NSFAS, CETA, and SETA Student Bursaries in South Africa: Complete Guide for Learners and Students in 2026

 

In South Africa, students and learners face increasing financial pressure due to rising education costs. Fortunately, bursaries like NSFAS, CETA, and SETA-funded programs provide crucial support for tuition, accommodation, transport, and daily living expenses.

This comprehensive guide explains everything students need to know about NSFAS, CETA, and SETA bursaries in 2026 — including eligibility, application processes, required documents, tips to increase your chances, and common mistakes to avoid.

Whether you are a high school learner, TVET college student, or university student, this article will help you access funding and focus on your education without financial stress.

 

Why Student Bursaries Are Critical

 

Bursaries go beyond financial support. They also:

 

Reduce reliance on loans and personal debt

Enable students to focus fully on studies

Encourage skills development in key industries

Offer opportunities to gain work experience through learnerships and internship programs

Improve employability post-graduation

With the correct bursary, students can cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, transport, and even meals — which are essential for academic success.

 

Overview of Major Student Bursaries in South Africa

1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

Who it’s for: South African citizens with financial need, usually studying at public universities or TVET colleges

Funding covers: Tuition, registration fees, accommodation, books, transport, and allowance for daily expenses

 

 

Eligibility:

 

 

Must be a South African citizen

Financial need assessed through family income

Must be accepted or enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution

Must meet academic requirements for your program

 

How NSFAS Works:

 

Students must register on the myNSFAS portal

Successful applicants are funded directly to the university/college

Status updates can be tracked on the portal

Tip: Regularly check your application status to move from “Awaiting Registration” to “Approved for Funding.”

2. CETA (Construction Education and Training Authority) Bursaries

Who it’s for: Students studying construction, engineering, or related technical programs

Funding covers: Tuition fees, learning materials, sometimes stipends, and workplace training programs

 

Eligibility:

 

Enrolled in a relevant technical or tertiary course

South African citizen

Must meet minimum academic and technical requirements

CETA bursaries often include learnership components, combining education with workplace experience — ideal for learners looking to gain practical skills while earning a qualification.

3. SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) Bursaries

Who it’s for: Students pursuing industry-specific skills in sectors such as business, IT, hospitality, logistics, and health

Funding covers: Tuition fees, registration, learning materials, and in some cases stipends

Eligibility:

South African citizen

Enrolled in programs aligned with the specific SETA sector

Academic performance requirements may apply

SETA bursaries are often linked to skills development programs, internships, or learnerships, giving students both financial support and practical experience.

Who Can Apply for Bursaries

Student bursaries are usually available for:

High school learners preparing for tertiary study

TVET college students

University students (undergraduate and postgraduate)

Students enrolled in distance learning or part-time programs

 

Key Requirements:

 

Certified South African ID

Proof of registration at a recognised institution

Academic transcripts or school results

Parental or guardian information (for financial assessment)

Some bursaries may also require students to commit to working in a specific sector after graduation, particularly SETA-funded bursaries.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for NSFAS, CETA, and SETA Bursaries

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all documents before applying:

Certified copy of ID

Proof of registration or acceptance at a tertiary institution

Academic transcripts or report cards

Proof of family income (for NSFAS)

Bank confirmation letter for stipend payments

Any additional documents required by the bursary

Step 2: Research the Right Bursary

Check official portals: NSFAS, CETA, SETA websites

Look for bursaries aligned with your study field

Read eligibility criteria carefully

Note application deadlines

Step 3: Register and Submit Applications

Create accounts on the official bursary portals

Fill out applications accurately and completely

Attach all supporting documents

Keep copies of your submissions for reference

Tip: Early applications increase chances due to high demand.

Step 4: Follow Up on Your Application

Regularly check portal status updates

Respond promptly to any requests from the bursary provider

Confirm acceptance once awarded

Step 5: Prepare for Additional Requirements

Some bursaries require:

Interviews or aptitude assessments

Commitment to sector work placement (especially for SETA or CETA)

Periodic academic progress reporting

Students should stay organized and proactive to meet all requirements.

How to Increase Your Chances of Securing a Bursary

Maintain Strong Academic Performance – Most bursaries have minimum grade requirements.

Provide Complete and Accurate Documents – Missing information may lead to rejection.

Apply Early and Widely – Don’t limit yourself to a single bursary.

Write a Strong Motivation Letter – Highlight why you deserve funding and your career goals.

Follow Instructions Carefully – Every bursary has unique submission requirements.

Seek Guidance – Speak with teachers, career counsellors, or ejobejob.co.za for support.

Common Mistakes Students Make

Submitting incomplete applications

Missing deadlines

Using incorrect or unofficial channels

Failing to provide proof of financial need

Not committing to bursary obligations

Avoid these mistakes to maximize your chances of success.

Balancing Studies and Bursary Obligations

Many bursaries, especially SETA and CETA, require students to:

Maintain minimum academic standards

Participate in work placements or learnerships

Submit regular progress reports

Tips for Success:

Plan schedules carefully

Communicate with mentors and supervisors

Prioritize both studies and bursary commitments

Real-Life Examples

Sipho, a TVET student, received an NSFAS bursary covering tuition and accommodation, enabling him to focus on his studies and complete a hospitality learnership simultaneously.

Lindiwe, studying engineering, received a CETA bursary. She completed a practical placement at a construction firm while earning a stipend.

Thabo, pursuing IT, secured a SETA bursary linked to an internship, gaining hands-on experience and building industry connections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply for more than one bursary at a time?
A1: Yes, but ensure you can meet the obligations for each.

Q2: Are bursaries only for full-time students?
A2: Some are open to part-time or distance learners, check specific eligibility.

Q3: What happens if I fail a course?
A3: Most bursaries require minimum academic performance; failing may affect continuation of funding.

Q4: Are bursaries repaid?
A4: NSFAS is a loan-to-bursary scheme for some students. CETA and SETA bursaries usually do not require repayment but may require service in the sector.

Q5: How do I track NSFAS application status?
A5: Use the myNSFAS portal to monitor updates from “Awaiting Registration” to “Approved for Funding.”

Future of Student Bursaries in South Africa

Increasing availability of sector-specific bursaries

Growth of online applications and digital portals

More integration with learnerships and internships

Focus on youth skills development and employability

Bursaries are no longer just financial aid; they are career-building opportunities.

Additional Tips for Students

Start preparing documents early

Stay informed about application windows

Seek mentorship and career guidance

Explore bursaries aligned with your career goals

Combine bursaries with part-time work, learnerships, or internships for maximum growth

Final Thoughts

NSFAS, CETA, and SETA bursaries are vital tools for South African students. They provide financial support, practical experience, and skills development while allowing students to focus on education.

With proper preparation, patience, and persistence, learners and students can access funding, build skills, and secure a brighter future.

For bursary guidance or enquiries, contact the ejobejob team:
Email: info@ejobejob.co.za