The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) has officially opened its Bursary Programme for 2026, targeting high-performing Matric 2025 learners who want to pursue careers in finance, accounting, IT, actuarial science, and economics.
If you achieved strong results in Mathematics and Accounting, this bursary could remove the financial barriers standing between you and a professional career in South Africa’s financial sector.
Quick Overview
- Programme: FASSET Special 2025 Matric Top Achiever Bursary
- Application Cycle: 2025/2026
- Closing Date: 28 February 2026 (23:59)
- Target Group: 2025 matric top achievers
- Minimum Average: 75%
- Fields Funded:
- Accounting
- Finance
- IT (finance-related)
- Actuarial Science
- Economics
- Funding Value: Up to R100 000 per year
- Covers: Tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals
- Institution Requirement: Public university or university of technology
- Household Income Limit: Not exceeding R1 000 000 per year
Understanding the Opportunity
Many top-performing matriculants fail to access higher education due to financial constraints. Even students who qualify for NSFAS often experience funding gaps for accommodation, learning materials, or daily living expenses.
The FASSET Bursary Programme is designed to support learners who:
- Have already demonstrated academic excellence
- Are entering scarce and critical skills fields
- Come from households that still need financial assistance
By focusing on finance, accounting, and actuarial sciences, FASSET addresses South Africa’s ongoing shortage of professionals such as:
- Chartered Accountants (CA(SA))
- Auditors
- Financial Analysts
- Actuaries
- Tax Specialists
- Financial IT Professionals
This investment helps build a future workforce that strengthens economic growth and financial governance
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is not open to everyone. It specifically targets learners from the Matric Class of 2025 who:
- Achieved 75% or higher overall
- Passed Mathematics and Accounting with strong marks
- Are enrolling in finance-related qualifications
- Are committed to long-term professional careers in financial services
Selection Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- Minimum 75% Matric average (2025)
- Household income not exceeding R1 000 000 per year
- Acceptance or registration at a public university or university of technology
- Enrolment in one of the following fields:
- Accounting Sciences
- Auditing and Taxation
- Economics and Management Sciences
- IT-related finance qualifications
- Actuarial Sciences
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary provides funding of up to R100 000 per year, covering:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meal allowances
This full support allows students to focus on academics without financial stress.
Requirements Checklist
Before applying, ensure you have:
- Certified Matric results showing 75% or higher
- Proof of acceptance or registration
- Proof of household income
- South African ID document
- Qualification aligned with eligible study fields
How to Apply
[Apply for the FASSET Bursary Programme 2026 here]
Apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
Career Growth After the Bursary
Graduates in finance and accounting fields enjoy strong career mobility and long-term stability.
Possible career paths include:
Entry Level
- Junior Accountant
- Finance Intern
- Audit Trainee
- Data Analyst
Mid-Level
- Chartered Accountant Trainee
- Financial Manager
- Risk Analyst
- Tax Consultant
Advanced Roles
- Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
- Actuary
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
- Investment Strategist
- Audit Partner
These careers are among the most respected and globally portable professions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply?
Only Matric 2025 learners with strong academic performance and finance-related study plans.
Does NSFAS disqualify me?
Not automatically. The bursary targets learners who still need financial support.
Which institutions qualify?
Public universities and universities of technology in South Africa.
Can IT students apply?
Yes, if the IT qualification aligns with financial sector needs.
What if I don’t get feedback?
If you haven’t heard back by 15 March 2026, consider your application unsuccessful.
Closing Date
28 February 2026
Late applications will not be considered.