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:
- Sorbet Academy Bursary 2026: Study Beauty, Nails or Hair With Job Opportunities
- Shoprite Agricultural Sciences Bursary 2026
- NSFAS funding
- Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027: Full Funding Plus Career Placement
- IUCMA External Bursary Programme 2026 – Mpumalanga
- SETA Bursary 2026
FAQs – FASSET Bursary
Top 2025 Matric achievers with a 75%+ average studying finance-related degrees at public universities.
No. Funds are allocated toward approved academic expenses.
Dual funding rules apply. Applicants must disclose all funding sources.
No. Only public universities and universities of technology are eligible.