South Africa needs more bright minds in finance and tech, and the clock is already ticking. Coronation Fund Managers is offering an Exceptional Student Bursary for the 2027 study year, and the deadline is this August.
What is the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary?
The bursary is run by Coronation Fund Managers. It funds full‑time undergraduate students who plan to start or continue study in 2027. The funding covers tuition, books, accommodation and living costs, plus mentorship and career‑development opportunities. The programme focuses on Commerce, Finance, Data Analysis, Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering and Computer Engineering, as well as related fields.
Key details:
- Provider: Coronation Fund Managers
- Programme: Exceptional Student Bursary
- Academic year: 2027
- Study level: Undergraduate (full‑time)
- Study locations: Any recognised South African university or higher‑education institution
- Minimum Matric average: 75%
- Minimum tertiary average: 70%
- Work‑back: May be required if Coronation offers you a job after graduation
- Application closes: Wednesday 19 August 2026 at 12:00 midday
Who can apply?
You must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen
- From a disadvantaged background
- Enrolled or planning to enrol full‑time in 2027
- Pursuing an eligible undergraduate degree in one of the listed fields
- Strong academic record (see grades below)
- Leadership potential, good character and community involvement
- Willingness to fulfil any work‑back condition
- Studying at an institution registered with the South African higher‑education authorities
Matric requirements (for Grade 12 learners)
- Bachelor’s pass
- Overall average ≥ 75%
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) as a subject
- Good marks in subjects related to the chosen degree
University requirements (for current tertiary students)
- Overall average ≥ 70%
- Good results from the most recent completed year
- Full‑time registration for 2026
- Eligibility for an undergraduate degree (not a diploma, N‑certificate, honours, master’s or doctorate)
Study year eligibility
Students in their first, second or final year of an eligible bachelor’s programme may apply. Funding is reviewed each year; it is not guaranteed for the whole study period.
Who cannot apply?
- Students enrolled in N4–N6, higher certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, master’s or PhD programmes
- Applicants at TVET colleges, community or private colleges, graduate/business schools, international universities or distance‑learning institutions (including UNISA)
What you will receive
- Full tuition coverage and a living‑cost allowance
- Academic mentorship and professional development support
- Networking opportunities with investment‑management professionals
- Possible consideration for employment after graduation
- Annual review of funding based on academic performance and engagement
Funding is not automatically renewed; each year you must meet the same academic standards and remain a full‑time student.
How to apply – step by step
Follow these steps to submit a complete application.
- Visit the official portal: Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary Application 2027. Create an account and start the online form.
- Fill in all personal and academic details accurately. Double‑check dates and contact information.
- Upload the required documents (see list below). All certified copies must be less than three months old.
- Write a 1–2 page statement explaining why you chose your field of study and how you will use it after graduation.
- Provide one non‑family reference letter that speaks to your character or academic performance.
- Submit your application before 12:00 midday on 19 August 2026.
Documents you need to upload
- Certified copy of your South African ID (or passport for non‑SA IDs)
- Matric results (Grade 11 report, Grade 12 certificate and final report) – certified
- Full tertiary academic record (transcripts for all years attended) – certified
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter for 2027 study (official letter from the university)
- Proof of household income (SASSA documents, three recent payslips, or self‑employment registration). Include a police affidavit if parents/guardians are unemployed.
- Evidence of any other funding (NSFAS, other bursaries) or a police affidavit stating you have not received such funding.
- Updated CV (maximum two pages)
- One recommendation letter (non‑relative, with contact details)
- For applicants under 18: signed guardian consent form and a certified copy of the guardian’s ID (downloadable from the portal).
Additional documents for specific situations
- If you have a disability, submit an EEA‑1 form and a medical diagnosis letter.
- If you have outstanding university fees, provide a police affidavit confirming you owe nothing.
- Accommodation lease or invoice for 2027 (if you will live off‑campus).
- Book quotations for your first‑year textbooks.
Tips to improve your chances
- Ensure your averages meet the minimum (75% Matric, 70% tertiary) before you apply.
- Upload clear, legible scans. Blur or low‑quality images can lead to rejection.
- Tailor your personal statement to the chosen field and future goals.
- Choose a referee who knows your academic work or community involvement.
- Disclose all other funding and employment truthfully.
- Submit early – this gives you time to fix any missing documents.
Next steps
The application window closes on Wednesday 19 August 2026 at 12:00 midday. Do not rely on later dates you may see on third‑party sites. Start your application now, gather the required paperwork, and submit before the deadline. This bursary could be the launchpad for a career in finance, technology or investment management.
