Are you looking for funding to study in South Africa? There are several organisations that provide bursaries, study funding and skills-development opportunities for students and learners.

In this guide, we look at NSFAS, merSETA, FASSET, MICT SETA and MQA and explain where students can find official information and application opportunities.

Important: Application dates and eligibility requirements differ between programmes. Always check the official website before applying.

1. NSFAS Bursary

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to eligible South African students studying at public universities and TVET colleges.

NSFAS funding can help qualifying students with costs associated with their studies, subject to the applicable funding rules and eligibility requirements.

For the latest application information, students should use the official NSFAS website and their myNSFAS account.

Official NSFAS application and information:
Apply / Check NSFAS Funding

The official NSFAS website currently shows that the 2026 TVET Trimester 3 application period has closed and that the previously announced September dates were withdrawn. Students should therefore check the site for the next applicable application cycle rather than relying on old social-media posts.

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2. merSETA Bursaries

The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA) supports skills development in the manufacturing, engineering and related services sectors.

Its 2026/27 funding guidelines include bursary funding for unemployed learners studying at post-school education and training institutions. The guidelines also provide for bursaries for permanently employed employees of merSETA member companies at higher education and TVET institutions. Funding is subject to the applicable rules and available budget.

Official merSETA website:
Check merSETA Funding Opportunities

Applicants should check the current merSETA funding announcements and guidelines before submitting an application.

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3. FASSET Bursaries

FASSET provides bursary opportunities linked to the finance, accounting, management consulting and related services sector.

Its bursary programmes include opportunities for unemployed students at public TVET colleges and universities, as well as bursaries for qualifying employed learners. Depending on the programme, funding may cover tuition, prescribed textbooks, accommodation and learner allowances. Some programmes may also provide laptop support.

FASSET’s official student portal also allows students to register and access available bursary opportunities.

Official FASSET bursary information:
View FASSET Bursaries

FASSET Student Bursary Portal:
Apply through the FASSET Student Portal

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4. MICT SETA Bursaries

The Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) provides bursary support for South African citizens pursuing full-time studies in fields that fall within the MICT sector.

MICT SETA says its bursary programme is offered through partnerships with NSFAS and participating TVET colleges and universities to support deserving and financially challenged students.

Students interested in ICT, media, telecommunications and related fields should regularly check the official MICT SETA website for bursary announcements and funding opportunities.

Official MICT SETA bursary page:
Check MICT SETA Bursaries

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5. MQA Bursary

The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) provides bursaries aimed at developing skills for careers in South Africa’s mining and minerals sector.

The MQA bursary scheme supports students studying at universities, universities of technology and TVET colleges. Depending on the applicable funding arrangement, support can include tuition and registration fees, accommodation, books, meals and other allowances.

The MQA funding policy also states that bursars should be South African citizens studying at South African public institutions, with historically disadvantaged South Africans prioritised.

Official MQA bursary page:
View MQA Bursaries

Important: The MQA page currently states that the 2026 first-time bursary application window has closed, while continuation funding was available to existing MQA-funded bursars. Students should check the official page for the next application cycle.

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Which Bursary Should You Check?

Funding organisation	Main area
NSFAS	Public universities and TVET colleges
merSETA	Manufacturing, engineering and related services
FASSET	Finance, accounting, management consulting and related fields
MICT SETA	Media, information and communication technologies
MQA	Mining and minerals-related studies

Apply Through Official Sources

Students should always use the official websites when applying for bursaries. Avoid paying anyone who promises to secure a bursary or admission on your behalf.

Bursary application dates can change, and some programmes only open for applications during specific periods. Check the official website before submitting personal documents.

Quick Application Links

NSFAS: Apply / Check NSFAS

merSETA: Check merSETA Opportunities

FASSET: Apply for FASSET Bursaries

MICT SETA: Check MICT SETA Bursaries

MQA: Check MQA Bursaries

Final Reminder

Getting your bursary application in through the correct channel is important. Before applying, confirm the closing date, study field, institution requirements, academic requirements and supporting documents for the specific funding programme.

Do not send money to individuals claiming to represent NSFAS, a SETA or MQA. Use the official websites above to verify opportunities.

For more South African bursaries, learnerships, internships and job opportunities, keep checking gazanetflix.com.