The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is inviting unemployed South African students to apply for its Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary 2026. This funding window supports studies in priority and high-demand fields, including LLB, STEM qualifications, Veterinary Science and other occupations in high demand. Applications close on 30 January 2026 at 23:59.
At a glance
- Provider: SASSETA (Safety and Security SETA)
- Study level: University, University of Technology, public TVET Colleges, and selected distance learning
- Fields: LLB, STEM, Veterinary Science and other occupations in high demand
- Who can apply: Unemployed South African citizens aged 18–35
- Funding: Up to R80 000 per year (university), R50 000 (TVET) or R35 000 (distance learning) plus device support for some categories
- Closing date: 30 January 2026 (23:59)
Who is SASSETA?
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is responsible for skills development and training within the safety and security sector in South Africa. Through its bursary and discretionary grants programmes, SASSETA supports young people to study in fields that are critical for justice, security, social development and public safety.
What the SASSETA bursary covers
- University / University of Technology (full-time): up to R80 000 per year for registration, tuition, books, accommodation and meals, plus an electronic device (laptop or tablet) up to R10 000.
- Distance learning students: up to R35 000 per year for registration, tuition and books.
- Public TVET College students: up to R50 000 per year for registration, tuition, books, accommodation and meals.
- Postgraduate (Masters / research): funding for research-related costs such as printing, editing and dissertation expenses.
Fields of study
- LLB and law-related degrees
- STEM qualifications – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
- Veterinary Science
- Occupations in High Demand (OHD) as listed by the Department of Higher Education and Training
Who can apply? (Eligibility)
- South African citizen.
- Between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Unemployed at the time of application.
- Completed Matric.
- Accepted or registered for 2026 at a recognised public University, University of Technology or public TVET College (private institutions may be considered only if the programme is not offered at public institutions).
- Intending to study within the listed priority fields.
- Not currently funded through any other SASSETA programme in the same financial year.
- Preference for applicants from poor and working-class households (combined income below R350 000 per year), missing middle (up to R600 000), and marginalised communities.
- Willing to comply with SASSETA bursary policies and reporting requirements.
Documents to prepare
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than 6 months).
- Certified copy of Matric certificate or final Grade 12 results.
- Certified copy of latest academic record (if currently studying).
- Proof of 2026 registration or acceptance at a public university, university of technology or TVET college.
- Proof of household income (salary slips, sworn affidavits for unemployed guardians, or SASSA statements).
- Completed SASSETA Unemployed Bursary Application Form 2026.
Key dates
- Closing date: 30 January 2026 at 23:59.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to apply
- Download and complete the SASSETA Unemployed Bursary Application Form 2026 from the SASSETA website.
- Attach all supporting documents as listed above.
- Email the completed application and documents to the official SASSETA bursary email address as indicated on the form.
- Use the correct subject line (for example: “SASSETA Bursary 2026”) to ensure your application is routed correctly.
After you apply
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within the timeframe indicated in SASSETA’s bursary communication. If you do not receive any feedback after the specified period, consider your application unsuccessful. Always keep copies of all documents submitted for your own records.