FASSET Opens Applications for 2025 & 2026 Outstanding Study Debt Repayment

Student debt is one of the biggest challenges facing graduates in South Africa today. Many young professionals complete their studies successfully, only to find themselves trapped under the heavy burden of unpaid fees. 

The good news is that the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) has officially opened applications for its 2025 & 2026 Outstanding Study Debt Repayment Programme.

This initiative offers much-needed financial relief to graduates and professionals who owe money to universities, public institutions, or NSFAS, and it aims to help individuals move forward without being held back by unpaid tuition fees. 

If you’ve been worried about how to settle your outstanding study debt, this programme could be your chance to breathe again.

The application window closes at midnight (00:00) on 27 February 2026, so prospective applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Why the FASSET Study Debt Relief Matters

South Africa’s student debt crisis is no small issue. Each year, thousands of graduates struggle to access their certificates or transcripts because of outstanding balances owed to universities. For many, this becomes a barrier to finding stable employment or registering for further studies.

FASSET’s programme provides a lifeline by stepping in to settle study debt up to R80,000 per applicant per year. This is not just financial aid—it’s an opportunity for graduates and professionals to finally move forward with their careers, free of debt-related stress.

By targeting both employed and unemployed graduates, the programme makes it possible for people at different stages of their professional journey to benefit. Whether you’re already working in the Finance and Accounting Services (FAS) sector or still searching for your first big break, this initiative has been designed with you in mind.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained

Not everyone qualifies automatically for this funding. FASSET has outlined clear selection criteria to ensure the support goes to those who need it most. Here’s a closer look at the eligibility requirements:

Employment in the FASSET sector: Applicants must currently work in the Finance and Accounting Services sector, be affiliated with a professional body within the sector, or be employed in cross-sectoral roles such as NGOs or community-based organisations relevant to the FASSET mandate.

Qualification requirement: You must have completed a qualification that is directly relevant to the FAS sector. Even if you are currently unemployed, you can still apply—provided your completed qualification is relevant to this industry.

Income threshold:

Employed applicants earning R660,000 or less per year are eligible.

Unemployed applicants will be assessed based on their household income, which must be R1 million or less per year.

Outstanding study loan: If you took out a loan with NSFAS or another higher public learning institution to fund your studies, and that loan covered a completed qualification relevant to the FAS sector, you can apply.

Settlement cap: The maximum settlement amount is R80,000 per applicant per year, and approval will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis depending on available budget.

These criteria are designed to strike a balance between supporting those in financial need while ensuring the programme’s resources are spread fairly across eligible applicants.

Documents You Will Need to Apply

Like most funding programmes, applications won’t be considered unless you provide the correct documentation. FASSET has made it clear that applicants must refer to Section F of the guidelines for compulsory documents, which must be submitted in PDF format.

These documents include:

• A certified copy of your ID or passport.
• Proof of employment (if employed) or household income affidavit (if unemployed).
• Academic transcripts and proof of completed qualification.
• Proof of outstanding debt from the institution or NSFAS.

Important: FASSET has reserved the right to decline any application that is missing documents, so double-check everything before submission.

How Much Can You Get?

One of the most attractive features of this programme is the R80,000 maximum settlement available per applicant, per year. For many graduates, this could mean clearing their entire outstanding balance in one go.

For others with larger debts, it may significantly reduce the amount owed, making it easier to negotiate repayment with the institution. Either way, the support offers meaningful relief that could remove one of the biggest financial obstacles graduates face.

First-Come, First-Served: Why You Should Apply Early

FASSET has made it clear that funding is limited, and applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that even if you meet all the requirements, waiting until the last minute to apply could reduce your chances of success if the budget runs out.

To avoid disappointment, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their forms as early as possible.

How to Apply for the FASSET Study Debt Repayment Programme

The application process is straightforward and fully online. Here’s how you can apply:

Visit the official application link: https://forms.office.com/r/hj5NyP22ZS

Fill in your personal information accurately, making sure all details match your supporting documents.

Upload all compulsory documents in PDF format as instructed.

Review your application carefully before submitting.

Save a copy or screenshot of your completed form for your records.

When Will You Hear Back?

According to FASSET, communication will only be sent to successful applicants. If you don’t receive any feedback within three months, you are advised to consider your application unsuccessful.

This waiting period can feel long, but it’s important to be patient as the selection process is thorough.

Impact on Graduates and Professionals

Beyond financial relief, this initiative has the potential to create long-lasting change. By helping graduates settle their debts, FASSET is removing barriers that prevent talented individuals from progressing in their careers.

For employed graduates, this could mean finally obtaining certificates that were withheld due to unpaid fees, opening the door to promotions or professional registration.

For unemployed graduates, it creates a fairer playing field, as they can now access transcripts needed to apply for jobs or postgraduate studies.

This programme, therefore, contributes not only to individual empowerment but also to broader economic participation.

Why FASSET is Doing This

As a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA), FASSET’s mission is to “Make the Future Count” by supporting skills development in the Finance and Accounting Services sector.

By offering debt relief, FASSET is ensuring that financial struggles don’t waste the potential of graduates who have already invested years into their education. It’s a way of unlocking talent, ensuring that qualified individuals can enter the workforce with confidence.

Key Dates to Remember

Application Opening: Already open for 2025 & 2026.

Application Deadline: Midnight (00:00) on 27 February 2026.

Feedback Timeline: Within 3 months (only for successful applicants).

Final Thoughts

The FASSET Outstanding Study Debt Repayment Programme is more than just financial aid—it’s a lifeline for graduates who want to move forward in their careers without being weighed down by the past.

If you are employed or unemployed and meet the eligibility requirements, this is your chance to apply for relief of up to R80,000. Don’t wait until February 2026—apply early, prepare your documents carefully, and give yourself the best chance at success.

Remember: education is an investment in your future, and with initiatives like this, organisations like FASSET are making sure that investment truly pays off.