generation of professional valuers, supporting students who are committed to this specialised and important field.
## Bursary Benefits
The SAIV Bursary provides financial support to help students pursue a property valuation qualification. The amount is tailored to each student's needs and circumstances, making it a flexible form of support.
- **Financial support** towards the costs of a property valuation qualification, with the value determined by your needs and your institution's quotation
- Funding **paid directly to your institution**, for the credit of your student account
- A **renewable award**, covering one academic year at a time and continuing based on satisfactory academic performance
- Free **student membership** of the institute for unemployed full-time students, which is a requirement for the bursary
Because the bursary value is based on each student's needs and institutional costs, it can provide meaningful support tailored to individual circumstances. The fact that funding is paid directly to the institution also ensures that it is used for its intended purpose.
In return, recipients are expected to submit their academic progress reports after each examination and to participate in activities aligned with the institute's mission and vision. These responsibilities help keep students connected to the valuation profession and to the institute that supports them, while the renewable nature of the bursary rewards continued academic success.
## Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered.
- You must be a **South African citizen**
- You must be studying towards a **property valuation qualification**
- You must have **completed your first year of study**
- You must be entering your **second year of study in 2027** (postgraduate students may also apply)
- You must have completed **valuation-related first-year subjects**
- You must be studying at a tertiary institution that is **recognised and accredited** by the relevant property valuers body
- You must be a **student member of the SAIV** (student membership is free for unemployed full-time students)
- You must **not** be in receipt of any other bursary award, grant, study allowance, or donation
- You must be in **need of financial assistance**
## Required Documents
Submit clear, certified copies of the following supporting documents along with your completed application form. Missing documents may lead to disqualification, so prepare them carefully before you begin.
- A certified copy of your **ID document**
- Your **Matric certificate** (certified copy)
- **Proof of registration** at a tertiary institution, on the institution's letterhead
- Your latest **academic progress report or results**, on the institution's letterhead
- A **list of subjects outstanding** after completing the 2026 academic year, on the institution's letterhead
- An **account for outstanding fees** for your enrolled subjects, on the institution's letterhead
- Your **Candidate Valuer registration certificate**, if applicable
Make sure all copies are clear, legible, and properly certified or on official letterheads where required. Having a complete set ready will make the email application process faster and smoother, and will help you avoid delays.
## How to Apply
Applications for the SAIV Bursary must be submitted by email using the official application form. Follow these steps to apply successfully:
1. Confirm that you are a student member of the SAIV. If you are not yet a member, note that student membership is free for unemployed full-time students.
2. Download and complete the official SAIV Bursary application form.
3. Gather all your required documents and prepare clear, certified copies.
4. When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the referral information as requested on the form.
5. Combine your completed form and supporting documents into a single, clear submission.
6. Send your application by email to the address provided, inserting the words SAIV Bursary Application in the email subject line.
7. Review your application carefully before sending to confirm there are no errors or missing documents.
8. Submit your application before the closing date.
Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to apply well in advance. Note that shortlisted candidates are invited to attend an interview with senior committee members, so be prepared to discuss your studies and your interest in the valuation profession. Keep a copy of your application for your records.
## Tips for Success
A strong bursary application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the SAIV Bursary.
- **Become a student member first.** You must be a student member of the SAIV to apply. Remember that student membership is free for unemployed full-time students, so arrange this early.
- **Confirm your field and year of study.** The bursary is specifically for property valuation students who have completed their first year and are entering their second year, as well as postgraduate students. Make sure you qualify.
- **Gather institution documents.** You will need several documents on your institution's letterhead, including proof of registration, results, a list of outstanding subjects, and a fees account. Request these in good time.
- **Prepare for an interview.** Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by senior committee members. Think about how you would discuss your studies and your commitment to the valuation profession.
- **Use the correct email subject line.** When you submit your application by email, remember to insert the required words in the subject line so your application is correctly identified.
- **Confirm you hold no other funding.** You must not be receiving any other bursary, grant, allowance, or donation. Make sure this is the case before applying.
- **Apply early.** Avoid last-minute problems by completing and sending your application well before the closing date.
- **Get documents certified in advance.** Certified copies take time to arrange, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths ahead of time.
- **Proofread your application.** Errors and missing documents create a poor impression. Review everything before sending, or ask someone to check it for you.
- **Be truthful.** Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation.
Because this is a specialised bursary tied to professional membership, a complete and accurate application that clearly shows your commitment to the valuation profession will give you the best chance of success.
## Career Prospects
The SAIV Bursary prepares students for a career in property valuation, a specialised and respected profession within the broader property and built environment sector. Because the bursary is focused specifically on this field, recipients are on a clear path towards becoming professional valuers.
Property valuers play an essential role in the economy. They determine the value of land, buildings, and other property for a wide range of purposes, including sales, purchases, financing, taxation, insurance, and investment decisions. Banks, government bodies, property developers, investors, and individuals all rely on accurate property valuations, which makes the work both important and in steady demand.
Graduates who qualify as valuers can work in various settings. Many work for valuation firms, property companies, or financial institutions, while others work for government bodies such as municipalities, which need valuers to determine property values for rates and taxes. Some valuers also work independently, building their own practices and serving a range of clients.
The profession offers good prospects for those who are diligent and committed. As valuers gain experience and register with the relevant professional body, they can take on more complex and higher-value work, which often comes with greater responsibility and earning potential. Experienced valuers may also move into specialised areas, such as commercial property, agricultural property, or specialised assets.
Because the SAIV Bursary connects recipients to the South African Institute of Valuers, students gain a valuable link to the professional body that represents valuers in the country. This connection can provide access to networks, professional development, and support throughout a valuer's career. The requirement to participate in activities aligned with the institute's mission also helps students build relationships within the profession from an early stage.
The property and built environment sector is an important part of the economy, and skilled valuers are needed to support it. As the country continues to develop and as property markets evolve, the demand for qualified, professional valuers is likely to remain strong.
For students who are committed to a career in property valuation, the SAIV Bursary offers both the financial support needed to study and a direct connection to the profession. By funding studies in this specialised field, the institute helps to develop the next generation of valuers, supporting talented and dedicated students as they build careers in an important and rewarding profession.
## Frequently Asked Questions
## Who can apply for the SAIV Bursary?
South African citizens studying towards a property valuation qualification, who have completed their first year and are entering their second year in 2027 (or are postgraduate students), who are student members of the SAIV, and who are in financial need, may apply.
## What does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers studies towards a property valuation qualification. The value is determined by your needs and your institution's quotation, and funding is paid directly to your institution.
## Do I need to be a member of the SAIV?
Yes. You must be a student member of the SAIV. Student membership is free for unemployed full-time students.
## Is the bursary renewable?
Yes. The bursary covers one academic year at a time, and you must reapply each year. Continued funding is based on satisfactory academic performance.
## When is the closing date?
Applications close on **31 October 2026**. Late applications will not be accepted.
## How do I apply?
Download and complete the official SAIV Bursary application form, then submit it by email with your supporting documents, using the correct subject line.
## Is there an interview?
Yes. Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend an interview with senior committee members before final selection.
## Can postgraduate students apply?
Yes. Postgraduate students studying towards a property valuation qualification may also apply.
## Can I hold another bursary at the same time?
No. You must not be in receipt of any other bursary award, grant, study allowance, or donation.
Applications Closing
Applications close on 31 October 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, so prepare your application form and documents early and submit well before the deadline.
About the Organization
South African Institute of Valuers (SAIV)
Contact person: Anne-Marie Delport (General Manager's office)
Tel: 012 348 2757
Email: gmassist@saiv.org.za