ASSET is a non-profit organization based in the Western Cape, established in January 2003. It has a rich history of providing educational support to underprivileged students and was formerly affiliated with the SA Institute of Race Relations' Cape Western Region. Thanks to the generous contributions of local, national, and international donors, ASSET has been able to make a significant impact on educational development in the country, and has greatly contributed to the betterment of the community it serves.
Bursary description
The South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) Western Cape Region established the Bursary Programme in 1972. In 2003, ASSET took over the programme, and it has been supporting approximately 500 students annually through the ongoing generosity of donors.
Applications are accepted from 1 July to 30 September each year. Interested applicants can download the application form from the website or collect it from the ASSET offices. It is advised to read the first page of the application form carefully before completing it. Selection criteria terms of reference apply.
Applicants must submit completely filled-in forms with all required documents before the deadline. They can be returned physically to the ASSET offices, emailed to bursary@asset.org.za, or uploaded on the website. If applicants live on the outskirts of the Cape Town Metropolitan, postage can be used.
Returning students must re-apply each year to be considered for a renewal of a bursary. Terms and conditions apply.
The Bursary Selection Committee meets once a year, in mid-February. It comprises an ASSET Board member who acts as Chair, two other board members, including the executive director, the bursary administrator, and the financial aid representatives of the higher education institutions.
Requirements and eligibility
ELIGIBILITY:
• The bursary is only available to South African citizens who are residing in the Western Cape.
• Students who are pursuing a degree, diploma or higher certificate are eligible to apply.
APPLICATIONS:
• Applications can only be made for a University or University of Technology in the Western Cape, and not for private institutions or FET Colleges.
• Due to the high number of applications, only successful candidates will be notified by the end of February.
BURSARY AWARDS:
• Awards are granted by a Selection Committee that meets in early February, based on merit and financial need.
• Priority is given to financially needy students from less advantaged communities when funds are limited.
• The awards vary and cover a portion of the cost of tuition and books.
• ASSET bursaries do not have to be repaid, but graduates are required to join the ASSET Alumni Association and give back after graduation (more information available at the bursary office).
• Bursary funds are paid directly to the tertiary institutions.
