Are you in Grade 12 thinking of a commerce degree, currently in your first to final year of a related degree, or taking a gap year? Do you have an outstanding academic record and come from a disadvantaged background? Then the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary is your chance to fund your future. Applications for the 2026 bursary are open right now—and close at 12 noon on Wednesday, 3 September 2025.
About Coronation Fund Managers
Founded in 1993, Coronation Fund Managers is one of South Africa’s largest asset management companies. Based in Cape Town, with international offices in London and Dublin, Coronation is trusted for managing billions in investments.
Their team is made up of passionate and skilled professionals. The company values teamwork, long-term thinking, and continuous learning. They believe in giving back by supporting bright young students who show great potential.
What the Bursary Offers
The Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary provides full financial support to deserving South African students. This includes:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation costs
- Study materials and textbooks
- Living allowance (if required)
- Mentorship and career guidance
- Vacation work opportunities at Coronation’s offices in Cape Town
In return, students are expected to work at Coronation after completing their degree for the same number of years they received the bursary. This is called a “work-back obligation.”
Requirements
To qualify for the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary 2026, you must meet the following:
Basic Requirements
- Be a South African citizen
- Studying or planning to study full-time in 2025
- Planning to complete a bachelor’s or honours degree in 2026 (NQF Level 7 only)
- Studying a commerce-related degree in:
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Information Technology
- Data Analysis
- Computer Science
- Software/Computer Engineering
Academic Performance
- Grade 12 learners: Minimum average of 75%, including Mathematics (not Math Literacy)
- University students: Minimum average of 70% for your most recent academic year
Other Requirements
- Applicants must be well-rounded, showing:
- Good character
- Leadership potential
- Community involvement
- Preference is given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds
Who Cannot Apply
You cannot apply if you are:
- Studying part-time or by distance learning (e.g., UNISA)
- At a TVET college, private college, or international university
- Studying for a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, master’s or PhD
- Already in paid employment while studying
- Unable to meet the full-time study requirement for 2025
Required Documents
Make sure your documents are certified within the last 3 months and that your application is complete. Incomplete or false applications will be rejected.
For All Applicants
- Certified South African ID
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages) explaining:
- Why you chose your field of study
- Your career goals
- Any missing documents
- CV (2 pages max)
- Reference letter (from a teacher, lecturer, or community leader—not a friend or relative)
- Parent/guardian ID or death certificate
- Proof of household income (SASSA slip, payslips, or police affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof if you received or did not receive NSFAS or other bursaries
If You Are in Grade 12 or on a Gap Year (after Matric 2024)
- Grade 11 final report and Grade 12 Term 2 report
- If available: Matric certificate and university acceptance letter for 2026
If You Are a Current University Student (in 2025)
- Matric certificate
- June 2025 academic transcripts
- Full academic record from university
- 2025 fee statement and proof of registration
- 2024 results (if applicable)
What Happens After You Apply
After the closing date:
- Applications are reviewed.
- Shortlisted candidates go through:
- Screening
- Interviews
- Psychometric tests
- If accepted, you’ll sign a bursary contract and join the Coronation support programme
This programme includes mentorship, possible vacation work, and preparation for a job at Coronation after graduation.
Work-Back Commitment
For every year you receive funding, you must work at Coronation for the same number of years. If you do not, you may need to repay the bursary with interest.
Important Notes
- You must apply online
- Submit all required documents
- Make sure your information is honest and correct
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
- If you haven’t heard back by December 2025, assume you were not successful
Recommended for you: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have
How to Apply
Apply online here: https://coronation.auraams.app
Closing date: Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 12 noon
After applying, you’ll receive a confirmation email
Tips for a Strong Application
- Write a strong motivation letter
- Get a good reference letter
- Double-check that all documents are certified and current
- Show your passion and future goals clearly
- Apply early—don’t wait for the deadline
Also check: Bursary and Scholarship: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Apply For?
The Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary 2026 is an incredible opportunity for South African students to gain full financial support for their studies in commerce, finance, IT, and related fields. This bursary offers more than just funding; it provides mentorship, vacation work experience, and a direct pathway to building a career with one of the leading asset management companies in South Africa.