SASSETA Bursary 2026: Application, Requirements & Details

SASSETA Bursary 2026: Applications Now Open for Unemployed South African Youth

If you're a young, unemployed South African looking for a way to fund your studies next year, listen up. 

The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) has opened applications for its 2026 Discretionary Grant Bursary, and it could be the support you need.

This bursary is specifically for unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35 who are registered or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college in 2026. 

Let's get into the details so you know exactly what this opportunity is about.

What Fields of Study does SASSETA Bursary Cover for 2026?

SASSETA is offering bursaries for a wide range of qualifications. While they'll consider all fields listed as "Occupations in High Demand," they are specifically giving priority to students in these areas:

1. LLB (Law Degree)

2. Veterinary Science

3. STEM Qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

They also have funding set aside for other qualifications that are in high demand or listed in their Sector Skills Plan. 

The key thing is this: you must check the official list of eligible qualifications on the SASSETA website advert.

 If your course isn't on that list, your application won't be considered.

Who should apply? (The Eligibility Check)

To make sure you qualify, you need to meet these points:

• Be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35.

• Be currently unemployed.

• Have proof of acceptance or registration at a public university or college for the 2026 academic year.

• Your household income situation will be considered. They state a preference for applicants from the "missing middle" (household income R350,001 to R600,000 per year) and lower-income households (up to R350,000 per year).

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What documents do you need to prepare for SASSETA Bursary?

Getting your documents ready is the most important step. You need to compile all of these into a single email. Make sure your certified copies are not older than 6 months.

1. Your certified ID copy.

2. Your certified Matric certificate/statement of results or highest qualification.

3. Your Acceptance Letter or Proof of Registration for 2026.

4. Certified ID copy of your parent or guardian.

5. A valid affidavit that confirms your total household income, all sources of income, and the employment status of everyone in the house.

How and when to apply for SASSETA 2026 Bursary

The application process has strict rules. If you don't follow them, your application will be disqualified immediately.

Application Dates:

• Opens: 14 December 2025

• Closes: 30 January 2026 at 23:59 (midnight)

How to Apply:

1. Download the official application form from the SASSETA website. Look for the "Discretionary Grants" banner or section.

2. Fill in the form without making any changes or modifications.

3. Compile ALL the required documents listed above into one email. The total size must not exceed 20MB. Do not use password-protected files or links.

4. Send your single application email to: Bursaries2026@SASSETA.ORG.ZA

Crucial Notes to Avoid Disqualification:

• Only one application per person. Duplicate emails will not be considered.

• They do not accept hand-delivered, posted, or couriered applications. Email is the only way.

• Incomplete applications or those missing key documents will be disqualified without any follow-up.

• Submit well before the deadline. A late submission, even by a minute, means you're out.

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What happens after you apply?

The selection has a three-phase process: compliance check, evaluation, and adjudication. If you are successful, you will need to sign a bursary agreement with SASSETA and provide another affidavit confirming you are unemployed and not receiving any other bursary (like NSFAS).

If you don't hear back from them within 90 days after the closing date (around the end of April 2026), you should consider your application unsuccessful.

If you have questions before the closing date, you can contact them at DG@sasseta.org.za.

This is a competitive bursary with limited spaces, but it’s a great chance if you meet all the criteria. Start getting your documents in order now so you're ready to apply as soon as the window opens in December. Good luck