Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on Services SETA Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student eager to build a career in the services sector but struggling with the financial costs of higher education? The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) Bursary 2026/2027 is now open for applications, providing financial assistance to deserving students who want to pursue studies in various service-related fields at public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges across the country.
The Services SETA Bursary Programme aims to support South Africa’s skills development strategy by funding students in key study areas such as business administration, human resources, marketing, project management, communication, and other service-oriented qualifications. Through this initiative, Services SETA helps bridge the skills gap, promote employability, and empower young South Africans to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
By applying for the Services SETA Bursary 2026/2027, successful applicants can benefit from comprehensive funding that often covers tuition fees, accommodation, prescribed learning materials, and in some cases, a living allowance. This makes it an excellent opportunity for students who are determined to achieve academic success while shaping a rewarding career path.
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 criteria, fields of study covered, application process, and deadlines for the Services SETA Bursary Application 2026/2027.
About Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA)
The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) was established in 2000. It is responsible for managing and disbursing training levies paid by employers through SARS and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Services SETA plays a key role in identifying skill needs and ensuring that the right skills are developed and made available in South Africa.
It is one of 21 SETAs in the country, each responsible for creating and managing learnerships, apprenticeships, internships, and skills programmes across various industries.
About The Services SETA Bursary Programme 2026/2027
The Services SETA Bursary Programme is open to both employed and unemployed learners who are studying within the services industry. Funding is available for undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in the following fields:
- Business Administration
- Business Management
- Communication Studies
- Human Resources
- Marketing
- Project Management
- Public Administration
- Media Studies
- Real Estate & Property Development
- Hair & Personal Care
What The Bursary Covers
Depending on need and availability, the bursary may cover:
- Tuition fees (full or partial)
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation & meals (for unemployed students only)
- Travel & research allowance (for Master’s and PhD students only)
Eligibility Criteria for Services SETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Who Can Apply?
For Unemployed Applicants:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Between 18 and 35 years old
- Currently unemployed
- Planning to study towards an NQF level 5 qualification or higher in one of the listed fields
- Studying full-time at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college in South Africa
- Achieved a minimum average of 50%
- Household income less than R600 000 per year
For Employed Applicants:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Currently employed
- Studying towards an NQF level 5 qualification or higher in one of the listed fields
- Studying full-time or part-time at a public tertiary institution in South Africa
- Achieved a minimum average of 50%
- Household income less than R600 000 per year
How To Apply for Services SETA Bursary 2026/2027
- Register online at: Click here to access Services SETA Bursary Portal
- Log in and complete your application.
- Upload the following required documents:
-
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate/results (if first-year applicant)
- Certified copy of your latest academic record (if already studying)
- Proof of acceptance from your tertiary institution
- Certified copies of parents/guardians ID documents
- Parents/guardians proof of income (latest payslip, etc.)
- Name of your municipality
Note: Applications without the required documents will not be considered.
Closing Date for Services SETA Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Date will be communicated as soon as Services SETA announce it.
Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted.
Contact Details of Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA)
For queries about the bursary programme, contact Services SETA directly:
Tel: 011 051 5026
Email: bursaries2026@serviceseta.org.za
