SASSETA Bursaries 2026 provide financial support to unemployed South African students studying priority and high-demand fields at public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges.
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) has opened applications for its Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary for the 2026 academic year. This bursary is aimed at unemployed South African students who wish to pursue studies in priority and high-demand fields that contribute to skills development and economic growth.
For many students who fall within the missing middle or come from financially constrained households, this bursary offers meaningful support that can make higher education more accessible and sustainable.
About the SASSETA Bursary Programme
SASSETA is responsible for skills development within the safety and security sector in South Africa. Through its discretionary grant funding, the organisation supports unemployed learners who are studying in critical fields aligned with national development priorities.
The bursary focuses on supporting qualifications that are scarce or in high demand, as identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training, while also promoting access to education for disadvantaged and marginalised communities.
Fields of Study Funded
Bursaries will be awarded to unemployed students who are studying, or plan to study, preferably within the following fields:
LLB
STEM qualifications, including Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Veterinary Science
Occupations in High Demand as published by the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2024
These fields have been prioritised due to their importance in addressing skills shortages and supporting national development goals.
Bursary Coverage and Funding Values
The SASSETA bursary offers different funding amounts depending on the type of study and institution.
Full-Time University or University of Technology Students
Funding is provided up to a value of R80 000 per year. This funding may cover registration fees, tuition fees, prescribed books, accommodation, and meals. In addition, funded students will receive an electronic device such as a laptop or tablet, including a mouse, to a maximum value of R10 000.
Distance Learning Students
Distance learning students may receive funding up to a value of R35 000. This funding is intended to cover registration fees, tuition fees, and books.
TVET College Students
TVET students may receive funding up to a value of R50 000. This funding may cover registration fees, tuition fees, books, accommodation, and meals.
Masters and Research Students
Masters and research students may claim funding related to approved research expenses. This includes costs such as printing and editing of a thesis or dissertation.
SASSETA may also consider providing additional funding or settling outstanding student debt, subject to the availability of funds.
Duration of Funding
Bursaries are awarded for a period not exceeding the minimum duration of the qualification plus one additional year. For example, a three-year qualification may be funded for a maximum of four years, provided the student continues to meet the bursary requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements before applying.
Applicants must be South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35. They must have completed Grade 12 and be studying, or accepted to study, in one of the approved fields of study for the 2026 academic year.
Applicants must be registered or accepted at a recognised and accredited public university, university of technology, or public TVET college in South Africa. Students at private institutions may only apply if their chosen course is not offered at any public institution.
Only unemployed students may apply. Applicants must not be participating in any other SASSETA-funded programme, such as an internship, learnership, or skills programme, within the same financial year.
Preference is given to students from poor households with a combined household income of less than R350 000 per annum, students from the missing middle with a combined household income between R350 000.01 and R600 000 per annum, and students from marginalised communities.
Applicants must read and agree to the terms and conditions outlined in the SASSETA Bursary Policy for the 2025/2026 period.
How to Apply
Download Bursary Application Form 2026 (.docx)
Required Documents:
Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation with your completed application form:
- ID Document (certified copy – not older than 6 months)
- Matric certificate/ final results (certified copy – not older than 6 months)
- Most recent academic record, if currently studying (certified copy – not older than 6 months)
- Proof of acceptance/ registration for the 2026 academic year (on institutions letterhead)
- Parents or guardians proof of household income and employment status (affidavit confirming total household income, specifying all sources of income and indication employment status)
NB: the total size of the supporting documents must not be larger than 20 Megabytes (MB).
Applications must be submitted via email to: Bursaries@SASSETA.org.za (Insert the words “SASSETA Bursary 2026” in the email subject line).
The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the bursary aimed at?
The bursary is aimed at unemployed South African students studying in priority and high-demand fields.
Can distance learning students apply?
Yes, distance learning students registered at recognised institutions may apply and are funded under a separate funding structure.
Does the bursary cover accommodation and meals?
Accommodation and meals are covered for full-time and TVET students, subject to the funding limits.
Can SASSETA pay outstanding student debt?
SASSETA may consider paying outstanding student debt, depending on the availability of funding.
Conclusion
The SASSETA Bursaries 2026 present an important opportunity for unemployed students who want to pursue qualifications in critical and high-demand fields. With comprehensive funding support, including tuition, study materials, and additional resources, this bursary can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying and help students focus on achieving academic success.
Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their documents early and submit their applications before the closing date to avoid missing out on this valuable opportunity.
