The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) is thrilled to announce the Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary for the 2026 academic year. This opportunity is designed to empower unemployed South African students by removing financial barriers to higher education in priority and high-demand fields. Applications are open until 30 January 2026, so don’t miss your chance to apply.
About the Opportunity
SASSETA is committed to supporting the educational aspirations of young South Africans. The Discretionary Grants – Unemployed Bursary aims to assist students in pursuing higher education in critical fields such as LLB, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Veterinary Science, and other occupations in high demand as identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Closing Dates
The application deadline is 30 January 2026 at 23:59. Late applications will not be considered.
Key Responsibilities
Applicants are expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress and adhere to the rules and regulations of their chosen institutions.
Requirements/Qualifications
To be eligible for this bursary, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens aged between 18 and 35 years.
- Have completed Matric.
- Be studying or registered to study in 2026 in one of the specified fields.
- Be registered or accepted at a recognized public University, University of Technology, or public TVET College. Private institutions may be considered if the course is unavailable at public institutions.
- Come from a household with a combined income below R350,000 per year or be classified as missing middle students with a combined household income between R350,000.01 and R600,000 per year.
- Be from marginalized communities.
Benefits
The bursary provides comprehensive funding based on the type of study:
- Full-Time University/University of Technology Students: Up to R80,000 covering registration, tuition, books, accommodation, and meals.
- Distance Learning Students: Up to R35,000 covering registration, tuition, and books.
- Public TVET College Students: Up to R50,000 covering registration, tuition, books, accommodation, and meals.
- Masters and Research Students: Funding for research-related expenses such as printing, editing, and thesis costs.
Additional funding or assistance with outstanding student debt may be considered, subject to availability.
Duration of Funding
Funding is provided for the minimum duration of the qualification plus one additional year, for example, a 3-year qualification may be funded for up to 4 years.
Posted: 16 December 2025
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