The SASSETA Bursaries 2026 are funding opportunities offered by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) to support unemployed South African youth to pursue tertiary education and address skills shortages in key priority fields. This bursary falls under SASSETA’s Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Youth Bursary Programme and is designed to help students overcome financial barriers to education and training.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SASSETA Bursary 2026, applicants must meet all of the following:
✔ South African citizen
✔ Aged 18–35 years at the time of application
✔ Unemployed when applying
✔ Registered or accepted for full‑time or distance studies in 2026 at a recognised public university, university of technology, or public TVET college
✔ Studying a priority field approved by SASSETA
✔ Not currently funded by another SASSETA bursary or funding programme
Preference is given to:
• Students from low‑income households (≤ R350,000 per year)
• “Missing‑middle” households (R350,000.01–R600,000)
• Youth from marginalised communities
Fields of Study Supported
The SASSETA Bursary focuses on skills aligned with labour demand and sector skills plans. Priority qualifications include:
Core Priority Fields:
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LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
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STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)
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Veterinary Science
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Other occupations in high demand according to the Department of Higher Education and Training’s lists
Note: Only programmes that appear on SASSETA’s official approved list are eligible for funding.
What the SASSETA Bursary Covers
SASSETA bursary funding varies by study type:
Full‑Time University / University of Technology
✔ Up to R80,000 per year, covering:
• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Books & learning materials
• Accommodation and meals
✔ Electronic device (laptop/tablet up to ~R10,000)
Public TVET College Students
✔ Up to R50,000 per year, including:
• Tuition and registration fees
• Books
• Accommodation and meals
Distance Learning Students
✔ Up to R35,000 per year, covering:
• Registration
• Tuition
• Books
Masters / Research Students
✔ Funding may be allocated for research‑related costs such as printing, editing, thesis/dissertation expenses
SASSETA may also consider additional funding or outstanding student debt depending on fund availability.
Required Documents (Checklist)
Before applying, make sure you have the following certified documents ready:
📌 Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than 6 months)
📌 Certified copy of your Matric certificate or highest qualification results
📌 Proof of acceptance or registration for 2026
📌 Certified copy of parent/guardian’s ID (if required)
📌 Affidavit of household income & employment status
📌 Any other supporting documents required in the official SASSETA bursary form
Tip: Combine all documents into a single PDF (≤20 MB) before sending to avoid disqualification.
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step (2026)
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Download the official bursary application form from the SASSETA website under the Discretionary Grants section.
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Complete the form carefully with accurate personal and academic information.
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Attach all required certified documents in the specified format.
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Combine your files (e.g., PDF) and ensure total size is below 20 MB.
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Email your application with the correct subject line (e.g., SASSETA Bursary 2026) to:
📧 bursaries2026@sasseta.org.za -
Submit before the closing date — incomplete or late applications may not be considered.
Important Dates to Remember
📅 Application Opens: 14 December 2025
📅 Application Closes: 30 January 2026 at 23:59
Make sure your completed application is emailed before the deadline as late submissions are usually rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the SASSETA Bursary?
South African citizens aged 18–35, unemployed, registered or accepted for study in 2026 at a public institution in priority fields.
2. What fields of study are supported?
Priority fields include LLB (Law), STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Maths), Veterinary Science and other high‑demand qualifications on the SASSETA approved list.
3. Can distance learners apply?
Yes — distance learning students may receive funding (e.g., tuition, registration and books up to a capped amount).
4. Do I need an acceptance letter?
Yes — proof of registration or acceptance for the 2026 academic year is required, otherwise your application will not be considered.
5. What happens after I submit my application?
SASSETA reviews applications for compliance and eligibility. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for verification. Feedback is usually provided within ~90 days after the closing date.
