Does a SETA Bursary Include an Allowance? Here’s What You Need to Know

Understanding the Real Value of a SETA Bursary

For many South African students, accessing higher education can feel like a dream just out of reach. Tuition fees, textbook costs, transport, and living expenses add up quickly. Fortunately, there are government-backed bursaries that aim to bridge that gap. One of the most well-known is the Services SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) bursary.

But does this SETA bursary include a monthly allowance to cover living costs — or does it only focus on tuition and books?

Let’s unpack the details through the journey of a typical student and break down what you can really expect from a Services SETA bursary.

Meet Thando: A Real Story of Hope Through a Bursary

Thando grew up in the Eastern Cape with a big dream — to become a Human Resources professional. Her family, though supportive, couldn’t afford to pay for her university education. She applied for several bursaries but wasn’t sure she’d qualify. Then she heard about the Services SETA bursary.

After a careful application and nail-biting wait, Thando received the acceptance email. Her tuition would be fully covered. Relief washed over her, but she still had questions:

• Would she get money for accommodation?
• Would there be transport assistance?
• Would she receive a meal or living allowance?

These are the same questions many students ask. Let’s go step by step into what the Services SETA bursary offers, especially around allowances.

Tuition and Textbooks: 100% Coverage Guaranteed

First, the great news: the Services SETA bursary covers 100% of your tuition — no hidden conditions. This includes all academic fees required by the institution, whether it’s a university, TVET college, or a registered private institution aligned with the SETA’s goals.

In addition to tuition, the bursary fully pays for your prescribed textbooks, based on the course requirements and available funding guidelines.

You don’t need to worry about tuition or buying essential textbooks — the bursary handles that in full.

Allowances: Prioritized, Conditional, and Based on Available Funds

This is where it gets interesting — and a little more complex. The SETA bursary does provide allowances, but they are not guaranteed for everyone. Whether you receive additional support depends on two main things:

1. The remaining available funds after tuition and books are paid.
2. A prioritization list that ranks which allowances are most critical.

Let’s take a closer look at the types of allowances you might get.

Types of Allowances Covered by the SETA Bursary

1. Study Materials (Additional)

Beyond textbooks, students sometimes need additional supplies like lab kits, uniforms, or tech tools. If funds are available, these items may be covered.

2. Accommodation Allowance

If you live far from your educational institution and require accommodation, the bursary may cover your residence or private housing. This is typically a higher priority than other non-academic expenses.

You must provide proof of accommodation, such as a lease or residence letter.

3. Transport Allowance

For students commuting daily, a transport allowance may be considered — especially if you reside off-campus in a non-residential area.

Again, this depends on your location, course, and the overall budget.

4. Meals and Living Allowance

A living or meal allowance comes lower on the priority list but may still be provided if there’s enough funding left after other key needs are addressed.

This allowance is often competitive and may vary year to year.

Allowance Distribution: How the Process Works

Now, let’s demystify how the Services SETA determines who gets what.

Once your bursary is approved:

• Tuition and books are paid directly to the institution.
• SETA then assesses remaining funds.
• Allowances are distributed in a fixed order of importance, starting with accommodation, then transport, then meals and other needs.

Each applicant is considered on a case-by-case basis. If you live in a rural area and attend school in a major city, for example, your need for accommodation might be prioritized over someone living at home nearby.

Tip: The earlier you apply and provide complete supporting documents, the better your chances of receiving additional allowances.

Can You Rely on the Allowance for Living Expenses?

This is one of the most critical questions students ask — especially those without any other financial support.

Short answer: You might be able to rely on it, but you shouldn’t count on it as guaranteed.

The Services SETA bursary’s primary goal is to ensure access to education. Once that’s covered, everything else depends on the funds left and how urgently your needs are ranked. So while some students receive generous support, others may only get tuition and books.

If you’re budgeting for the academic year, it’s smart to look for other support options like:

• NSFAS (if you qualify),
• Family contributions, or
• Part-time work (if your study load allows it).

What You’ll Need to Qualify for Allowances

To be considered for any of the additional bursary support, make sure you submit:

• Proof of residence
• Admission letter from a registered institution
• Fee statement
• Proof of accommodation (if not at home)
• Valid ID copy
• Motivation letter (if required)
• Bank details (for allowance disbursement)

Also, respond quickly to all communication from SETA, and check that your documents are clear and valid.

Are SETA Allowances Paid Monthly?

In most cases, allowances are paid quarterly or per semester, depending on the bursary agreement and institution. They are usually not paid monthly, but in lump sums meant to cover that term’s needs.

This can be a blessing or a challenge — if you don’t budget wisely, it might run out before the term ends.

Pro tip: Open a separate bank account for bursary funds and track your spending closely.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for SETA Bursaries

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Late applications often miss the allowance cut-off. Apply early.

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

SETA receives thousands of applications. If your documents are missing or incorrect, your application may be rejected — even if you qualify.

Assuming the Bursary Covers Everything

Plan for the possibility that you may need to fund part of your living expenses yourself.

SETA Bursary vs NSFAS: What’s the Difference?

While both aim to make education more accessible, the Services SETA bursary is merit- and need-based, focused on specific sectors like HR, marketing, cleaning, and more.

NSFAS, on the other hand, is geared toward financially disadvantaged students and has broader coverage, including more comprehensive allowances.

If you qualify for both, you can only accept one.

Final Thoughts: Is a SETA Bursary Worth It?

Absolutely. Even if allowances aren’t guaranteed, the SETA bursary opens doors by removing the biggest barrier — tuition. And when additional support is available, it can dramatically ease the financial burden of studying.

For students like Thando, the bursary made all the difference — not just in getting into university, but in being able to stay and succeed.

If you’re considering applying, prepare your documents early, tell your story clearly, and understand how the bursary prioritizes its funding. And above all, remember:

Education is the key — and the SETA bursary can help you unlock the door.

Quick Summary: What to Know About SETA Bursary Allowances

Need More Help?

If you’re unsure how to apply or want help preparing your documents, consider visiting your school’s career center or emailing the Services SETA bursary office directly.