The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) offers an exciting opportunity for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue undergraduate studies through its External Bursary Scheme. This initiative aims to address the pressing skills shortage in South Africa, offering support to students with academic potential and financial need.
The SARB, as the central banking institution of South Africa, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the economic stability of the country, making this bursary scheme an ideal opportunity for students keen to contribute to the nation’s financial well-being.
About the South African Reserve Bank
The South African Reserve Bank is not just a financial institution, it is a key player in the country’s economic and financial system. Its functions are crucial in maintaining the overall stability of South Africa’s economy. The SARB is responsible for regulating the South African financial sector, maintaining price stability, controlling interest rates, managing the distribution of banknotes and coins, and ensuring the security and stability of the banking system.
Additionally, the SARB oversees the implementation of financial policies that affect the economy’s growth and sustainability. This bursary programme, which funds studies relevant to these operations, encourages students to contribute to the mission of the SARB and the greater financial landscape of the country.
To learn more about the SARB, you can visit their official website here.
Purpose of the SARB External Bursary Scheme
The SARB External Bursary Scheme was created to bridge the significant skills gap in South Africa, particularly in the fields that directly contribute to the country’s financial system. The bursary supports students from underprivileged backgrounds who have demonstrated strong academic potential. It allows them to pursue undergraduate studies in fields relevant to the work of the SARB and its wide-ranging functions.
The South African Reserve Bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is at the heart of this bursary initiative. By offering financial aid, the SARB empowers students from disadvantaged communities to access higher education, thereby contributing to the growth of South Africa’s economy in the long term.
Bursary Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the SARB External Bursary Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Provisional Acceptance into a University: Applicants must have received provisional acceptance into an undergraduate degree programme at a South African university.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants should have achieved a minimum of 70% in their June Grade 12/Matric examinations. The final awarding of the bursary will be contingent on the applicant’s final results.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be younger than 30 years of age.
- Financial Need: The bursary is aimed at students who are unable to afford to attend university without financial assistance.
These criteria are designed to ensure that the bursary supports students who have both the academic potential and financial need to benefit from higher education opportunities.
How to Apply for the SARB External Bursary
Students interested in applying for the SARB External Bursary must follow the application procedure carefully. Here are the steps to take:
- Complete the Application Form: Applications for the SARB External Bursary can be submitted via post, email, or online application form. Ensure all necessary documents are included to avoid delays.
- Required Documents: The following documents must be submitted along with the application:
- Proof of provisional acceptance into a recognised South African university (including a student number).
- Latest examination results (preferably June Grade 12/Matric results).
- Any other supporting documents as per the bursary’s application guidelines.
- Use the Promo Code: When submitting your application, remember to include the promotional code SARB2026 to ensure your application is processed.
- Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:
- Post:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston, 2021 - Email: Send your application to sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za.
- Online: You can also apply online through the SARB official bursary portal.
- Post:
Important Dates
The closing date for applications for the SARB External Bursary Scheme is Tuesday, 30 September 2025. Any late applications will not be considered, so it is crucial to submit all required documents by this deadline.
Bursary Agreement and Interview Process
Once selected for the bursary, applicants will be required to attend an interview to discuss their qualifications, future aspirations, and how they align with the objectives of the SARB. Successful applicants will then be required to sign a bursary agreement with the SARB, which outlines the terms and conditions of the bursary.
This agreement may include expectations related to academic performance, future career commitments, and possible future employment with the SARB, depending on the nature of the agreement.
Check also: Africa Cosmos Education Trust Bursary Programme 2025
The South African Reserve Bank’s External Bursary Scheme is an excellent opportunity for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their studies in areas related to the financial sector. Through this initiative, the SARB continues to play a vital role in addressing South Africa’s skills shortage while empowering individuals to contribute to the country’s financial stability.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about a career in the financial or economic sectors are encouraged to apply for this life-changing opportunity.