Need money for university? The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) External Bursary Programme 2027 can help you start your degree without the financial stress. The application deadline is fast approaching – you have until 30 September 2026 to apply.
What the opportunity is
The SARB External Bursary Scheme offers full‑time undergraduate funding for the 2027 academic year. It targets South African students who are bright, come from disadvantaged backgrounds and need financial support.
Who can apply
- South African citizenship
- Under 30 years old
- Matric completed or currently completing Matric
- Planning to study full‑time for an undergraduate degree
- Starting the first year of study in 2027
- Accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised South African university
- Matric average of at least 70 %
- Demonstrated financial need and disadvantaged background
What you gain
- Tuition fees covered for the full undergraduate programme
- Allowance for books, accommodation and living expenses (as per the bursary terms)
- Valuable exposure to the central bank’s work and possible future career paths
- Professional development and networking opportunities
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents (see list below).
- Prepare a short motivational essay of about 250 words.
- Visit the official online portal at SARB Bursary Application and fill in the form.
- Enter the promotional code SARBEXT27 when prompted.
- If you prefer a paper application, download the PDF form from SARB External Bursary Application Form 2027.
- Attach clear, certified copies of all documents and email them to sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za or post them to the address below.
- Submit your complete application before the closing date.
Required documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric June results (if you are still in Matric) or final Matric certificate
- Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance at a university for 2027 (official letterhead, include student number)
- Motivational essay (≈250 words)
Missing any document may lead to disqualification, so double‑check everything before you send it.
Selection process
- Applications are assessed once a year; you do not need to reapply each year if you are selected.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within one month after 30 September 2026.
- If you do not hear back in that time, assume your application was not successful.
- Shortlisted applicants may have to sit a test and attend an interview.
- Successful recipients must sign a bursary agreement with SARB.
Tips to improve your chances
- Make sure your essay clearly explains why you need the bursary and how your chosen field aligns with SARB’s work.
- Proofread all documents for legibility and accuracy.
- Submit certified copies – a blurry or unreadable scan can hurt your application.
- Keep copies of everything you send, and note the date you submitted.
- Prepare for the possible test and interview by reviewing basic concepts in your field of study.
Contact and enquiries
For any questions about the programme, you can contact TTI Bursaries:
Phone: 010 746 4366
Email: info@ttibursaries.co.za
Applications can be posted to:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston
2021
Final thoughts
The SARB External Bursary 2027 offers a solid chance to study without the burden of tuition fees, especially in high‑demand areas such as Accounting, Actuarial Science, Economics, Finance, IT, Law, Statistics, Medicine, Dentistry and other scarce‑skill fields. If you meet the criteria, apply before 30 September 2026 and ensure every required document is included. Good luck, and take the first step toward a brighter future today.
