Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary 2027: Commerce Students, Closes 31 August

The Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary is now open for applications for the 2027 academic year. The bursary supports talented South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds who plan to study full-time towards a commerce-related degree. Applications close on Monday, 31 August 2026 at 12:00 midday.

The programme offers financial support, mentorship, and the opportunity to join one of South Africa’s leading asset management companies after graduation through a work-back commitment.

What is the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary?

The Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary is offered by Coronation Fund Managers, an independent asset management company founded in 1993.

The bursary aims to support academically strong and well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership, character, and a commitment to making a positive impact. In return, successful recipients must fulfil a work-back obligation if offered employment after completing their studies.

Funding is awarded for one academic year at a time. Therefore, students must continue meeting the required academic and engagement standards for renewal.

About Coronation Fund Managers

Coronation Fund Managers is one of South Africa’s largest independent asset managers. The company manages third-party investments and operates from its headquarters in Cape Town, with additional offices in London and Dublin.

Coronation focuses on long-term investing and values teamwork, continuous learning, and professional development.

Who Can Apply for the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary?

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Study full-time during the 2027 academic year.
• Pursue an undergraduate commerce-related qualification.
• Be enrolled at a DHET and CHE registered public university.
• Study towards an NQF Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or Honours qualification.
• Demonstrate leadership potential, strong character, and community involvement.

Preference will be given to students studying:

• Commerce
• Finance
• Data Analysis
• Information Technology
• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Computer Engineering

The bursary also accepts:

• Current Grade 12 learners.
• Students taking a gap year after matric in 2025.
• Current undergraduate students enrolled in 2026.

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Academic Requirements

Applicants must satisfy the following academic criteria:

Grade 12 Learners

Applicants must have:

• A Bachelor’s Pass.
• A minimum overall average of 75%.
• Mathematics as a subject (Mathematical Literacy does not qualify).

Current University Students

Applicants must have:

• An academic average of at least 70%.
• Results covering their latest academic years, including 2025 and 2026 where applicable.

Preference may also be given to applicants who:

• Are in their second year or higher.
• Are expected to complete their qualification within the minimum prescribed period.
• Meet Coronation’s Employment Equity objectives.

Who Does Not Qualify?

The bursary does not accept applications from students studying:

• Higher Certificates
• Diplomas
• Advanced Diplomas
• N4, N5 or N6 qualifications
• Master’s degrees
• Doctoral degrees

Students enrolled at the following institutions also do not qualify:

• TVET colleges
• Community colleges
• Private colleges
• Business schools
• International universities
• Distance learning institutions, including UNISA

What Does the Bursary Cover?

The final bursary value will only be confirmed in the official award letter issued to successful applicants.

Funding may include study-related expenses approved by the sponsor. However, the exact benefits depend on the bursary agreement and available funding.

The bursary is renewable each year based on:

• Academic performance.
• Student engagement.
• Available sponsor funding.

Important Bursary Conditions

Applicants should carefully read the bursary conditions before applying.

These include:

• A work-back obligation for every funded year if Coronation offers employment.
• Failure to honour the agreement may require repayment of bursary funds plus interest.
• Students must study full-time throughout the funding period.
• Undisclosed employment or false information may result in immediate cancellation.
• Awards are made according to Coronation’s Employment Equity Plan.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare certified documents that are less than three months old.

Common documents include:

• South African ID.
• Comprehensive CV.
• Personal motivation statement.
• Letter of recommendation.
• Parent or guardian identification.
• Proof of household income.
• NSFAS funding confirmation or affidavit.
• Other bursary funding confirmation or affidavit.

Additional documents depend on whether you are:

• A Grade 12 learner.
• A current university student.
• A gap-year student.

Applicants may also need to submit academic transcripts, proof of registration, university fee statements, and acceptance letters where applicable.

Shortlisted applicants may later be asked to provide:

• Accommodation quotations.
• Book quotations.
• University fee clearance documentation.

Applicants younger than 18 must also submit a signed parental consent form.

How to Apply for the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary

Before applying:

• Read all instructions carefully.
• Complete every section of the application form.
• Upload every required supporting document.
• Ensure all information is accurate.

Incomplete applications or applications containing false information will not be considered.

Applicants will receive an email confirming receipt of their application.

If you do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

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Closing Date

The closing date for the Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary is:

Monday, 31 August 2026 at 12:00 midday.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions