Education is one of the most powerful tools for unlocking opportunity, and in South Africa’s growing insurance and financial services industry, the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) is at the forefront of supporting future professionals. Through its Insurance Sector Student Fund (ISSF) Bursary Programme for 2026, INSETA continues to provide funding opportunities to young South Africans who want to pursue studies that align with the needs of the insurance sector.
This bursary is a golden opportunity for ambitious youth who dream of contributing to the financial services industry but may lack the financial means to pursue their studies. With the insurance sector being one of the pillars of the South African economy, this programme ensures that deserving students gain the education, skills, and knowledge required to build sustainable careers.
What the ISSF Bursary Covers
The INSETA ISSF Bursary Programme is comprehensive in its support, ensuring that recipients can fully focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. Successful applicants will receive funding for:
- Tuition Fees (full coverage at public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges).
- Prescribed Textbooks and Study Materials.
- Accommodation and Meals (for full-time students who meet the criteria).
- Monthly Allowance to support additional study-related expenses.
This holistic support structure allows beneficiaries to thrive academically and socially, empowering them to complete their qualifications successfully.
Fields of Study Funded
The bursary is specifically aimed at developing skills within the insurance and financial services sector. For 2026, applicants will be considered for studies in the following fields:
- Insurance and Risk Management
- Financial Management and Accounting
- Economics and Business Studies
- Actuarial Science
- Information Technology (with relevance to insurance systems)
- Human Resources and Business Administration
- Law (with a focus on commercial, financial, or insurance law)
By focusing on these fields, the programme ensures alignment with the skills demands of the sector while also promoting transformation and inclusivity.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to a wide range of applicants, ensuring that access to education is equitable. To qualify, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be currently in Grade 12 (Matric) or already studying at a public higher education institution.
- Demonstrate academic potential with strong results in Mathematics, Accounting, Business Studies, or related subjects.
- Be from a financially disadvantaged background (priority is given to youth from previously disadvantaged groups).
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years.
Special consideration will be given to students with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity in line with national development goals.
Why Apply for the ISSF Bursary?
Beyond financial support, the INSETA ISSF bursary opens doors to career-building opportunities. Beneficiaries often gain access to:
- Mentorship and Career Guidance from experienced professionals in the insurance sector.
- Workplace Exposure through vacation work or internships supported by INSETA’s network of employer partners.
- Networking Opportunities with other bursary recipients and professionals in the sector.
By the time students complete their studies, they are better prepared to enter the job market and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economic growth.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the online application forms below. The following supporting documents will be required:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Grade 12 results or latest academic transcript
- Proof of household income (salary slips/affidavit)
- Proof of admission or registration at a recognised public university, university of technology, or TVET college
Click on the below links for more details and application forms. Ensure that you apply using the correct form:
Section A: HEIs & Strategic Implementation Partners; https://forms.office.com/r/PJ81rR5GKq?origin=lprLink
Section B: Co-Funders(Employers/Companies) – https://forms.office.com/r/YufsaMHUqU?origin=lpr
Section C: South African Public (Unemployed & Employed Individuals) – https://forms.office.com/r/PadGKjLgxQ?origin=lprLink
DOWNLOAD THE INSETA ISSF BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 ADVERT HERE
Our Conclusion:
The INSETA Insurance Sector Student Fund (ISSF) Bursary Programme for 2026 is more than just financial assistance—it’s an investment in the future of South African youth and the country’s insurance sector. If you are passionate about finance, insurance, or related fields, this bursary could be your stepping stone to a rewarding career.
CLOSING DATE: 20 OCTOBER 2025
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE