PSiRA 2026 External Study Bursary: Applications Open

PSiRA 2026 External Study Bursary: Applications Open

Well, if you’ve been working in the private security industry or you’ve got a parent in the field, there’s some really good news. The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) has officially opened applications for their 2026 External Study Bursary, and honestly, this could be the break many families have been waiting for.

Actually, PSiRA’s aim with this bursary is pretty clear — to give back to the people who help keep South Africa safe every single day. The bursary is part of their Corporate Social Investment (CSI) efforts, and it’s designed to support both security officers and their legal children who are studying (or planning to study) at accredited learning institutions across the country.

So, let’s unpack this a bit.

PSIRA Bursary Requirements: Who Can Apply?

In our experience, one of the most common questions people ask when it comes to bursaries is, “Do I qualify?” Well, here’s what PSiRA says.

To qualify, you or your parent must be registered with PSiRA as a security officer. Both of you need to be South African citizens, and the learner should be between 19 and 35 years old.

You also need to have finished Grade 12 and already be accepted or enrolled at an accredited institution for the 2026 academic year.

And here’s something nice — applications are open to all provinces in South Africa, so whether you’re in Limpopo, KZN, or the Western Cape, you can still apply.

What Does the PSIRA Bursary Cover?

PSiRA’s bursary is actually quite generous compared to similar programs. Here’s what you can expect:

• Up to R25,000 per year (VAT included) if you’re studying a certificate course at a TVET college.
• Up to R45,000 per year (VAT included) if you’re doing an undergraduate diploma or degree at a university.
  
  

The bursary will only cover tuition fees for the 2026 academic year, so it’s a 12-month full-time support program.

However, studies confirm that PSiRA wants to focus on helping as many new students as possible — so postgraduate studies aren’t included.

If you’ve received PSiRA funding before, don’t worry, you can still apply again. Just make sure to attach your latest academic results and a statement showing your outstanding balance for the new year. You can also try to apply for Project 20K Graduate Internship for 2025/2027 if you are looking for something different.

Documents You’ll Need

Alright, let’s be practical. To make your application count, make sure you include everything they ask for — missing one document can get your application disqualified. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A fully completed application form (it’s attached to the bursary notice).
• Certified copies of your ID and your parent’s ID (certified within the last three months).
• Proof of registration or acceptance at a registered learning institution for 2026.
• Your parent’s or guardian’s PSiRA registration number.
• An affidavit confirming legal guardianship (if applicable).
• Your abridged birth certificate, just to confirm the legal relationship.
  
  

Our recommendation? Double-check everything before sending it off. You’d be surprised how often small errors or missing documents cause delays.

How to Apply

Now, once everything’s ready, send your complete application form and all the documents via email to: financial.aid@psira.co.za you may view and download the advert including the application form below.

Download Here: PSIRA Bursary 202 (Advert and Application Form)

Subject line: Attention: Senior Manager – Human Capital Management

And remember — the deadline is 31 December 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so don’t leave it until the last minute.

You may also apply for Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026 

Conclusion

 Education is still one of the best ways to change your future, and this bursary can take a big chunk of that financial pressure off your shoulders.

So, if you or your parent are part of South Africa’s private security family, this is your chance. Gather your documents, fill out the form, and hit “send” before the deadline.