Are you a South African student passionate about building a career in the insurance and financial services industry? The Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) invites applications for its Insurance Sector Student Fund (ISSF) Bursary Programme for 2026. This comprehensive bursary supports financially disadvantaged youth pursuing studies in insurance-related fields, empowering them to thrive in one of South Africa’s key economic sectors. With full funding for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and more, plus mentorship and career opportunities, this programme is your gateway to success. Apply by 20 October 2025 to seize this transformative opportunity!
Why Choose the INSETA ISSF Bursary?
The INSETA ISSF Bursary is more than financial aid—it’s a launchpad for a sustainable career:
- Comprehensive Funding: Covers tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a monthly allowance.
- Career Pathways: Offers mentorship, vacation work, and networking with industry leaders.
- Transformation Focus: Prioritizes youth from disadvantaged backgrounds and students with disabilities.
- Industry Alignment: Prepares you for high-demand roles in South Africa’s insurance and financial services sector.
- Inclusivity: Open to both unemployed and employed students, ensuring equitable access.
This initiative supports South Africa’s economic growth by addressing skills shortages in the insurance value chain while fostering inclusivity and transformation.
Programme Details
- Provider: Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA)
- Funding: Full coverage for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals (for full-time students), and a monthly allowance
- Duration: 1 academic year (renewable based on academic performance)
- Closing Date: 20 October 2025
- Fields of Study:
- Insurance and Risk Management
- Financial Management and Accounting
- Economics and Business Studies
- Actuarial Science
- Information Technology (with relevance to insurance systems)
- Human Resources and Business Administration
- Law (with a focus on commercial, financial, or insurance law)
What the Bursary Covers
The ISSF Bursary provides holistic support to ensure academic success:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage at public universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges.
- Textbooks and Study Materials: Prescribed materials for your course.
- Accommodation and Meals: For full-time students at accredited or registered facilities.
- Monthly Allowance: To cover additional study-related expenses.
For employed students, funding is awarded on a sliding scale, typically covering tuition and books.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be aged 18–35 years.
- Be in Grade 12 (Matric) or currently studying at a public higher education institution (university, university of technology, or TVET college).
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in Mathematics, Accounting, Business Studies, or related subjects.
- Come from a financially disadvantaged background (priority for previously disadvantaged groups).
- Not be receiving other bursary funding (e.g., NSFAS).
- Be studying or intending to study in one of the listed fields at a DHET/CHE-accredited institution.
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply (proof of disability required).
Application Process
Applications are submitted online via specific INSETA forms tailored to different applicant categories. Follow these steps:
- Choose the Correct Form:
- Section A: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) & Strategic Implementation Partners: Apply here
- Section B: Co-Funders (Employers/Companies): Apply here
- Section C: South African Public (Unemployed & Employed Individuals): Apply here
- Prepare Documents (certified copies, not older than 3 months):
- South African ID document.
- Grade 12 results or latest academic transcript.
- Proof of household income (e.g., salary slips, affidavit if unemployed, SASSA letter if applicable).
- Proof of admission or registration at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college.
- Course quotation or fee statement (on institution letterhead).
- Letter of employment (if employed).
- ISSF POPIA consent form (download from INSETA website).
- Label documents as “Initials+Document Name” in a zipped folder.
- Submit Online: Complete the relevant form and upload documents via the provided link.
- Track Progress: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60 days of the closing date.
Enquiries
For assistance, contact INSETA:
- Email: issfenquiries@inseta.org.za
- Website: www.inseta.org.za
- Phone: Check the INSETA website for updated contact details.
Important Notes
- Closing Date: 20 October 2025—late applications will not be accepted.
- Feedback: If no response within 60 days, consider your application unsuccessful.
- No Fees: Applications are free; report any scam requests to INSETA.
- Verification: Successful applicants will undergo qualification and financial checks.
- Inclusivity: Special consideration for students with disabilities and previously disadvantaged groups.
Why This Bursary Matters
- Financial Relief: Removes barriers to education with comprehensive funding.
- Career Opportunities: Connects you to mentorship, internships, and networks in the insurance sector.
- Economic Impact: Builds skills for a critical industry, supporting South Africa’s growth.
- Transformation: Promotes equity by prioritizing disadvantaged youth and students with disabilities.
Conclusion
The INSETA ISSF Bursary Programme for 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for South African youth to pursue studies in insurance, finance, and related fields. With full funding, mentorship, and career-building prospects, this bursary empowers you to contribute to a vital sector while achieving your academic dreams. Apply online by 20 October 2025 via the INSETA portal and take the first step toward a rewarding career in financial services!
