BANKSETA Higher Education Funding Window (Bursary Programme)

1. 1

   Approach your public university or university of technology financial aid or bursary office to confirm your eligibility for the BANKSETA Higher Education Funding Window

2. 2

   Ask to be included in your institution's submission to BANKSETA - students cannot apply directly to BANKSETA

3. 3

   Attend or have your institution attend the compulsory online briefing session held when the funding window opens (held on 15 January 2026 for the 2026 window)

4. 4

   Provide your institution with proof of registration, academic records and financial need documentation for the relevant academic year

5. 5

   The institution captures and submits qualifying applications via the BANKSETA Management Information System (MIS/SIMS) portal at sims.bankseta.org.za before the closing date

6. 6

   Await selection and confirmation, which BANKSETA communicates through the participating institution

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply directly to BANKSETA for the funding window bursary?

No. BANKSETA channels funding through public universities and universities of technology, which submit applications on behalf of students via the BANKSETA Management Information System (MIS/SIMS) portal. You must approach your institution's financial aid or bursary office to be included in its submission rather than applying as an individual.

How much does the BANKSETA bursary cover?

Per 2026 funding window guidance, funding is reported to cap at R120,000 per learner per year, broken down as R50,000 for tuition, R10,000 for study material and R45,000 for accommodation. The funding is aligned to qualifications in the BANKSETA Sector Skills Plan such as banking, finance, economics, accounting, IT and business.

Who is eligible for the BANKSETA Higher Education Funding Window?

You must be a South African citizen enrolled or registered at a public university or university of technology, studying a qualification aligned to the BANKSETA Sector Skills Plan (banking, finance, economics, accounting, IT or business). Selection is based on academic record and financial need, and applications must be made through your institution.

When does the funding window close?

The 2026 Higher Education Funding Window closed on Thursday, 29 January 2026 at 16h00, with a compulsory online briefing session on 15 January 2026. The window opens annually, typically between November and January, so prospective students should confirm the next cycle's dates and apply through their institution's financial aid or bursary office.