Many talented Matric learners are missing out on university because they cannot afford it. The Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary offers a lifeline, and the deadline is fast approaching – you have until 31 August 2026 to apply.
What the bursary offers
This is a 2027 programme that pays for the full cost of your first year at a recognised South African university. It includes:
- Full tuition fees
- University accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials (books, stationery, etc.)
Beyond money, the bursary gives you private tutoring, career guidance, resilience training, mental‑health support, and financial‑wellbeing sessions. High‑performing recipients may also receive help with a driver’s licence, an all‑expenses‑paid #Changeblazer gathering, and a professional wardrobe for their first job.
Who can apply
You must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Under 21 years old in 2027
- Completing Grade 12 in 2026
- Planning to start full‑time first‑year study at a recognised university in 2027
- Choosing a qualification in one of the funded fields (see below)
- Meeting the university’s entry requirements for that qualification
- Strong academic record (preferably at least 70 % in Grade 11 English and Mathematics or Sciences)
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Genuine financial need – household income less than R600 000 per year (mitigating circumstances may be considered)
Fields of study that are funded
- Business, finance and economics
- Technology and computer science
- Engineering
- Healthcare (excluding dentistry, medicine and veterinary science)
- Psychology
- Education
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official application page: Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary 2027.
- Select the bursary application option.
- Register a profile on the Career Wise portal.
- Fill in all personal and academic details.
- Enter the promotional code NINETY ONE exactly as shown.
- Upload clear, readable copies of the required documents (see list below).
- Double‑check that household‑income figures in payslips, affidavits or grant records match what you entered.
- Submit the completed application before 31 August 2026.
Documents you will need
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified Grade 11 results
- Certified latest Grade 12 results
- Proof of university application or provisional admission for 2027
- Proof of household income (pay‑slips, SASSA grant confirmation, pension statements, or an affidavit if parents are unemployed)
Make sure every file is clear and named logically. Missing or blurry files can delay your application or lead to disqualification.
Tips to boost your chances
- Enter the promotional code NINETY ONE exactly as required.
- Check that all income documents agree with each other.
- Proofread every section – incomplete answers hurt your score.
- Use a current email address and mobile number; Career Wise will contact you there.
- Submit well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- Highlight leadership activities and any community work in your personal statement.
- Keep copies of everything you upload, in case you need to resend.
What happens after you apply
Career Wise will validate and screen all submissions. The timeline is:
- October‑December 2026: Shortlisted candidates are invited to panel interviews.
- By December 2026: Successful applicants may receive provisional acceptance.
- January 2027: Final bursary awards are confirmed after the official Grade 12 results are released.
Provisional acceptance is not a guarantee. You must maintain the required grades and meet university entry standards to receive the final award.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Using the wrong promotional code.
- Uploading blurred or incomplete documents.
- Providing inconsistent household‑income information.
- Leaving academic or leadership sections blank.
- Submitting with an inactive email or phone number.
- Waiting until the final day to register.
- Missing any communication from Career Wise.
- Submitting after the 31 August 2026 deadline.
Need help?
For any questions about the application, contact Career Wise directly:
Phone: 011 258 4464
Email: info@careerwise.co.za
Include your full name and any reference number you receive.
Final thoughts
The Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary does more than pay your fees – it gives you a solid support network to help you succeed at university. Start gathering your documents now, double‑check every detail, and submit before 31 August 2026 using the promotional code NINETY ONE. This could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your career goals.