SASSETA Bursary South Africa For 2026. In a country striving to uplift skills and create opportunities, the SASSETA Bursary South Africa for 2026 stands out as a beacon of hope for many aspiring professionals. This bursary programme, offered by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA), is designed to bridge the financial gap for deserving South African students eager to pursue careers in the safety and security sector and beyond.
Whether you are aiming to study LLB, Nursing, IT Software Development, or Psychology, the SASSETA Bursary could be your key to unlocking a brighter future. Below, we delve into all the crucial aspects of this bursary: from who qualifies, to how much support you can expect, and finally, how to submit a compelling application.
What is SASSETA?
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) was established through the merger of two significant bodies: the Police, Private Security, Legal and Correctional Services Sector Education and Training Authority (POSLEC SETA) and the Diplomacy, Intelligence, Defence and Trade Education and Training Authority (DIDTETA).
SASSETA is one of 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa. Each SETA oversees a particular industry, ensuring that the skills needed in that sector are developed through vocational programmes such as learnerships, apprenticeships, internships, and targeted skills initiatives.
The primary goal of SASSETA is to foster continuous learning and skills development within the safety and security industry, ultimately contributing to South Africa’s economic growth and stability.
About the SASSETA Bursary – Fields Covered
The SASSETA Bursary South Africa for 2026 is more than just a financial aid programme; it’s a strategic investment in the country’s workforce. Through its Discretionary Grants 1st Funding Window, SASSETA invites students to apply for funding in various critical fields.
Fields Supported by the SASSETA Bursary
Here’s a quick table to summarise the fields of study eligible for the SASSETA Bursary:
| Eligible Fields of Study |
|---|
| Artisan and Engineering Programmes (Economic Reconstruction) |
| Clinical Social Work |
| IT Programme Analysis |
| IT Programme Development |
| IT Software Development |
| LLB (Bachelor of Laws) |
| Nursing |
| Paralegal Studies |
| Pharmacy |
| Psychology |
| Security Management |
This broad range ensures that the bursary programme addresses not just traditional safety roles but also incorporates disciplines critical to modern security frameworks, including information technology and healthcare.
What Does the SASSETA Bursary Cover?
The SASSETA Bursary is tailored to relieve students of substantial financial burdens. Here’s what you can expect in terms of support:
- Full-Time Studies: Up to R80,000 per student annually, covering tuition fees, textbooks, on-campus accommodation (or university-approved housing), and meals.
- Part-Time or Distance Learning: Up to R35,000 per student, focusing on tuition fees and textbooks.
Important Note: This bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time, with the possibility of renewal. To qualify for renewal, recipients must pass at least 60% of their modules, including their major subject. This structure ensures accountability and encourages students to remain committed to their studies.
Eligibility Criteria for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa
Before applying, it is essential to ensure that you meet all the entry requirements set by SASSETA. Applications that do not fulfil these criteria will not be considered.
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Aged between 18 and 35 years old.
- Must have completed Matric (Grade 12).
- Must be registered or accepted to study in one of the listed fields at a recognised public University, University of Technology, or Public TVET College. (Private institutions only considered if the course is not offered at public institutions.)
- Household income should not exceed R600,000 per annum.
- Must be unemployed.
- Not currently participating in any other SASSETA-funded programme (internship, learnership, or skills programme) within the current financial year.
Additionally, preference is given to:
- Female students,
- Students living with disabilities,
- Students who do not have any other bursary funding or NSFAS support.
How to Apply for the SASSETA Bursary
Step 1: Online Application
All applications for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa must be submitted online via the official application portal:
When prompted, enter “Zabusaries.com” in the field asking how you heard about this opportunity.
Step 2: Prepare and Upload Supporting Documents
Your application must be accompanied by clear, certified copies of the following documents (no document should be older than 6 months, and each file must not exceed 20 MB):
- ID Document
- Matric certificate or statement of results
- Proof of acceptance or registration for the 2026 academic year on your institution’s letterhead.
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of household income:
- Latest payslips if employed,
- Affidavit if unemployed or self-employed,
- Proof of pension or social grant if applicable.
Incomplete or incorrectly uploaded documents will lead to automatic disqualification.
Step 3: Check Deadlines
The closing date for the 2026 application cycle is not yet announced, so it’s wise to prepare your documents early and regularly check the SASSETA website for updates. Late submissions will not be accepted
Contact Details for SASSETA Bursary Queries
If you have questions or need clarity regarding your application, reach out to SASSETA directly:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 011 087 5555 / 011 087 5556 / 011 087 5623 |
| [email protected] |
Why Apply for the SASSETA Bursary South Africa?
With the rising cost of higher education in South Africa, financial barriers often prevent talented students from reaching their full potential. The SASSETA Bursary not only provides monetary relief but also ensures that critical sectors such as policing, social work, legal studies, healthcare, and cybersecurity are continually supplied with fresh, skilled professionals.
By investing in these areas, SASSETA plays a direct role in enhancing the safety and economic stability of the country. For students, it means the opportunity to graduate debt-free and focus entirely on building a meaningful career.
FAQs About SASSETA Bursary
Can I apply for the SASSETA Bursary if I already have NSFAS funding?
No. The SASSETA Bursary South Africa is specifically targeted at students who do not have existing bursaries or NSFAS support, to extend opportunities to as many individuals as possible.
What happens if I fail some of my modules during the year?
If you fail to pass at least 60% of your modules, including your major, you risk losing renewal of the bursary for the following academic year. It’s crucial to maintain strong academic performance.
Can private college students apply?
Yes, but only if the specific course you are pursuing is not available at any public university or TVET college. Otherwise, preference is always given to students enrolled at public institutions.
Conclusion
The SASSETA Bursary South Africa for 2026 is more than just a scholarship; it’s a gateway to a secure, impactful career in fields that directly shape the nation’s safety, legal systems, healthcare, and technological security. If you meet the criteria, don’t miss this chance to lessen your financial burden and step confidently into a profession that matters.
