ASSET (Association for Educational Transformation) South Africa Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on ASSET (Association for Educational Transformation) South Africa Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about education, community development, and academic excellence but facing financial barriers to further study? The ASSET South Africa Bursary Programme 2026/2027 offers much-needed financial support to deserving learners and students who wish to pursue tertiary studies and improve their future prospects. ASSET is a respected non-profit organisation committed to transforming education in South Africa by supporting learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and strengthening access to quality education opportunities.
The ASSET Bursary is designed to assist academically deserving students by covering essential study-related costs, which may include tuition fees, learning materials, and other approved educational expenses. Beyond financial support, ASSET focuses on long-term educational transformation by empowering students to succeed academically and contribute positively to their communities. This bursary is particularly suited for students who demonstrate commitment, leadership potential, and a strong desire to overcome socio-economic challenges through education.
By applying for the ASSET South Africa Bursary 2026/2027, students gain more than just financial assistance, they become part of an initiative dedicated to educational upliftment, skills development, and social impact across South Africa.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to learn more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the ASSET (Association for Educational Transformation) South Africa Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About ASSET (Association for Educational Transformation)
The Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET) is a respected non-profit organisation based in the Western Cape. Established in January 2003, ASSET evolved from the bursary programme originally created by the South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) in 1972. For decades, SAIRR played a pivotal role in supporting disadvantaged South African students, laying the foundation for ASSET’s ongoing mission.
Today, ASSET continues this legacy by supporting approximately 500 students each year, ensuring that financially disadvantaged but academically deserving learners can access quality tertiary education. The organisation’s work is made possible through generous funding from local, national, and international donors, all committed to transforming lives through education.
About the ASSET South Africa Bursary Programme 2026/2027
Fields Covered
ASSET is inviting applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme, aimed at supporting students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification.
The bursary is available for studies towards a:
- Degree
- Diploma
- Higher Certificate
All fields of study are considered, provided the qualification is offered at an approved public tertiary institution within the Western Cape.
Funding is awarded through the ASSET Educational Trust (AET), as well as contributions from individuals, trusts, and organisations that partner with ASSET to invest in the future of Western Cape students.
ASSET Bursary Coverage Value, Selection Criteria & Conditions
The value of the ASSET bursary varies, depending on individual financial circumstances. In most cases, the bursary contributes towards:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks
Payments are made directly to the tertiary institution.
Bursary awards are based on two key criteria:
- Academic merit
- Financial need
Successful applicants may receive funding for the full duration of their undergraduate studies, provided they:
- Maintain satisfactory academic performance
- Reapply for funding each year
Applications are assessed by a Selection Committee, with final decisions made in early February. Shortlisted candidates are contacted by the end of February 2026. If no communication is received by then, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Importantly, ASSET bursaries do not need to be repaid. However, recipients are required to join the ASSET Alumni Association and give back through community service by completing a minimum of 100 voluntary hours during or after their studies.
Eligibility Requirements for ASSET South Africa Bursary Application 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must reside in the Western Cape
- Must be in Matric or have completed Matric
- Must be studying or intend to study full-time
- Must be pursuing a first undergraduate qualification
- Must meet the admission requirements for the chosen field of study
- Must be registered at one of the following institutions:
-
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Stellenbosch University
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
(Private institutions are not funded)
- Must fall within the “Missing Middle”, passing the means test:
- Family income of less than R18,000 per month for a household with two children
- Income threshold may increase by R2,000 per additional child (up to four children)
- Combined annual income between R350,000 and R600,000
-
Must not have lost NSFAS funding due to academic exclusion
Preference will be given to applicants who:
- Demonstrate the greatest financial need
- Come from rural areas or informal settlements
- Attended under-resourced or “dysfunctional” schools
- Achieved above-average academic results, especially in subjects related to their field
- Have strong attendance records and prior involvement in the ASSET Learner Development Programme (Saturday School)
How to Apply for ASSET South Africa Bursary 2026/2027
Step 1: Download the Correct Application Form
- New applicants: ASSET Bursary Application Form (New Applicants) – PDF
- Returning bursary holders: ASSET Bursary Application Form (Renewal) – PDF
Step 2: Prepare the Required Supporting Documents
New / First-Time Applicants:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- 2026 mid-year academic results (final results to be submitted once available)
- Full academic transcripts (for 2nd, 3rd or final-year students)
- Certified proof of household income (payslips, affidavit, pension slip, or SASSA proof)
- Motivational letter (about yourself, background, and future goals)
- One contactable reference (not a school principal)
Renewal Applicants:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- 2026 mid-year academic results
- Certified proof of household income
- Motivational letter (reflecting on your studies and student experience)
- One contactable reference
Note: Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Submission Methods
Applications must be submitted using one of the following methods:
Email:
- Email: bursary@asset.org.za
Subject line: ASSET Bursary Application 2026
Post or Hand Delivery:
Bursary Department
Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET)
5 Long Street
Mowbray
7700
Western Cape
Note: Faxed applications will not be accepted.
Closing Date for ASSET South Africa Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Date: 30 September
Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
Contact Details of ASSET South Africa
For further information or application-related queries, contact ASSET directly:
- Telephone: 021 685 1025
- Email: bursary@asset.org.za
