SETA Bursary: Complete Guide to Opportunities, Application, and Coverage

South African students and professionals looking to advance their education have a powerful opportunity through SETA bursaries. These bursaries are offered by various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) across the country to support learners in fields that are critical to South Africa’s economy and workforce.

Whether you are a matriculant, undergraduate, or postgraduate student, understanding what a SETA bursary covers, how to apply, and which areas it focuses on is crucial to maximize your chances of funding.

A SETA bursary is a funding opportunity provided by the different SETAs in South Africa to support learners who are pursuing qualifications in fields that are scarce, critical, or in high demand. The bursaries aim to develop skills aligned with the country’s workforce needs while helping students cover study-related expenses.

SETA bursaries are available for:

• Matriculants entering university or TVET colleges
• Undergraduate students pursuing degrees or diplomas
• Postgraduate students completing honours, master’s, or doctoral studies

What Does a SETA Bursary Cover?

Depending on the SETA and the program, bursary funding can include:

• Tuition and registration fees
• Prescribed textbooks and study materials
• Accommodation and meals
• Research costs, laboratory fees, or fieldwork expenses
• Travel and conference attendance (for postgraduate students)

For example, the ETDP SETA bursary covers qualifications in teaching and education, including:

• NPDE and PGCE
• B.Ed Mathematics and Science
• B.Ed Foundation Phase
• Certificate in Education
• BCom, BSc Applied Mathematics
• Masters in Commerce
• ACE in Leadership and Management
• Computer Studies, Human Resources Management, and Public Finance

Who Can Apply for a SETA Bursary?

SETA bursaries generally target:

• Unemployed South Africans from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
• Students registered at accredited universities or TVET colleges
• Individuals pursuing qualifications in fields listed in the SETA Sector Skills Plan
• Employees in certain industries (for employed bursaries, e.g., Services SETA)

Eligibility often includes proof of South African citizenship, matriculation, and, for some bursaries, household income documentation. Some bursaries are renewable annually based on academic performance.

Areas Covered by SETA Bursaries

Different SETAs focus on different sectors. Here’s a summary of key fields covered:

SETA	Fields Covered
ETDP SETA	Education, Teaching, Scarce Skills in Maths, Science, and Leadership
HWSETA	Health Sciences, Nursing, Veterinary Science, Public Health, Mental Health, Psychology, Social Work
EWSETA	Energy and Water sectors, Science and Engineering
BANKSETA	Finance, Accounting, Actuarial Science, IT, Economics
INSETA	Insurance, Finance, IT, Law, Marketing, Data Science
AgriSETA	Agriculture, Agribusiness, Agricultural Engineering
W&RSETA	Wholesale and Retail Management
Services SETA	Hard-to-fill positions in the services sector
LGSETA	Accounting, Urban and Regional Planning

How to Apply for a SETA Bursary

Most SETA bursaries now have online applications. The process generally requires:

1. Downloading and completing the application form from the SETA’s official website
2. Submitting supporting documents, which may include:
   • Certified ID copy
   • Proof of matric results or previous academic transcripts
   • Proof of registration or acceptance letter
   • Proof of employment (for employed bursaries)
   • Income affidavit (if required)
3. Submitting the completed application via email or through the online bursary portal

Some bursaries, like the Services SETA bursary, also require signed consent forms for data protection (POPIA) and bursary agreements.

Useful links for online applications:

• ETDP SETA: http://www.etdpseta.org.za/SETA-Funding-Opportunities
• AgriSETA: https://www.agriseta.co.za
• EWSETA: https://ewseta.org.za
• W&RSETA: https://www.wrseta.org.za/learners/bursaries
• LGSETA: https://www.lgsetaonline.org.za

When to Apply

Each SETA has its own closing dates, typically once a year or for a specific academic cycle. It is important to check the SETA’s website regularly for updates. Some bursaries, like the ETDP SETA, have historically closed around December, while others may open in January or mid-year depending on the funding cycle.

Successful SETA Bursary Application

• Submit all required documents in the correct format
• Ensure your application aligns with the SETA’s sector skills plan
• Highlight your academic performance and career goals
• Apply early to avoid missing deadlines
• Keep a copy of your application for follow-up

Contact Information

For general inquiries or assistance with your SETA bursary application, contact the relevant SETA offices:

• ETDP SETA: 24 Johnson Road, Riverwoods Office Park, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 011 628 5000
• Services SETA: kleinbooi@usaf.ac.za, linda.tshabalala@universitiessouthafrica.onmicrosoft.com

Always check the official SETA website for the latest updates, application forms, and deadlines.