The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme 2026 is now open for applications, giving academically strong and financially deserving South African students the chance to pursue their studies with full financial support. This bursary is part of Standard Bank’s commitment to nurturing African talent and empowering the next generation of leaders across the continent.
Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Location: South Africa
About the Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme
The bursary programme is designed to provide full-cost funding for both undergraduate and postgraduate students in carefully selected fields of study. It focuses on rewarding academic excellence while ensuring that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are not excluded from pursuing higher education due to financial challenges.
Through this initiative, Standard Bank aims to strengthen key industries by investing in young people who will drive innovation, progress, and leadership across Africa.
Undergraduate Bursary
The undergraduate bursary is available to students who:
- Have successfully completed their first year of study.
- Require financial assistance from their second year onwards.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and potential.
This bursary ensures that high-achieving undergraduate students are able to continue their studies without financial barriers while preparing for impactful careers.
Postgraduate Bursary
For postgraduate students, the bursary offers full financial support to pursue advanced qualifications in specialized study areas. It is specifically designed for those who are academically sound and motivated to contribute to Africa’s development through their chosen fields.
The postgraduate bursary supports students who want to further their knowledge, conduct research, and gain expertise in disciplines that are essential for the continent’s growth.
Fields of Study Covered
The Standard Bank Group Bursaries 2026 will be awarded in the following fields:
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Science (Actuarial, Analytics, Business, Computer, Data, Information)
- Statistics
- Technology (Financial Technology, Information Technology)
- Behavioural Economics and related disciplines, including:
- Economics
- Behavioural Finance
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Selection Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered:
- Achieved a minimum of 65% average in the latest examinations.
- Registered for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
- Must participate in a formal assessment process, which may include:
- Psychometric evaluations.
- An interview stage.
- Financial need will also be taken into consideration.
What the Bursary Covers
The Standard Bank Bursary Programme provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full coverage of university fees.
- Accommodation costs, either in a university residence or private housing (subject to limits).
- Meals, either provided by the university or through self-catering allowances.
- Books and other study materials required for the course.
- A laptop computer to support learning.
- A monthly stipend for other living expenses.
- Transport assistance between home and campus up to four times a year (based on bus ticket costs).
Why Apply for the Standard Bank Bursary?
- It is a full-cost bursary, covering every aspect of student life.
- It supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- It focuses on disciplines that are highly relevant to Africa’s future growth.
- It provides access to career opportunities within Standard Bank and beyond.
- It helps students focus on their studies without financial stress.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online at: Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme 2026
Conclusion
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme 2026 is an excellent opportunity for ambitious South African students who are passionate about their studies and determined to make a difference in their chosen fields. With full financial support and a strong emphasis on academic excellence, this bursary provides the foundation for students to thrive and become future leaders.
Application Closing Date: 30 September 2025
