Are you a high-achieving matric learner from a disadvantaged background who dreams of pursuing university studies but lacks the financial resources?
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is offering an undergraduate bursary opportunity for deserving students who want to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s future.
This bursary aims to support talented youth in fields that are critical to the country's economic and financial stability.
About the South African Reserve Bank
The SARB is South Africa’s central bank, playing a key role in maintaining price stability and financial system stability. It regulates the financial sector, designs and distributes South African currency, manages interest rates, and ensures the banking system remains strong and secure.
As part of its commitment to social and economic development, the SARB offers bursaries to help bridge the skills gap in the country and empower youth through access to higher education.
What the SARB Bursary Covers
The bursary provides financial assistance to qualifying undergraduate students who are pursuing studies at recognised South African universities. The programme specifically targets students from disadvantaged backgrounds and supports degrees that align with the Reserve Bank’s areas of interest.
SARB Bursary Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the South African Reserve Bank Bursary, applicants must:
- Be provisionally accepted into an undergraduate degree programme at a South African university
- Have achieved a minimum average of 70% in the June Matric/Grade 12 examinations
- Be younger than 30 years old at the time of application
- Demonstrate financial need (you must be unable to afford university fees without bursary support)
Note: The final awarding of the bursary is subject to the candidate’s final Matric results.
Fields of Study
Although the bursary is open to all undergraduate degrees at South African universities, preference may be given to fields related to:
- Economics
- Accounting
- Finance
- Mathematics
- Actuarial Science
- Information Technology
- Law
These areas support the Reserve Bank’s mission to ensure long-term financial stability in South Africa.
How to Apply
Applications for the SARB Undergraduate Bursary must be submitted online. Applicants should prepare the following supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your June Grade 12 results
- Proof of university application or provisional acceptance
- A motivational letter explaining your financial need and career goals
Click here to view the PDF document with full details.
Visit the official South African Reserve Bank website to access the application form and full bursary details.
Why Choose the SARB Bursary?
This bursary not only opens the door to a university education but also aligns you with one of South Africa’s most influential financial institutions. Successful bursary recipients may also have access to mentorship, career guidance, and possible employment opportunities with SARB after graduation.