South Africa’s insurance industry requires a skilled, knowledgeable workforce to remain competitive and compliant in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. To support this need, the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) plays a vital role in developing industry-relevant skills through education funding and training initiatives.
One of INSETA’s most impactful funding initiatives is the Insurance Sector Skills Fund (ISSF) Bursary Programme. It provides financial assistance to students pursuing qualifications aligned with the insurance and related services sectors.
The INSETA ISSF Bursary 2026 aims to bridge the gap between academic access and industry demand by supporting deserving students who may not otherwise be able to afford tertiary education.
This article explains what the INSETA ISSF Bursary is, who can apply, the requirements for 2026, how to submit an application, and the bursary closing date.
Table of Contents
What Is INSETA?
The Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) is a South African organisation established in March 2000 under the Skills Development Act of 1998 and the Skills Development Levies Act of 1999. It forms part of the government’s broader strategy to address historical inequalities in education, employment, and skills development.
INSETA focuses on promoting skills development in the insurance and related services industries by collecting skills development levies from employers and reinvesting these funds in training programmes, grants, and bursaries.
What is the INSETA ISSF Bursary?
The Insurance Sector Skills Fund ISSF funding in South Africa is a financial aid programme that supports African learners who aspire to build careers in insurance and related fields in South Africa. The bursary assists students pursuing qualifications aligned with the insurance sector’s needs.
The primary objective of the ISSF bursary is to close the skills and knowledge gap within the industry by creating access to education for academically capable students facing financial constraints. By doing so, INSETA aims to improve professionalism, productivity, and long-term competitiveness within the insurance sector.
Eligibility Requirements for INSETA ISSF Bursary
To be eligible for the INSETA ISSF Bursary, applicants must meet basic requirements set by INSETA. This usually includes the following things, which need to be strictly followed. Preference may be given to students who show financial need:
- Candidate must be a South African citizen
- Candidate must be in Matric or have completed Matric
- The candidate may be unemployed and between 18 and 35, but must be employed.
- The candidate also must be studying or intend on studying at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa (preferably towards a course in the Insurance and related sectors)
- In case of employed applicants, attach the Letter of Employment
How to Apply Online for INSETA ISSF Bursary?
Applications must be submitted online at: INSETA ISSF Bursary 2026
The Bursary application process involves several documents, typically submitted online. First, you need to download the application form from the INSETA ISSF official website and then attach the following documents:
- Attach a Recent, certified copy of a valid South African identity document.
- The recent certified copy of a valid matric certificate (Grade 12).
- Attach a copy of the acceptance letter from an accredited institution.
- Your Certified copy of the latest academic transcript or record on official letterhead.
- Add Tuition Fee/Course Quotation
- Accommodation Fee/Quotation
- Attach the proof of Registration (where applicable)
- Add a recent certified copy of the breadwinner’s, parents’, and guardian’s valid South African identity document. Or a Death Certificate/Affidavit in case of parents/guardians’ death.
- Alternatively, attach the most recent (3) months’ bank statements or payslips (for both parents or guardians).
- Attach the SASSA letter/Affidavit of both parents/guardians if the grant recipient.
- POPIA Form
- A completed ISSF Bursary Application form.
- Learner Agreement
- Letter of Employment (for employed)
What is the INSETA ISSF Bursary Monthly Allowance?
The INSETA ISSF Bursary provides recipients with a monthly allowance to cover essential expenses. This allowance helps students manage their living costs while focusing on their studies. Typically, the allowance covers the following expenses:
- Accommodation – To assist with housing costs, especially for students who need to live near their educational institution.
- Transport – To help students with commuting expenses during their education.
- Books and Study Materials – To ensure students have the necessary resources for their education programme.
- Living Expenses – To aid in covering daily living costs such as food and personal items.
The exact amount of the monthly allowance may vary depending on the student’s specific needs and the available funding.
What is the INSETA ISSF Bursary Closing Date?
The closing date for the INSETA ISSF Bursary application has not yet been released. It is advised to apply as soon as possible to avoid any delay. Applications for the bursary should be submitted before the closing date to avoid disqualification.
For any enquiries about the INSETA ISSF bursary online application, contact the Head Office through:
- Email: issfenquiries@inseta.org.za
- Phone: 011 381 8900
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Conclusion
The INSETA ISSF Bursary is a valuable opportunity for South Africans seeking to work in the insurance industry. Its significance lies in its ability to cater to people from all walks of life through financial assistance that ensures equal access to education.
Those intending to apply must read through the terms keenly to meet the deadline and be considered. They must know the application process, the required documents, and the bursary deadline.
FAQs
Applicants must be South African citizens with a strong academic record (often a minimum average of 60% in matric or the previous year of study). They should continue or plan to pursue qualifications relevant to the insurance sector at an approved South African university or college. Students’ financial needs are also a critical criterion.
The bursary primarily covers qualifications relevant to the insurance sector. This includes but is not limited to, degrees in actuarial science, risk management, finance, accounting, business management, economics, statistics, information technology (especially in fields like data analytics and cybersecurity), and insurance-specific courses.
The bursary typically covers tuition fees and prescribed textbooks. In some cases, it may also provide allowances for accommodation, meals, and transportation. However, the coverage can vary yearly and based on the specific bursary awarded, so it’s best to check the current terms.
No, the bursary is only available to South African citizens.
Applications submitted after the closing date are generally not considered. It is crucial to submit all required documents before the deadline.
