The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is currently offering Bursaries to South African Unemployed Students for 2026.
The SASSETA Bursary 2026 offers practical support to students who sit on the edge of access to higher education, helping where financial barriers are most felt. It comes at a time when youth unemployment is still deeply entrenched and study costs are rising faster than household incomes.
What the SASSETA Bursary Is and Who It’s Really For
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is offering the Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary 2026 to South African students who are currently unemployed and planning to study in 2026.
This is not a general scholarship open to everyone. It is specifically aimed at:
- Young people aged 18 to 35
- Students from poor or missing-middle households
- Applicants who already face structural barriers to higher education
SASSETA’s focus reflects a broader reality: skills shortages exist in South Africa, but access to education remains uneven. This bursary attempts to narrow that gap by prioritising high-demand fields rather than funding any qualification at random.
Fields of Study That SASSETA Is Willing to Fund
Unlike some bursaries that offer vague promises, the SASSETA Bursary is clear about where funding is likely to go.
Preferred fields include:
- LLB (Law)
- STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Veterinary Science
- Occupations in High Demand, as listed by the Department of Higher Education and Training
This approach reflects labour market realities. These are areas where South Africa consistently reports shortages, and where graduates have a stronger chance of long-term employability — though no bursary can guarantee employment.
Private institutions may be considered, but only if the qualification is not offered at a public institution, which reinforces SASSETA’s focus on cost-effective access.
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What the SASSETA Bursary Covers (And What It Doesn’t)
One of the strengths of the SASSETA Bursary 2026 is its differentiated funding structure. Support depends on the type of study.
Full-Time University / University of Technology Students
Funding up to R80 000, covering:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Accommodation
- Meals
- An 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:
- Printing
- Editing
- Dissertation or thesis-related costs
SASSETA may also consider outstanding student debt or additional funding, but this depends on budget availability and should not be assumed.
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Duration, Limits, and the Reality of Funding
The bursary is awarded for the minimum duration of the qualification plus one additional year.
For example, a three-year degree may be funded for up to four years.
This extra year recognises that many students face delays due to financial or personal pressures. However, it is not unlimited support. Progress and compliance still matter.
SASSETA is also clear about uncertainty: funding depends on discretionary grant availability. This honesty makes the programme more credible, not less.
Eligibility and Documents: Where Most Applications Fail
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be 18–35 years old
- Have completed Matric
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Be studying or accepted to study in 2026 at a recognised public university, university of technology, or TVET college
- Not be funded by another SASSETA programme in the same financial year
Preference is given to:
- Households earning below R350 000 per year
- Missing-middle households (R350 000.01 – R600 000)
- Students from marginalised communities
All supporting documents must be certified (not older than six months) and the total file size must be under 20MB. Incomplete applications are automatically disqualified — a common and avoidable outcome.
How to Apply for the SASSETA Bursary 2026
- Download and complete the SASSETA Unemployed Bursary Application Form 2026
- Email the completed form and all supporting documents to:
📧 Bursaries@SASSETA.org.za - Use this subject line exactly:
SASSETA Bursary 2026
Closing date:
30 January 2026 at 23:59
Late applications will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 90 days after closing.
APPLY HERE for the SASSETA Bursary 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the SASSETA Bursary only for first-year students?
No. Continuing students may apply if they meet all eligibility requirements.
Can unemployed graduates apply for postgraduate funding?
Yes. Masters and research students may receive funding for research-related costs.
Does this bursary guarantee a job after graduation?
No. The bursary supports education, not employment placement.
Can I apply if I’m still waiting for acceptance?
You must submit proof of acceptance or registration for 2026.
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