Apply for the Services SETA Bursary 2026/2027 at DUT

The Financial Aid Unit at Durban University of Technology (DUT) is pleased to announce that applications are officially open for the Services SETA Bursary Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year. This bursary aims to support academically deserving and financially needy students who are currently registered in qualifying programmes at public universities.
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support to help students continue their studies without the burden of tuition and related academic expenses. Eligible students are strongly encouraged to apply before the closing date.
QUALIFICATIONS ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING
Students registered in the following programmes may apply:
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
- Diploma in Marketing
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Public Relations Management
- Bachelor of Journalism
- Diploma in Language Practice (English and Communication)
- Diploma in Business & Information Management
- Bachelor of Health Sciences in Environmental Health
- Diploma in Somatology
- Bachelor of the Built Environment in Urban & Regional Planning
- Bachelor of the Built Environment in Construction Studies
- Diploma in Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of the Built Environment in Architecture
- Diploma in Public Management
These qualifications fall within key service-sector priority areas that support national development and skills advancement in South Africa.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be registered at a public university (for example, DUT)
- Must be a returning student who received funding in 2025
- Must have obtained a minimum 60% average in Grade 12
- Must come from a household with an annual income below R1,000,000
In addition, students funded in 2025 must have:
- Passed at least 75% of their registered modules
- Continued in the same qualification programme
Meeting these requirements improves your chances of being considered for the bursary award.
REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:
- Certified copy of ID (not older than 6 months)
- Proof of university registration
- Latest fee statement
- Affidavit confirming unemployment (if not employed)
- Proof of employment (if employed)
Submitting complete and accurate documents is essential for your application to be processed successfully.
TRANSFORMATION TARGETS
The Services SETA bursary programme supports inclusive access to higher education and prioritizes:
- 70% Black women
- 60% youth applicants
- At least 3% students living with disabilities
- 26% students from rural areas
These targets help ensure equitable opportunities across different communities.
WHAT THE BURSARY COVERS
Successful applicants will receive funding for:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- A once-off laptop
- Research and travel support (for postgraduate students)
This financial support allows students to focus fully on their academic success without worrying about essential study expenses.
WHAT THE BURSARY DOES NOT COVER
The bursary does not cover:
- Historical debt
- NSFAS or other bursary balances
- Interest charged on fees
- Non-academic expenses
Applicants should take note of these exclusions when planning their finances.
IMPORTANT DEADLINE
All applications must be submitted before:
03 April 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered, so students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply here:
https://forms.office.com/r/2PpTQaV4VG?origin=lprLink
FINAL ADVICE FOR APPLICANTS
This bursary represents a valuable opportunity for students pursuing qualifications aligned with South Africa’s service-sector priorities. If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents early, ensure everything is certified where necessary, and submit your application before the deadline.
Applying on time and submitting complete documentation can greatly improve your chances of receiving funding for the 2026/2027 academic year.