PSIRA invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 External Study Bursary Programme.
The closing date for applications is 31 December 2025.
Quick Facts About the PSIRA 2026 Bursary
| What you need to know | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | PSIRA External Study Bursary 2026 |
| Who can apply? | Registered security officers and their legal children |
| What can you study? | Any accredited certificate, diploma or degree at DHET‑registered schools |
| Levels covered | TVET certificates, undergraduate diplomas and degrees (no post‑graduates) |
| Tuition covered | Full‑time tuition for the 2026 academic year (12 months) |
| Maximum aid | R25,000 per year for TVET, R45,000 per year for university |
| All provinces | Open to learners anywhere in South Africa |
| Age limit | 19 – 35 years |
| Deadline | 31 December 2025 |
| Send your application to | financial.aid@psira.co.za (Senior Manager, Human Capital Management) |
What the Bursary Actually Pays For
- TVET College Learners – Up to R25,000 a year (VAT included) for certificate courses at DHET‑registered TVET colleges.
- University / University of Technology Learners – Up to R45,000 a year (VAT included) for undergraduate diplomas or degrees at accredited universities.
Only tuition fees are covered.
Post‑graduate studies (Honours, Masters, PhDs) are not funded.
If you were funded in a previous year, you must send your latest grades and a statement of any unpaid tuition.
Who Is Eligible?
- Connected to the private security sector –
- You are a registered security officer working for a private security company, or
- You are the legal child of a registered security officer.
- Citizenship – Both you and the registered officer must be South African citizens.
- Age – 19 to 35 years old.
- Education – Finished Grade 12 (Matric) and accepted or enrolled for 2026 at a DHET‑registered institution.
- Location – All South African provinces are welcome.
Documents You Must Submit
| Document | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Completed application form | Shows all the required info. |
| Certified ID copies (learner and parent/guardian) | Proof of identity. |
| Proof of enrolment or acceptance (acceptance letter, registration proof, etc.) | Shows you are on track to study in 2026. |
| PSIRA registration number (of the officer) | Confirms your link to the industry. |
| Affidavit (if needed) | If a legal guardian, not the biological parent, is in charge. |
| Birth certificate (abridged) | Shows parentage. |
| Previous funding details (if you were funded before) | Latest results and any outstanding tuition. |
Tip: All documents must be certified, up‑to‑date, and attached when you send the email.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Get the form – Download the PSIRA External Study Bursary 2026 application from the official site.
- Fill it out – Enter your details, your guardian’s details, and your study plan.
- Prepare documents – Make certified copies of IDs, your matric, enrolment proof, birth certificate, etc.
- Check everything – Make sure the form is signed, the PSIRA registration number is correct, and all docs are attached.
- Email your application – Send the completed form and all documents to:
financial.aid@psira.co.za
Attention: Senior Manager, Human Capital Management - Be on time – Submit by 31 December 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why This Bursary Matters
- Breaks the cost barrier – Many security officers and their children find higher‑education fees tough to pay.
- Boosts career prospects – Better qualifications can lead to higher wages or new roles.
- Supports the next generation – Legal children can study any subject at an accredited institution.
- Strengthens the sector – Educated families help the entire private security industry grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
- Registered security officers and their legal children, South African citizens, aged 19‑35, who have finished Grade 12 and are enrolled for 2026 at a DHET‑registered school.
What subjects are covered?
- Any field that is a certificate, diploma, or degree at a DHET‑registered TVET college, university, or university of technology. Post‑graduates are excluded.
Can I apply while already studying?
- Yes. Just keep the age, citizenship, and registration requirements in mind. If you had funding before, send your latest results and fee statement.
Does it pay for living costs?
- No. Only tuition fees. Other expenses like room, board, transport, and books are your responsibility unless stated otherwise.
How much can I get?
- R25,000 per year for TVET certificates, and R45,000 per year for undergraduate diplomas and degrees. The final amount is decided by PSIRA.
When will I hear back?
- After the deadline, PSIRA reviews all applications and will contact successful candidates by the contact details you supplied. Keep your phone and email active.
Important Reminder
- This information comes from PSIRA’s official announcement.
- Always double‑check the latest details directly with PSIRA before submitting anything.
- The application link and form are the only legitimate sources.
Apply now to secure your spot and start building a brighter future with the PSIRA 2026 Bursary!
