The UNISA BANKSETA Bursary 2027 provides funding support for students studying banking, finance, accounting, and related fields at the University of South Africa, with the aim of building skilled professionals for the financial sector in South Africa.
About UNISA and BANKSETA
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest distance learning institutions in Africa, offering flexible education to thousands of students across the country and beyond.
The Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) is a government skills development body established under the Skills Development Act to improve skills in the banking and microfinance sector.
Together, UNISA and BANKSETA support students through targeted bursary funding that focuses on financial sector training and employment readiness.
Purpose of the Bursary
The UNISA BANKSETA bursary exists to reduce financial pressure on students while building a pipeline of skilled professionals for South Africa’s banking industry.
It is also aimed at addressing skills shortages in areas such as finance, risk management, accounting, economics, and information technology.
The funding is structured to ensure students complete qualifications that align with banking sector needs and future employment opportunities.
Type of Bursary Funding Offered
The bursary is mainly a full cost or partial support funding programme depending on the specific intake and qualification.
It is often linked to targeted programmes such as the BANKSETA Lesedi Bursary Scheme for selected UNISA qualifications.
Funding is usually provided for undergraduate qualifications such as BCom Financial Accounting and other finance related degrees.
What the Bursary Covers
The UNISA BANKSETA bursary provides financial support designed to assist students with both academic and study related needs.
The coverage may include:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Laptop allowance in selected programmes
- Monthly stipend for living costs
- Data allowance for distance learning support
These benefits help students manage online learning requirements effectively.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet strict academic and programme specific requirements to qualify for the bursary.
General eligibility includes:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be registered or intending to register at UNISA
- Must study in approved banking or finance related qualifications
- Must meet minimum academic performance requirements set by BANKSETA
- Must be unemployed in most cases unless stated otherwise
Some programmes also prioritise students aged between 18 and 35 years depending on funding guidelines.
Type of Candidates BANKSETA Looks For
The bursary is aimed at students who show strong academic ability and commitment to careers in the financial sector.
Preferred candidates include:
- Students with strong marks in Mathematics or Accounting
- Students studying finance, accounting, economics, or IT
- Students who want to work in banking or risk management
- Students who can complete studies through distance learning discipline
- Students who show long term career commitment in financial services
Selection is also based on academic performance and financial need.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit complete supporting documents during the online application process.
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Latest academic transcript or matric certificate
- Proof of UNISA registration or acceptance
- Proof of household income
- Updated CV (where required by specific intake)
- Any additional documents requested by BANKSETA
Incomplete applications are not considered.
Application Timeline and Closing Date
The UNISA BANKSETA bursary for 2027 closed on 30 April 2026.
Students are advised to regularly check official UNISA funding pages for updates on the next intake and funding availability.
Application Process and Format
Applications are submitted online or through UNISA bursary channels depending on the specific BANKSETA programme.
General steps include:
- Visit the official UNISA funding and bursaries page
- Check if BANKSETA bursary applications are open
- Complete the online application form
- Upload certified supporting documents
- Submit before the closing date
- Wait for email or portal feedback from UNISA or BANKSETA
Some programmes may require additional assessments or selection interviews depending on demand.
Official Contact Information
For accurate updates and enquiries, students must use official UNISA channels.
- UNISA Student Funding Contact:
Email: enquire@unisa.ac.za
Phone: 0800 00 1870 - UNISA Website
- BANKSETA Website
Students should avoid unofficial sources and always confirm application updates through these platforms.
