If you are an unemployed South African youth with academic potential but limited financial resources, the SASSETA Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary 2026 could be your gateway to higher education.
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is offering bursary funding for the 2026 academic year to support studies in high-demand and priority fields, while reducing financial barriers that prevent deserving students from accessing tertiary education.
Bursary Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | SASSETA Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
| Funding Body | SASSETA |
| Target Group | Unemployed South African students |
| Study Location | South Africa |
| Application Method | |
| Closing Date | 30 January 2026 (23:59) |
About SASSETA
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is responsible for skills development in sectors such as:
- Policing
- Justice and legal services
- Corrections
- Defence and intelligence
- Private security
Through discretionary grants and bursaries, SASSETA supports education, transformation, and skills development aligned with national priorities.
Fields of Study Supported
Bursaries will be awarded preferably to students studying in the following priority areas:
- LLB (Law)
- STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
- Veterinary Science
- Occupations in High Demand, as published by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
⚠️ Priority is given to qualifications aligned with national and sector skills needs.
What the SASSETA Bursary Covers
Full-Time University / University of Technology Students
Funding up to R80 000, covering:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed books
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Electronic device (laptop or tablet + mouse) up to R10 000
Distance Learning Students
Funding up to R35 000, covering:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Books
Public TVET College Students
Funding up to R50 000, covering:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Accommodation
- Meals
Masters and Research Students
Funding may be claimed for research-related costs, including:
- Printing
- Editing
- Dissertation or thesis expenses
📌 SASSETA may also consider outstanding student debt or additional funding, subject to availability of funds.
Duration of Funding
Funding is provided for:
- The minimum duration of the qualification, plus
- One additional year (where required)
📌 Example: A 3-year qualification may be funded for up to 4 years.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:
General Requirements
- South African citizen
- Aged 18–35 years
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Completed Matric
Academic Requirements
- Studying or registered to study in 2026
- Qualification must fall within the supported fields
- Accepted or registered at a recognised public:
- University
- University of Technology
- Public TVET College
⚠️ Private institutions will only be considered if the qualification is not offered at public institutions.
Additional Conditions
- Not participating in any other SASSETA-funded programme during the current financial year
- Must read and agree to the SASSETA Bursary Policy 2025/2026
Preference Will Be Given To:
- Students from poor households (combined income below R350 000 per year)
- Missing middle students (household income between R350 000.01 – R600 000)
- Students from marginalised communities
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document (certified, not older than 6 months)
- Matric certificate or final results
- Most recent academic record (if currently studying)
- Proof of acceptance or registration for 2026 (on institution letterhead)
- Proof of household income and employment status
- Affidavit confirming total household income and income sources
⚠️ Important:
- All documents must be certified (≤ 6 months old)
- Total email attachment size must not exceed 20MB
- Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Download and complete the SASSETA Unemployed Bursary Application Form 2026.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Email your completed application form and all supporting documents to:
📌 Email Subject Line:
SASSETA Bursary 2026
Closing Date (Important)
📅 30 January 2026 at 23:59
Late applications will NOT be considered.
Selection & Feedback
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 90 days after the closing date
- If you do not receive feedback within this period, please consider your application unsuccessful
Why Apply for the SASSETA Bursary?
This bursary offers:
- Financial access to higher education
- Support for high-demand and scarce skills
- Reduced student debt burden
- Increased employability in priority sectors
- A chance to focus on your studies without financial stress
Related Opportunities on SETACareers
- Latest SETA Bursaries 2026
- SETA Learnerships Closing Soon
- Government Internships for TVET Graduates
- Unemployed Youth Opportunities in South Africa
