If you’re an unemployed student looking to further your studies in law, STEM, or other high-demand fields, the SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026 is now open for applications. With generous funding available for full-time, distance learning, and TVET students, this bursary could ease your financial burden and set you up for success.
- What is SASSETA?
- What Does the SASSETA Bursary Cover?
- Fields Funded by the SASSETA Bursary
- Who Can Apply?
- Duration of the Bursary
- Required Documents for Application
- How to Apply for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026
- Application Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Selection Process and Feedback
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Contact SASSETA
What is SASSETA?
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is one of 21 SETAs in South Africa. These organisations are responsible for promoting skills development across various sectors. SASSETA focuses on the safety and security sector, supporting industries such as policing, private security, legal services, corrections, intelligence, and defence.
SASSETA was formed through the merger of the POSLEC SETA and DIDTETA. Its core mission is to create learning opportunities, transfer skills, and support human capital development in its sector.
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What Does the SASSETA Bursary Cover?
The SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026 offers extensive financial support depending on your mode of study:
- Full-Time Students: R80 000 for tuition, registration, books, accommodation, meals + device up to R10 000.
- Distance Learning Students: R35 000 for tuition, registration, and books.
- TVET Students: R50 000 for tuition, registration, books, accommodation, and meals.
- Masters & Research Students: May claim for research-related expenses like editing and printing.
SASSETA may also help settle outstanding student debt, subject to the availability of funds.
Fields Funded by the SASSETA Bursary
The bursary prioritises qualifications that align with the country’s critical skills list. These include:
- LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Veterinary Science
- Other Occupations in High Demand, as per the Department of Higher Education & Training’s 2024 report (pages 13–22)
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35
- Be unemployed
- Have completed Matric
- Be registered or accepted to study at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college
- Be pursuing one of the listed fields of study
- Not be part of any other SASSETA-funded programme
- Preferably come from a low-income or “missing middle” household
- Agree to the SASSETA Bursary Policy 2025/2026
Note: Students at private institutions may only apply if their course is not offered at a public institution.
Duration of the Bursary
The bursary is awarded for the minimum duration of your qualification, plus one additional year. For instance, if your degree is three years, you may receive funding for up to four years.
Required Documents for Application
You must submit the following certified documents (not older than 6 months):
- SA ID Document
- Matric certificate or final results
- Latest academic transcript (if applicable)
- Proof of registration or acceptance for the 2026 academic year
- Proof of household income (affidavit detailing all income sources and employment status)
Important: Keep your documents under 20 MB in total size.
How to Apply for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026
- Download and complete the SASSETA Bursary Application Form 2026 (.docx)
- Indicate “https://www.nasi-ispani.co.za/” as the source in the relevant field.
- Email your completed form and supporting documents to:
Bursaries@SASSETA.org.za
(Use the subject line: “SASSETA Bursary 2026”)
Deadline: 30 January 2026 at 23:59 PM
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Start early: Collect your documents and apply well before the deadline.
- Double-check your form and attachments for accuracy.
- Use the correct subject line when emailing.
- Make sure all documents are clear and certified.
Selection Process and Feedback
If you’re shortlisted, SASSETA will contact you within 90 days of the closing date. If you don’t hear back after that period, consider your application unsuccessful. However, keep applying for other opportunities.
RELATED: Apply for the Greater Letaba Municipality Bursary 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I’m already receiving another bursary?
No. You must not be funded by any other SASSETA programme during the current financial year.
Do I need to be accepted into an institution before applying?
Yes. You need to submit proof of registration or acceptance for the 2026 academic year.
Will I receive a laptop or tablet?
Yes, full-time students may receive a device up to the value of R10 000, including a mouse.
Can I apply if I’m studying part-time?
The bursary prioritises full-time and distance learning students at public institutions.
Contact SASSETA
If you have any questions about the bursary:
Email: DG@sasseta.org.za
(Only contact SASSETA before the deadline. They won’t respond once applications are closed.)
The SASSETA Bursary South Africa 2026 is a valuable opportunity for youth eager to build careers in law, STEM, and other high-impact sectors. With rising tuition and living costs, this bursary could be your bridge to a brighter future.