Unemployed Students Can Apply for SASSETA Bursary 2026 – Funding Up to R80,000
SASSETA Opens 2026 Unemployed Bursary Applications for High-Demand Qualifications
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Discretionary Grant – Unemployed Bursary Programme, offering much-needed financial support to unemployed South African students pursuing studies in scarce and critical skills fields.
This bursary is aimed at young South Africans who have secured placement at public universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges and require funding assistance to complete their studies in priority disciplines such as Law (LLB), STEM qualifications, and Veterinary Science.
With rising tuition costs and limited funding options, the SASSETA Unemployed Bursary presents a significant opportunity for eligible students to continue their education in 2026 without the burden of financial strain.
SASSETA 2026 Unemployed Bursary: Key Application Details
Applicants are advised to take note of the following important dates and requirements:
- Application Opening Date: 14 December 2025
- Closing Date: 30 January 2026 at 23:59
- Funding Type: Discretionary Grant – Unemployed Bursary
- Application Method: Email submission only
- Official Submission Email: [email protected]
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Who Is SASSETA and Why This Bursary Matters
SASSETA is responsible for skills development within South Africa’s safety and security sector, including policing, legal services, corrections, forensic services, and private security.
Through its discretionary grants, SASSETA supports students studying in fields that align with national development priorities and workforce shortages. The Unemployed Bursary Programme specifically targets young people who would otherwise be unable to access tertiary education due to financial constraints.
By funding studies in scarce skills areas, SASSETA helps build a skilled workforce while contributing to long-term economic growth and employment creation.
Fields of Study Supported by the SASSETA Bursary
The 2026 bursary focuses on high-demand and scarce skills qualifications, including but not limited to:
Law and Legal Studies
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
STEM Qualifications
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Information Technology
- Data and related technical disciplines
Veterinary Science
- Veterinary Science qualifications at recognised public institutions
Only qualifications offered by accredited public institutions will be funded.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the SASSETA 2026 Unemployed Bursary, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Citizenship and Age
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old
Employment Status
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
Education
- Must have a Matric certificate
- Must have proof of acceptance or registration for 2026 at:
- A public university
- A university of technology
- A public TVET college
Financial Need
- Must submit an affidavit confirming household income and employment status
Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be disqualified.
Funding Coverage and Bursary Value
The SASSETA bursary offers tiered funding depending on the type of institution attended.
Public Universities and Universities of Technology
- Up to R80,000 per year for:
- Registration fees
- Tuition
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Additional allowance: Up to R10,000 for an electronic device (laptop or tablet)
Public TVET Colleges
- Up to R50,000 per year
Distance Learning Institutions
- Up to R35,000 per year
Funding is subject to availability and SASSETA’s internal approval processes.
Required Documents (Very Important)
Applicants must prepare certified copies (not older than six months) of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic record (if applicable)
- Proof of acceptance or registration for 2026
- Affidavit confirming:
- Household income
- Unemployment status
Document Submission Rules
- All documents must be combined into a single PDF
- Email size must not exceed 20MB
- Incorrectly named or missing documents may result in automatic disqualification
How to Apply for the SASSETA 2026 Unemployed Bursary
Follow these steps carefully to avoid errors:
- Email the complete application to:
[email protected] - Submit before 30 January 2026 at 23:59
Applications sent via fax, post, or hand delivery will not be accepted.
Selection Process and Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Verification checks will be conducted
- SASSETA reserves the right not to award all bursaries
- Submission of an application does not guarantee funding
- Funding decisions are final
Applicants are encouraged to double-check all documents before submission.
Why the SASSETA Bursary Is a Major Opportunity
- Covers essential study costs at public institutions
- Supports qualifications with strong employment prospects
- Targets unemployed youth who need financial assistance
- Includes funding for learning devices
- Backed by a recognised national SETA
For students pursuing law, STEM, or veterinary studies, this bursary can be the difference between dropping out and completing a qualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the SASSETA bursary only for unemployed students?
Yes. Only unemployed South African citizens qualify for this bursary.
Can I apply if I am studying at a private institution?
No. Funding is limited to public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges.
Do I need proof of acceptance for 2026?
Yes. Proof of acceptance or registration is mandatory.
Can I submit multiple emails?
No. All documents must be submitted once, in one email, as a single PDF.
How can I get help if I struggle with the application?
You can contact the SASSETA Call Centre at 011 087 5500 for assistance.
