ETDP SETA Bursary Requirements for 2024 Academic Year
The Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) provides bursaries annually to deserving youths pursuing studies in key scarce skills areas. If you intend applying for an ETDP SETA bursary for the 2024 academic year, you need to ensure you meet the stipulated requirements to be eligible.
While the official 2024 bursary requirements are yet to be published, we can look at previous years’ criteria and eligibility guidelines to get a sense of what will likely be expected of applicants this coming year. This allows you to prepare in advance and improve your chances of securing the bursary funding.
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How to Apply for a SETA Bursary 2024
Overview of ETDP SETA Bursaries
The ETDP SETA bursary program aims to support academically deserving and financially needy students by funding their studies in fields related to education, training and skills development. This helps build critical scarce skills in the sector.
Bursaries are awarded from first year undergraduate level all the way to postgraduate studies. Funding covers tuition, books, accommodation and related academic expenses to remove the financial barriers to education for disadvantaged youth.
Competition is stiff, so meeting the stipulated requirements gives your application the best shot. Applications usually open around May-July annually.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for one of the limited ETDP SETA bursaries for 2024, you will need to comply with these expected general requirements:
South African Citizenship
Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents with a valid SA ID book or card. Your ID number will be required. Foreign students do not qualify for these local bursaries.
Age Limit
You must be between 18-35 years old in the year of applying. This age bracket targets youths specifically. Mature students above 35 may be considered on exception based on merit.
Financial Need
Since these bursaries aim to aid economically disadvantaged students, you will need to prove you lack financial means or rely on social grants/loans. If your family exceeds a certain income threshold, your application may be declined.
Previously Disadvantaged Background
While not compulsory, students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds such as townships, rural villages and farms are often prioritized, in the spirit of transformation through education.
Full-time Studies
The bursary requires you to register as a full-time student at an accredited institution, not part-time or via distance learning. Your time and focus must be dedicated to your studies.
Meeting the above general criteria is essential to even have your ETDP SETA bursary application considered for 2024. You also need to meet certain academic requirements.
Academic Requirements
The ETDP SETA sets specific academic standards applicants must meet to qualify for funding based on their level of study. Expect to the see the following academic criteria:
Matric Certificate
For undergraduate studies, you must have a National Senior Certificate (Matric) or equivalent. Your matric aggregates and grades in key subjects will determine eligibility for specific degrees.
Minimum Aggregates
For diplomas, a minimum matric aggregate of 50-60% is typically required. For degrees, aggregates of 65% or 70% may be expected depending on the field of study. First-year entrants with very high aggregates will have preference.
University Acceptance
You must already have received provisional acceptance into your chosen accredited higher learning institution and field of study. The acceptance letter will be required. Provisional funding may be revoked if you ultimately don’t succeed in registering for your chosen qualification.
Field of Study
Not all degrees qualify for the bursary. Your chosen diploma or degree must be in fields designated as “scarce skills” by the ETDP SETA. These may include:
- Information Technology (IT) related qualifications
- Engineering and technical studies
- Mathematics and Science Teaching
- Finance and Accounting qualifications
- Agriculture and Nature Conservation qualifications
- Legal Studies
Priority fields are updated annually depending on South Africa’s shifting skills priorities. The bursary application form will specify eligible qualifications.
Academic Performance
If already at University, your latest academic transcript will be required reflecting at least a 60% passing average. Academic excellence is highly favored to continue receiving the bursary each year. Poor performance may lead to discontinuation of funding.
The better your academic record, the higher your chances of securing the competitive ETDP SETA bursary.
Additional Eligibility Considerations
Along with meeting the above general and academic requirements, note the following additional factors can enhance or hinder your eligibility:
Community Service Experience
Being actively involved in organizations providing community upliftment through volunteering or outreach work will improve your chances. Give details in your application.
Leadership Roles
Experience in leadership roles at school or community level indicates positive qualities like responsibility that will work in your favor.
Medical Fitness
You may need to undergo a medical check and health assessment to ensure you are physically able to cope with the demands of full-time studying.
Disability
The ETDP SETA does award some bursaries to students with disabilities. However, proof of capability to complete the qualification is required.
Work Experience
Prior internships, apprenticeships or work experience in your field of study or ETDP SETA sector may give your application a boost.
Criminal Record
Having any criminal offences may immediately disqualify you on ethical grounds. Candidate vetting forms part of the application process.
Preparing a Strong Bursary Application
To ensure you submit a compelling application that stands out from the crowds of applicants, here are some tips:
- Research the eligible qualifications and institutions thoroughly before applying.
- Start preparing your application well in advance of the opening date.
- Gather all the required supporting documents for the application such as your ID, matric results, academic records, proof of income, acceptance letter etc.
- Draft an excellent motivational letter that highlights why you deserve the bursary over other applicants.
- Check and double check that every eligibility requirement is met before applying.
- Complete the online ETDP SETA bursary application form fully, honestly and accurately before the cut-off date.
- Arrange your supporting documents neatly and clearly label them.
Following this advice will help your application impress the ETDP SETA selection panel right from the start.
Conclusion
The ETDP SETA bursary program opens doors to higher education, but to unlock those doors, prospective candidates need to meet the stipulated requirements. While the exact 2024 criteria are still unconfirmed, this article covers the likely eligibility guidelines to expect based on historical precedents.
I hope the information above provides a helpful headstart in preparing your bursary application for the 2024 intake. Kindly check the ETDP SETA website as the year progresses for the official updated requirements. All the best!
FAQs
Here are some common questions about the ETDP SETA bursary requirements:
Do I need a certain matric points score to qualify?
This varies based on the qualification but diploma applicants need 50-60% aggregates and degree applicants 65-70% aggregates typically.
What if I am not accepted at university yet when applications open?
You can still apply provisionally but need to provide proof of acceptance before funding can be awarded.
What documents must I submit with my bursary application?
Certified copies of your ID, matric certificate, academic records, university acceptance letter, income statements of parents and yourself etc.
Can I apply with my National Senior Certificate from 2014?
The amended NSC implemented from 2008 onwards is approved. Pre-2008 Senior Certificates may not meet the required standards.
How do I get my official academic transcripts?
Request your latest school or university academic records and transcripts early so they are ready to include in your bursary application.
What if I am above the max age limit of 35 years old?
You can request special consideration based on merit but priority is given to youths between ages 18-35 in line with the SETA’s objectives.
If shortlisted, do I need to be interviewed?
Yes, typically shortlisted candidates undergo an in-person or virtual interview with the bursary selection panel as a final eligibility check.