Association for Educational Transformation
ASSET Bursary
Closes
30 September 2026
Value
Tuition, registration, books
Level
Undergraduate
For
Western Cape residents
Sector
General
Work-back
100 community service hours
About this bursary
The Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET) provides partial funding for students living and studying in the Western Cape. Funded through the ASSET Educational Trust alongside private donors and corporate partners, the bursary covers costs for first-time undergraduate students across all academic fields.
The programme targets academically capable students who fall into the missing middle income bracket. It aims to reduce financial barriers to higher education for candidates who cannot secure full government funding but have demonstrated strong potential.
Applicants must attend one of the four public higher education institutions in the Western Cape, namely UCT, UWC, Stellenbosch University, or CPUT. While recipients do not repay the funding financially, they must join the ASSET Alumni Association and complete 100 hours of volunteer work during or after their studies.
Obligation
Recipients must complete 100 voluntary service hours and register with the ASSET Alumni Association.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen permanently residing in the Western Cape.
- You must be currently in Matric or have completed your Matric qualification.
- You must be enrolled or intending to register full-time for your first undergraduate degree, diploma, or higher certificate.
- You must be registered or accepted at UCT, UWC, Stellenbosch University, or CPUT.
- Your total family income must fit the missing middle category, generally between R350 000 and R600 000 per year.
- You must not have been excluded from NSFAS funding because of poor academic performance.
- Preference is given to applicants from rural areas, informal settlements, or under-resourced schools, as well as those with strong academic results.
You do not qualify if
- Students studying at private higher education institutions or private colleges.
- Postgraduate students seeking funding for honours, master's, or doctoral degrees.
- Non-South African citizens or students residing outside the Western Cape.
- Students who lost NSFAS funding due to academic exclusion.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of your South African ID document
- Certified copy of your latest mid-year academic results or final Matric certificate
- Certified copy of full academic transcripts for returning tertiary students
- Proof of household income such as recent payslips, pension slips, SASSA grant slips, or an unemployment affidavit
- Motivational letter detailing your background, financial need, and future aspirations
- One contactable reference letter from someone who knows your character well
All attached documents must be clear certified copies.
How to apply
- 1Download the correct ASSET bursary application form for new applicants or renewal candidates.
- 2Complete all required sections of the form accurately in block letters.
- 3Gather all necessary supporting documents and ensure certified copies are made.
- 4Write your motivational letter detailing your background and career goals.
- 5Submit your completed form and attachments via email to [email protected], using the subject line ASSET Bursary Application 2025.
- 6Alternatively, deliver your physical application package by post or hand delivery to the ASSET office in Mowbray.
Applications sent via fax will be automatically disqualified.