A practical funding opportunity for Speech Therapy and Audiology students entering their final study years
Training to become a speech-language therapist or audiologist is demanding — academically, emotionally, and financially. By the time students reach their third or fourth year, costs often rise just as personal support systems are stretched thin.
The SASLHA Bursary South Africa 2026 exists to support students at exactly this stage. Offered by the South African Speech Language and Hearing Association, the bursary is aimed at undergraduate students who are close to qualifying and who need financial assistance to finish their studies.
With applications closing on 16 February 2026, this guide explains who the bursary is really for, how the selection process works, and what applicants should realistically expect.
What SASLHA Is — and Why This Bursary Exists
The South African Speech Language and Hearing Association (SASLHA) is the professional body representing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in South Africa. Beyond advocacy and professional standards, the organisation plays a role in strengthening access to communication and hearing services across the country.
South Africa continues to face a shortage of qualified professionals in these fields, particularly in under-resourced communities. The Myrtle L Aron Bursary, administered by SASLHA, is one way the organisation supports students who are committed to entering and remaining in the profession.
Rather than funding students from the very beginning, SASLHA focuses this bursary on those who have already demonstrated academic ability and professional commitment — students who are likely to qualify and contribute meaningfully after graduation.
Fields of Study Covered by the SASLHA Bursary
The bursary is strictly limited to two fields:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Audiology
Applicants must be registered for a degree qualification in one of these disciplines at a recognised and accredited South African university.
This bursary does not cover short courses, diplomas, or unrelated health science degrees. The focus is narrow by design, ensuring that funding directly supports the future workforce in speech and hearing services.
Who Is Eligible — and Who This Bursary Is Really Meant For
The eligibility requirements reflect the type of student SASLHA is trying to support.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a SASLHA student member (or register for the free student membership)
- Have completed Matric
- Be studying Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology
- Have completed second or third year
- Be entering third or fourth year in 2026
- Be registered at a South African accredited university
- Show a strong academic record
- Demonstrate financial need
- Commit to not changing degree programmes after applying
In practice, this bursary suits students who are already deep into their training, have clinical exposure, and can clearly explain why they want to stay in the profession.
The inclusion of supervisor testimonials and a short video submission suggests that SASLHA is looking beyond marks alone — they want students who understand the responsibility that comes with the qualification.
FIND MORE INFORMATION HERE: For Students & Community Service Officers | South African Speech Language Hearing Association
How the Application Process Works (and What to Prepare Early)
Applications for the SASLHA Bursary South Africa 2026 must be submitted online via the official SASLHA application platform.
Applicants are also asked to indicate that they heard about the bursary via www.dailyfeed.co.za, which helps SASLHA track outreach effectiveness.
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Certified full academic record
- Testimonial from a clinical supervisor or relevant professional (on letterhead)
- Three months’ recent bank statements
- A signed affidavit confirming document authenticity
- A short video (max 2 minutes, under 10MB) answering:Who you are, why you deserve the bursary, and how you plan to contribute to the profession
The video requirement can feel intimidating, but it’s best approached honestly rather than formally. SASLHA isn’t looking for polished production — they’re looking for clarity, motivation, and sincerity.
What the Bursary Covers — and What It Doesn’t
SASLHA does not publicly specify a fixed monetary value for the bursary. Funding decisions may vary based on available resources and individual circumstances.
What’s clear is that the bursary is intended to support educational costs, not serve as a full-cost scholarship. Students should still plan for living expenses and additional fees through other means.
This transparency matters: the bursary is meaningful, but it works best when combined with other support.
Important Dates and Contact Details
- Closing date: 16 February 2026
- Application method: Online submission only
Contact SASLHA:
📞 086 111 3297
📧 ad***@*******co.za
Applicants are asked not to contact SASLHA once the bursary has closed.
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ALSO SEE: How to Write a Bursary Motivation Letter 2026: A Practical Guide That Works
Frequently Asked Questions
Can first- or second-year students apply?
No. Only students entering third or fourth year in 2026 are eligible.
Is SASLHA membership compulsory?
Yes, but student membership is free and can be completed before applying.
Is the bursary only for financially needy students?
Yes. Financial need is a core consideration alongside academic performance.
Does the video need to be professionally recorded?
No. A simple phone or laptop recording is sufficient.
Can I change my degree after applying?
No. Degree changes are not allowed once an application is submitted.
Final Thoughts
The SASLHA Bursary South Africa 2026 is not designed to attract mass applications — and that’s intentional. It targets students who are already invested in speech-language pathology or audiology and who plan to carry that commitment into their professional lives.
For students nearing qualification, this bursary can ease financial pressure at a critical point and provide recognition from the profession they’re about to enter.
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