SASSETA invites South African unemployed students to apply for the Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary 2026.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 January 2026 (23:59)
Bursary Location: South Africa
SASSETA Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary 2026
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is inviting unemployed South African students to apply for the Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary for the 2026 academic year.
This bursary aims to support young people who want to pursue higher education in priority and high-demand fields, while addressing financial barriers that prevent access to tertiary education.
Fields of Study Supported
Bursaries will be awarded preferably for studies in the following areas:
- LLB
- STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
- Veterinary Science
- Occupations in High Demand, as published by the Department of Higher Education and Training
What the SASSETA Bursary Covers
The bursary provides funding based 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 and 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 expenses, including:
- Printing
- Editing
- Thesis or dissertation costs
SASSETA may also consider additional funding or outstanding student debt, subject to the availability of funds.
Duration of Funding
Bursaries will be awarded for a period not exceeding the minimum duration of the qualification plus one additional year.
For example, a 3-year qualification may be funded for up to 4 years.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Aged 18 to 35 years
- Completed Matric
- Studying or registered to study in 2026 within one of the listed fields
- Registered or accepted at a recognised public University, University of Technology, or public TVET College
- Private institutions may only be considered if the course is not offered at public institutions
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Not participating in any other SASSETA-funded programme during the current financial year
- Preference will be given to:
- Students from poor households (combined income below R350 000 per year)
- Missing middle students (combined household income between R350 000.01 and R600 000 per year)
- Students from marginalised communities
- Must read and agree to the SASSETA Bursary Policy 2025/2026
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear copies of the following documents:
- Certified copy of ID document (not older than 6 months)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate or final results
- Certified copy of most recent academic record (if currently studying)
- Proof of acceptance or registration for 2026 (institution letterhead)
- Proof of household income and employment status
- Affidavit confirming total household income and all income sources
⚠️ Important:
- All documents must be certified (not older than 6 months)
- Total document size must not exceed 20MB
- Incomplete applications will be disqualified
How to Apply
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
30 January 2026 at 23:59
Late applications will not be accepted.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 90 days after the closing date.
If you do not receive feedback within this period, please regard your application as unsuccessful.