Article written by Ontonda Teczo on 17 December 2025 at 21:05

SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 are open for South Africans aged 18–35 studying at public institutions. Apply before 30 January 2026.

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SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 Open New Doors for South Africans

SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 are now officially open, offering unemployed South African youth a powerful opportunity to access higher education and reposition their future.

For many young people, financial barriers delay or completely block access to tertiary studies. This bursary programme, funded through SASSETA’s Discretionary Grants, is designed to remove that obstacle and support youth who are ready to study but lack funding.

Applications opened on 14 December 2025 and close on 30 January 2026 at 23:59.

Why the SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 Matter

The SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 are not just about funding tuition. They are about rebuilding pathways into careers that are critical to South Africa’s safety, justice, and economic systems.

This bursary focuses on:

Youth who are currently unemployed
Qualifications linked to high-demand occupations
Public universities and tertiary institutions

By prioritising these areas, SASSETA ensures that funded students are aligned with real workforce needs rather than oversaturated fields.

About SASSETA and Its Role in Skills Development

The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) operates under the Skills Development Act and plays a key role in developing skills within sectors such as:

Law and legal services
Policing and law enforcement
Corrections and justice
Defence and security services

SASSETA has funded thousands of bursaries, learnerships, and internships across South Africa, making it a trusted institution in skills development and youth empowerment.

This bursary programme follows SASSETA Bursary Policy Version 6, ensuring fairness, transparency, and compliance.

More information about SASSETA can be found at:
https://www.sasseta.org.za

Fields Covered by SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027

The SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 prioritise qualifications aligned with national skills shortages.

Priority Fields Include:

LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
Veterinary Science
STEM qualifications (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

Additional High-Demand Qualifications:

SASSETA may also fund other qualifications listed on its official approved occupation list, as aligned with DHET priorities.

Important note: You may only apply for qualifications approved by SASSETA.

Who Qualifies for SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027

To apply, applicants must meet all eligibility requirements.

You must:

Be a South African citizen
Be between 18 and 35 years old
Be unemployed at the time of application
Be registered or accepted for 2026 at a public tertiary institution
Be studying an approved qualification

Preference Is Given To:

Applicants from households earning R350 000 or less per year
The missing middle (R350 000 – R600 000 per year)
Youth from marginalised communities

How to Apply for SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027

Applications must be submitted by email only.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

Download the official SASSETA bursary application form from the SASSETA website
Complete the form fully and accurately
Compile all supporting documents into one submission
Ensure total attachments do not exceed 20MB
Email your application to:
bursaries2026@sasseta.org.za
Submit before 30 January 2026 at 23:59

No hand-delivered, couriered, duplicated, or password-protected applications will be accepted.

Compulsory Documents Checklist

Applicants must submit certified copies of:

South African ID (not older than 6 months)
Matric certificate or highest qualification
Proof of registration or acceptance for 2026
Parent or guardian ID
Affidavit confirming household income and unemployment status

Missing documents result in automatic disqualification.

What Happens After You Apply?

SASSETA follows a strict three-phase process:

Compliance checking
Evaluation
Adjudication

Only fully compliant applications are considered. If no response is received within 90 days after closing, the application should be considered unsuccessful.

Career Opportunities After This Bursary

The SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 position beneficiaries for long-term career growth, including:

Entry into legal and justice-related professions
STEM-based careers
Public service and governance roles
SETA-funded internships and learnerships
Postgraduate funding opportunities

This bursary is not only funding—it is strategic career positioning.

Useful Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I already receive NSFAS?
No. Applicants must not be funded by NSFAS or any other bursary.

Can employed youth apply?
No. This bursary is strictly for unemployed applicants.

Can I apply without proof of acceptance?
No. Proof of registration or acceptance is compulsory.

Is there a stipend?
Funding amounts depend on SASSETA’s approved bursary limits.

What is the closing date?
30 January 2026 at 23:59.

Final Thoughts

The SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 offer unemployed South African youth a real chance to access education, gain scarce skills, and build sustainable careers.

If you meet the criteria and are serious about your future, apply early and ensure your application is complete.

For more SETA bursaries, learnerships, and skills programmes, visit:
https://seta-services.co.za

SASSETA Unemployed Youth Bursaries 2026/2027 Offer a Powerful Second Chance