How to Apply for the ETDP SETA Bursary 2025 in South Africa

If you’re planning to study towards a qualification in education, training, or development in 2025, the ETDP SETA Bursary is a significant funding opportunity to explore. This guide walks you through everything you need to know: eligibility, funding benefits, application steps, and useful tips to improve your chances.

What Is the ETDP SETA Bursary?

The Education, Training and Development Practices SETA (ETDP SETA) supports students in fields such as teaching, facilitation, skills development, and educational planning. For 2025, ETDP SETA has introduced a new HEI-administered bursary scheme. Instead of applying directly to ETDP SETA, prospective students apply through partner universities and institutions, who manage the process on behalf of the SETA. This streamlining improves accessibility and responsiveness.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

The bursary covers essential academic expenses, including:

• Tuition and registration fees
• Prescribed books and learning materials
• Accommodation and meal allowances
• Incidental costs (for eligible students)
• Total funding may be up to R120,000 per academic year, depending on the qualification and university policies.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility for the 2025 bursary includes:

• South African citizens with a valid ID
• Unemployed students not receiving NSFAS or another bursary
• Applicants registered or intending to register in a relevant ETD qualification (works toward careers in teaching, facilitation, human resource development, etc.) at a partnering HEI
• Age bracket generally 18–35, though older students may be considered in exceptional circumstances
• Priority is given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, including rural youth, women, and persons with disabilities

Institutions Administering the Bursary

ETDP SETA collaborates with a range of public and private institutions. Examples include:

Public Universities

• University of Johannesburg, UNISA, Wits, UP, UWC, UCT, UFH, UZ, DUT, CPUT, Sol Plaatje University, University of Venda, North-West University, Tshwane University of Technology, University of the Western Cape, University of Limpopo, University of Fort Hare, etc.

Private Institutions

• Inscape Education Group, Vega College, Varsity College, Rosebank College, Eduvos, Richfield Institute, Mancosa, IIE MSA, Boston College, Da Vinci Business School, centre for creative education

You must apply internally through your selected institution’s Financial Aid or Bursary Office.

How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Institution and Qualification

Select a participating university or college offering a qualification in the ETD sector.

Step 2: Contact the Institution’s Funding Office

Reach out early (August–October 2024) to confirm bursary availability, closing dates, and documents needed.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

You’ll likely need:

• Certified South African ID (not older than 3 months)
• Proof of acceptance or registration in an ETD-related qualification
• Academic transcripts or Matric certificate
• CV and proof of unemployment or household income affidavit
• A motivational letter explaining your passion and eligibility
• Banking details (for disbursement)

Step 4: Submit Application via Institution

Follow the institution’s specific process—this may be an online form or email submission. ETDP SETA will not accept direct applications.

Step 5: Shortlisting & Selection

Institutions shortlist candidates and forward applications to ETDP SETA for final approval. Selection is typically communicated by the institution after vetting.

Step 6: Receive Bursary Award

If selected, your institution will issue a bursary letter, and funds are paid directly to the institution on your behalf.

Timeline (Estimated)

It’s crucial to verify exact dates with your chosen institution.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances

• Apply to multiple institutions offering ETDP SETA bursaries
• Submit certified copies of documents (stamped by police station or post office)
• Keep motivational letters concise, authentic, and focused
• Demonstrate financial need clearly (e.g., income affidavit or proof of unemployment)
• Highlight your commitment to serving the education/training sector
• Follow up politely if you haven’t heard back within 60 days
• Beware of scams—ETDP SETA will never charge an application fee. Only apply through institution-listed channels.

What to Expect as a Bursary Recipient

Once awarded, recipients usually receive:

• A bursary agreement outlining conditions (e.g., full-time study, academic performance)
• Annual funding spread across the academic year
• No cash disbursement; everything is paid directly to the institution
• Option for renewal, subject to satisfactory academic progress
• Obligation to pursue teaching or ETD-related pathways after qualification, especially in priority areas

Final Thoughts

The ETDP SETA HEI-administered bursary 2025 offers a powerful opportunity for students pursuing education, training, or skills development careers to secure funding and achieve qualifications without financial burden.

By applying through a partnered institution, submitting complete documentation, and demonstrating clear motivation, you increase your chances of being selected. Get started early, research your chosen university’s process, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in education and training.

Would you like help drafting your motivational letter or researching which universities currently accept ETDP SETA bursary applications?