South African Reserve Bank Bursary 2027 – Apply by 30 Sep 2026

Need financing for university ? The South African Reserve Bank External Bursary Scheme 2027 is open now, and the deadline is fast‑approaching. This is a chance to get full funding for a degree that aligns with the work of South Africa’s central bank.

What the bursary is

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is offering external bursaries to new undergraduate students for the 2027 academic year. The bursary is part of SARB’s social‑responsibility programme and aims to build the critical skills the country needs.

Who can apply

To qualify you must meet all of the following:

  • Be provisionally accepted for an undergraduate degree at a recognised South African university.
  • Have achieved at least a 70 % average in the June Grade 12 (Matric) exams.
  • Be younger than 30 years at the time of application.
  • Be in genuine financial need – you cannot afford university fees without assistance.
  • Final bursary award will be confirmed after the official Grade 12 results are released.

Fields of study that are eligible

Your chosen programme should relate to the SARB’s core functions. Acceptable areas include, but are not limited to:

  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Banking
  • Financial markets
  • Risk management
  • Data and analytics
  • Law
  • Information technology
  • Other subjects relevant to the central bank’s work

Check the official SARB bursary advert for the full list of approved courses.

What you gain

If you are selected, the bursary will cover tuition, registration fees and a living allowance for the duration of your studies. You will also receive:

  • Professional exposure to the financial sector.
  • Possible interview opportunities with SARB after graduation.
  • A formal bursary agreement that may include a short‑term work placement.

How to apply – step by step

  1. Gather the required documents:
    • Official Grade 12 results (or provisional results if you haven’t received the final scores yet).
    • Proof of acceptance from a recognised South African university.
    • Your student number.
    • Any additional paperwork requested on the application form.
  2. Download the official application form: DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM.
  3. Complete the form and write the promo code SARBEXT2027 in the indicated field.
  4. Submit your application:
  5. Wait for a confirmation email. If you are shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview.

Tips to improve your chances

  • Apply early – the closing date is Wednesday, 30 September 2026. Late submissions are not considered.
  • Double‑check that your average is at least 70 % and that your provisional acceptance is clearly shown.
  • Make sure every document is legible and correctly named before you upload or scan.
  • Prepare a brief personal statement that explains why you chose a SARB‑related field and how you plan to contribute to South Africa’s economy.
  • Practice common interview questions about teamwork, ethics and your chosen discipline.

Next steps

Start by confirming your provisional university acceptance and collecting your results. Then download the form, fill it in, and submit before the 30 September deadline. This bursary could remove the financial barrier to your degree and put you on a path toward a career in finance or economics.

Good luck – your future could start with SARB’s support.

Author: Donald Williams
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Donald is the founder and editor of Thapelo Madibeng Bursary, South Africa's trusted resource for bursaries, learnerships, internships, and funding opportunities. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment and educational access, Donald curates timely, verified updates to help students and unemployed youth unlock career pathways in various sectors.

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