For many South African learners, getting accepted to university is only half the battle. The next challenge is often finding enough funding to cover tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, meals, and other essential study costs.
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is helping address this challenge through its External Bursary Scheme for 2027, giving academically talented learners from financially disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies at recognised South African universities.
If you are currently in Grade 12, have strong marks, and need financial assistance to further your education, this bursary could help turn your university dreams into reality.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | South African Reserve Bank External Bursary Scheme 2027 |
|---|---|
| Organisation | South African Reserve Bank (SARB) |
| Programme Type | Undergraduate Bursary |
| Study Level | Undergraduate Degree |
| Location | South Africa |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 |
| Academic Requirement | Minimum 70% average in June Grade 12 exams |
| Age Requirement | Under 30 years old |
| Financial Requirement | Must demonstrate financial need |
| Application Methods | Online, Email, Post |
| Promo Code | SARBEXT2027 |
Why the SARB Bursary Matters
South Africa continues to face critical skills shortages in finance, economics, technology, data analytics, and other professional sectors.
Every year, thousands of capable learners are unable to register for university because of financial barriers. The SARB External Bursary Scheme aims to remove those barriers by investing in talented young people who have the potential to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic future.
Beyond funding your studies, this bursary provides something even more valuable: access to qualifications that can open doors to long-term professional careers.
Future Employability: How This Bursary Can Shape Your Career
Many students focus only on the immediate financial relief offered by a bursary. However, the real value lies in the career opportunities that follow after graduation.
Fields linked to the South African Reserve Bank are among the most sought-after professions in the country. Graduates often move into careers within:
- Banking
- Financial Services
- Economic Research
- Data Analytics
- Information Technology
- Risk Management
- Investment Firms
- Government Departments
- Regulatory Institutions
- Consulting Firms
Students who qualify in these fields frequently develop highly transferable skills such as:
- Data analysis
- Financial modelling
- Problem-solving
- Research methodology
- Business communication
- Regulatory compliance
- Strategic decision-making
These skills remain in demand across both the public and private sectors, increasing long-term employability and career stability.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary supports qualifications that align with the work and mandate of the South African Reserve Bank.
Examples include:
- Economics
- Accounting
- Finance
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Law
- Risk Management
- Banking
- Financial Management
- Actuarial Science
- Business Management
- Commerce Degrees
Other relevant qualifications may also be considered.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Achieve a minimum average of 70% in their June Grade 12 examinations
- Maintain strong academic performance throughout matric
University Admission Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have provisional acceptance into an undergraduate degree programme
- Be accepted at a recognised South African university
Age Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be younger than 30 years old
Financial Requirements
Applicants must:
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show that they would be unable to pursue university studies without financial support
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
RELATED: Amazon Undergraduate Bursary Programme 2027 Opens for South African Tech Students
Documents Checklist
Before applying, ensure you have:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- June Grade 12 results
- Proof of provisional university acceptance
- Student number from the university
- Academic records (where applicable)
- Proof of household income
- Any additional supporting documents requested
Preparing these documents early can help avoid delays closer to the closing date.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Option 1: Apply Online
- Visit the SARB bursary application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Enter the promo code: SARBEXT2027
- Review your information carefully.
- Submit your application.
Option 2: Apply by Email
- Prepare all supporting documents.
- Combine documents into clearly labelled files.
- Send to:
sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za
- Include the promo code in your application.
Option 3: Apply by Post
Send applications to:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston
2021
Always keep copies of everything submitted.
Important Closing Date
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
Submitting your application early allows time to correct any missing documents or administrative issues before the deadline.
What Happens After You Apply?
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to:
- Interviews
- Assessments
- Verification processes
Successful applicants will:
- Receive official notification
- Sign a bursary agreement
- Complete any required onboarding procedures
The bursary agreement outlines the responsibilities of both the student and the South African Reserve Bank.
Martine Smith’s Expert Insight
Every year, strong candidates lose bursary opportunities because of avoidable mistakes. Here are four practical ways to strengthen your application:
1. Don’t Wait for Final Matric Results
Many learners delay applications unnecessarily. Apply as soon as you have your June results and provisional university acceptance.
2. Ensure Every Document Is Certified and Readable
Blurry scans and missing certifications remain one of the most common reasons applications are delayed or rejected.
3. Be Honest About Financial Circumstances
Selection panels carefully assess financial need. Provide accurate and complete household income information.
4. Demonstrate Career Direction
Students who clearly understand why they chose their qualification often stand out during interviews and assessments. Be prepared to explain how your studies connect to your future career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the SARB External Bursary?
South African learners who have provisional university acceptance, meet academic requirements, are younger than 30 years old, and can demonstrate financial need.
What average mark is required?
Applicants must achieve a minimum average of 70% in their June Grade 12 examinations.
Can students older than 30 apply?
No. Applicants must be younger than 30 years old.
Do I need university acceptance before applying?
Yes. Proof of provisional acceptance at a recognised South African university is required.
Is financial need considered?
Yes. Financial need is one of the key selection criteria.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Is the bursary only for banking degrees?
No. Various qualifications linked to economics, commerce, finance, technology, data science, law, and related disciplines may be considered.
Grow Your Career with MySetaPortal
Unlock real opportunities that help you move from learning to earning. MySETA Portal connects South African youth with trusted and up-to-date career development opportunities designed to build skills and open doors.
Whether you are a matriculant, unemployed graduate, or someone looking to upskill, this platform helps you stay ahead with opportunities that matter.
What you can access:
- Career Guides
- SETA Guides
- SETAs
- Bursaries
- Learnerships
- Internships
- TVET Opportunities
- Government Vacancies
- Courses
- Apprenticeships
- Graduate Programme
Final Thoughts
University funding opportunities of this calibre are highly competitive, but they can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education while creating pathways into some of South Africa’s most in-demand professions.
If you meet the requirements, start preparing your documents immediately, secure your university acceptance, and submit your application well before the closing date.
For bursary updates, application guidance, and opportunity tracking, learners can monitor opportunities through Mysetaportal.co.za.
Disclaimer
Mysetaportal.co.za is an independent information publisher that shares educational, employment, bursary, internship, and career-related opportunities. Mysetaportal.co.za is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the South African Reserve Bank, any government department, SETA, university, or funding organisation. Applicants should always verify information through official sources before submitting applications.
Martine Smith is the Founder and Managing Editor of MY SETA portal, he writes about SETA learnerships, internships, bursaries and youth employment opportunities in South Africa. His goal is to help young people access trusted career information and skills development programmes. Email: info@mysetaportal.co.za