Time is running out – the Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme opens on 1 June and closes on 30 September, and it could be the financial lifeline you need to finish your studies this year.
What the Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme offers
The bursary is designed to reward academic excellence and to help shape the next generation of African talent and leaders. It supports both undergraduate and postgraduate learners who study in selected fields that are critical to South Africa’s economic future.
Who can apply
Undergraduate students
- Must be enrolled full‑time at a South African public university.
- Must have successfully completed the first year of study and need funding from the second year onward.
- Latest results of at least 65 %.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Willingness to take part in a formal assessment (psychometric test and interview).
Postgraduate students
- Must be enrolled full‑time in a postgraduate programme (up to a Master’s degree) at a South African public university.
- Latest results of at least 65 %.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Willingness to participate in the same formal assessment process.
What you will receive
The bursary is a full‑cost award. It may cover:
- University tuition fees.
- Accommodation – either university residence or approved private housing (subject to limits).
- Meals – university catering or a self‑catering allowance.
- Textbooks and other study materials.
- A laptop computer.
- A monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Four annual transport trips between home and campus, based on the cost of a standard bus ticket.
Funded fields of study
Applications are only accepted if your qualification falls within one of the following areas:
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Science
- Statistics
- Technology
- Behavioural Economics
Within Science and Technology, relevant specialisations include:
- Actuarial Science
- Analytics
- Business Science
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Information Science
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Information Technology
Behavioural Economics‑related subjects may cover:
- Economics
- Behavioural Finance
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Make sure your chosen qualification matches one of these areas before you apply.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Proof of all academic results to date (transcripts).
- Grade 12 certificate.
- Full tertiary academic record.
- Proof of combined household income.
- Visit the official application portal at the Standard Bank Group Bursary application page.
- Create an account or log in, then start a new application.
- Complete the personal and academic sections, ensuring all figures are accurate.
- Upload the scanned documents in clear, legible PDF format.
- Review the whole form, confirm that every required field is filled, and submit before the 30 September deadline.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start early – collecting income statements and transcripts can take weeks.
- Proofread your motivation letter; link your field of study to future leadership or problem‑solving in Africa.
- Prepare for the psychometric test by practising online sample questions.
- Be honest about financial need; inaccurate information can lead to disqualification.
- Check that every uploaded file is under the prescribed size limit and clearly labelled.
Insider tip: Your academic record opens the door, but a focused motivation that shows how you will use the bursary to drive impact will set you apart.
Next steps
The Standard Bank Group Bursary 2027 is a competitive but valuable source of funding. If you meet the eligibility criteria, assemble your documents now and submit your application before 30 September. Early submission gives you time to correct any issues and prepares you for the assessment stage.
Good luck, and take the first step toward a debt‑free future today.