SASSETA Bursary 2026

About SASSETA

SASSETA was established to facilitate education, training and skills development within South Africa’s safety and security sector. It was formed following the merger of POSLEC SETA and DIDTETA.

As one of South Africa’s 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), SASSETA is responsible for managing and implementing skills development initiatives such as bursaries, learnerships, internships, apprenticeships and skills programmes within its sector.

Fields Covered

SASSETA is inviting applications for the Unemployed Bursary Programme for studies preferably within the following fields:

• LLB
• STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
• Veterinary Science
• Occupations in High Demand (as published by DHET – 2024 list, pages 13–22)

Expenses Covered

The bursary provides funding as follows:

• Full-time university students: Funding up to R80 000 for tuition, registration, books, accommodation and meals, plus an electronic device (laptop or tablet) up to R10 000.
• Distance learning students: Funding up to R35 000 for tuition, registration and books.
• TVET College students: Funding up to R50 000 for tuition, registration, books, accommodation and meals.
• Masters and research students: Research-related expenses such as printing and editing.

SASSETA may consider additional funding or settlement of outstanding student debt, subject to availability of funds.

Selection & Duration

Bursaries will be awarded for a period not exceeding the minimum duration of the qualification, plus one additional year.

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted within 90 days after the closing date. If no feedback is received, please consider the application unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• South African citizen
• Between 18 and 35 years old
• Completed Matric
• Studying or registered to study in 2026 within an approved field
• Accepted or registered at a recognised public University, University of Technology or TVET College
• Private institution students may apply only if the qualification is not offered at public institutions
• Must be unemployed
• Not currently participating in any SASSETA-funded programme
• Preference given to missing middle and low-income households

Applicants must read and agree to the SASSETA Bursary Policy 2025/2026 .

How to Apply

Download and complete the application form:

🔗 SASSETA Bursary Application Form 2026

Required Supporting Documents

• Certified ID copy (not older than 6 months)
• Certified Matric certificate or final results
• Certified latest academic record (if studying)
• Proof of acceptance or registration for 2026
• Household income affidavit and employment status

Supporting documents must not exceed 20MB in total. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.

Email completed applications to:
Bursaries@SASSETA.org.za
Subject line: SASSETA Bursary 2026

Closing Date

30 January 2026 at 23:59.
Late applications will not be accepted.

Contact Details

For enquiries, contact SASSETA:

• Email: DG@sasseta.org.za

Please do not contact SASSETA if the bursary has already closed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the SASSETA Bursary 2026?

Unemployed South African citizens between 18 and 35 years old who meet the academic requirements.

2. Does SASSETA fund distance learning?

Yes. Distance learning students may receive funding up to R35 000.

3. Are private institution students eligible?

Only if the qualification is not offered at public institutions.

4. What does the bursary cover?

Tuition, registration, books, accommodation, meals and an electronic device (where applicable).

5. When will feedback be provided?

Within 90 days after the closing date.