Are you a student in the Western Cape dreaming of a higher education but worried about the financial burden? The Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET) is here to help you turn those dreams into reality! We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the ASSET Bursary Programme for the 2025 academic year. This is a fantastic opportunity for deserving students to receive financial support to pursue their undergraduate studies, regardless of their field of study.
About ASSET
Founded in January 2003, the Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Previously under the South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR), which established its bursary programme in 1972, ASSET continues this legacy by supporting around 500 students each year. Thanks to generous contributions from local, national, and international donors, ASSET provides vital educational funding to those who need it most.
What the ASSET Bursary Offers
The ASSET Bursary Programme offers financial assistance to students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification (degree, diploma, or higher certificate) in any field of study within the Western Cape. The bursary generally covers a portion of tuition fees, registration costs, and books, with payments made directly to the educational institutions.
Key aspects of the bursary include:
- Merit and Need-Based Awards: Bursaries are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.
- Renewable Funding: Students are funded for the duration of their undergraduate studies, provided they maintain good academic standing and re-apply each year.
- No Repayment Required: While bursary recipients do not have to repay the funds, they are encouraged to contribute to their communities by joining the ASSET Alumni Association and completing a minimum of 100 voluntary hours.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the ASSET Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen residing in the Western Cape.
- Currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- Studying or intending to study full-time towards a first undergraduate qualification.
- Registered at a recognized institution in the Western Cape (UCT, UWC, Stellenbosch, or CPUT).
- Monthly household income of less than R18,000 for a family with two children (with allowances for additional children).
- Not previously excluded from NSFAS funding due to poor performance.
- Preference for students from rural areas, informal settlements, or those who have attended under-resourced schools.
How to Apply
Ready to apply? Here’s how:
- Download the Application Forms:
- New or first-time applicants: ASSET Bursary Application Form (New Applicants) (.pdf)
- Existing/ returning bursary holders: ASSET Bursary Application Form (Renewal) (.pdf)
- Prepare Your Documentation:
- Certified ID document.
- 2024 mid-year results or full academic transcripts.
- Proof of household income.
- Motivational letter.
- Contactable reference.
- Submit Your Application:
- Email: [email protected] (Include “ASSET Bursary Application 2025” in the subject line).
- Post or Hand Delivery: Bursary Department Association for Educational Transformation (ASSET) 5 Long Street Mowbray 7700 Western Cape
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2024. Make sure to submit your application before this date to be considered.
Don’t miss out on this chance to advance your education with the support of the ASSET Bursary Programme. Apply today and take the first step towards a brighter future!