FASSET Bursary 2026: R100k Funding for Top Matric Achievers

If you finished your 2025 Matric year with strong results, the FASSET Bursary 2026 is one of the most valuable funding opportunities currently open.

This bursary is exclusively designed for high academic achievers entering scarce-skills degrees in finance, accounting, and related fields. With funding of up to R100,000 per year, FASSET removes major financial pressure so you can focus entirely on your studies.

What Is the FASSET Bursary?

The Finance and Accounting Services SETA (FASSET) supports skills development in South Africa’s financial services sector.

This bursary targets:

  • High-performing matriculants
  • Students entering professions with national skills shortages
  • Future accountants, actuaries, economists, and financial IT specialists

Unlike general funding schemes, this programme is profession-focused and merit-based.

What the FASSET Bursary Covers

FASSET offers full-cost bursary support, capped at R100,000 per academic year.

Covered Expenses

  • Tuition Fees
    Full registration and course fees
  • Accommodation
    On-campus or accredited off-campus housing
  • Study Materials
    Prescribed textbooks and stationery
  • Living Allowances
    Meal and basic support costs

Funding is paid directly toward approved study expenses.

Approved Fields of Study (Scarce Skills)

You qualify if you are registered for one of the following at a public university:

Finance & Accounting

  • Accounting Sciences (CA stream)
  • Auditing
  • Taxation

Mathematical & Economic Sciences

  • Actuarial Science
  • Economics
  • Econometrics
  • Management Sciences

Financial Technology

  • IT degrees linked to the financial sector

Private colleges are not eligible.

Eligibility Requirements: Check Before You Apply

FASSET applies strict criteria to protect its investment in top academic talent.

You must meet all of the following:

Academic Performance

  • 75% or higher overall average in your 2025 Matric final results
  • Strong results in Mathematics (Accounting highly recommended)

Financial Criteria

  • Combined household income not exceeding R1,000,000 per year

Study Institution

  • Accepted or registered at a South African public university or University of Technology

Citizenship

  • South African citizen

Important Dates You Must Know

  • Applications Close: 28 February 2026
  • Cut-off Time: 23:59
  • Application Type: Online only

Late or incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.

How to Apply for the FASSET Bursary 2026

Applications are submitted through the official FASSET bursary portal.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

  • 2025 Matric statement or certificate
  • Proof of university acceptance or registration
  • Certified South African ID
  • Proof of household income

Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Create a profile and upload all documents on the FASSET bursary system.

Step 3: Write a Strong Motivation
Your motivation letter should clearly explain:

  • Your academic discipline and career goals
  • Why you chose a financial services career
  • How this bursary will impact your success

This bursary is competitive — your motivation matters.

How to Answer Sanlam’s Motivation Questions:
FASSET wants to see your personality and logic. If you aren’t sure how to structure your answers, follow our step-by-step Motivational Letter Template for 2026 which includes specific tips for SFASSET Bursary.

Why Choose FASSET Instead of NSFAS?

NSFAS plays a vital role, but FASSET offers distinct advantages for top performers:

  • Higher annual funding cap (R100,000)
  • Focused on finance and accounting careers
  • Alignment with professional bodies (e.g. SAICA)
  • Designed for academically strong students

If you’re targeting a professional finance career, FASSET gives you a head start.

Funding Alternatives

If you don’t qualify yet, also explore:

FAQs – FASSET Bursary

Who qualifies for the FASSET Bursary?

Top 2025 Matric achievers with a 75%+ average studying finance-related degrees at public universities.

Is the R100,000 paid directly to students?

No. Funds are allocated toward approved academic expenses.

Can I apply if I’m funded by NSFAS?

Dual funding rules apply. Applicants must disclose all funding sources.

Does FASSET fund private institutions?

No. Only public universities and universities of technology are eligible.

Itumeleng Ndlovu

Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills development programmes. She specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges, and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable, and up-to-date guidance. She is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so South African students and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence. Contact: info@setacareers.co.za