The Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) helps in South Africa’s efforts to address skills shortages in various industries.
Established under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), SETAs are dedicated to improving skills development within their respective sectors.
Each SETA focuses on a specific industry, such as manufacturing, mining, or agriculture, aligning its bursary offerings with the government’s mission to increase graduates in scarce and critical skills disciplines.
SETAs offer bursaries primarily to South African citizens who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence in relevant fields.
These bursaries not only provide comprehensive funding for education but also contribute to the advancement of South Africa’s economic and skills development goals.
Recipients often sign an obligation to work in South Africa for a set period after graduation, fostering a commitment to local industry growth.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a SETA bursary, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:
- Bursaries are exclusively available to South African citizens and permanent residents.
- A minimum overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 70% is typically required.
- Applicants must provide proof of financial hardship, with household incomes generally not exceeding R350,000 annually.
- Candidates must be enrolled in undergraduate programs within scarce and critical skills disciplines relevant to the respective SETA.
- Bursaries are restricted to studies at South African public universities listed by Universities South Africa (USAF).
Benefits of SETA Bursaries
SETA bursaries offer comprehensive funding, covering:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation with meals
- Study materials such as textbooks and laptops
- Potential practical training or vacation work opportunities
While employment after graduation is not guaranteed, bursary recipients often gain industry-specific exposure, enhancing their employability.
How to Apply for a SETA Bursary
These are the steps required for the application process:
- Identify the Relevant SETA: Determine which SETA aligns with your chosen field of study. For example, the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) supports mining-related disciplines.
- Visit the SETA Website: Each SETA provides detailed bursary information, including application forms and requirements. Explore their official website for the latest updates.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form thoroughly, ensuring all sections are completed accurately.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Academic transcripts or Grade 12 results
- Proof of household income (e.g., pay slips or affidavit)
- Proof of registration or acceptance into a relevant study program
- Include Referral Information: When asked how you heard about the bursary, input www.bursariesmzansi.co.za.
- Submit Your Application: Ensure your application, along with all required documents, is submitted by the specified deadline. Late submissions are typically not accepted.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary depending on the SETA and the academic calendar.
Applicants should regularly check the relevant SETA’s website or contact their offices for specific dates.
Early submission is highly encouraged to avoid last-minute complications.
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed based on the eligibility criteria.
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further interviews or assessments.
Successful applicants will be notified via email or phone.
Contact Information for Assistance
For inquiries or assistance with the application process, you can reach out to the Career Wise team, which administers bursary programs for various SETAs:
- Address: 25 Owl Street, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg, 2092
- Phone: 011 258 4464
- Email: info@careerwise.co.za
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
For the latest updates and additional guidance, visit www.bursariesmzansi.co.za and start your journey toward a brighter future today.