South African Reserve Bank
SARB Economics Bursary
Closes
30 September 2026
Value
Full tertiary funding
Level
Undergraduate (1st Year)
For
SA citizens under 30
Sector
Economics & Banking
Type
Bursary
About this bursary
The South African Reserve Bank provides funding for first-year students pursuing undergraduate degrees in economics. This opportunity is managed through the SARB Economic Research Department together with the SARB Academy, helping cover tertiary education expenses at accredited public universities across South Africa.
This financial award aims to assist promising school-leavers and current Matric students who face financial obstacles to higher education. By assisting talented youth, the central bank aims to strengthen economic expertise within the country.
Applicants must be younger than 30 years old when entering university in 2027. Selection involves academic criteria alongside clear evidence of financial hardship.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must hold South African citizenship and be under 30 years old.
- You must be entering your first year of full-time undergraduate degree studies in 2027.
- You need a minimum overall average mark of 70% for the 2026 academic year.
- You must achieve at least 70% for both English and Mathematics.
- You must have provisional or final acceptance at an accredited South African university.
- You must demonstrate financial need and come from a disadvantaged background.
You do not qualify if
- Postgraduate students or students past their first year of study do not qualify.
- Non-South African citizens are ineligible for this bursary.
- Applicants aged 30 or older will not be considered.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of your South African identity document
- Certified copy of Matric June results if currently in Grade 12
- Certified copy of final Matric certificate if school is already completed
- Proof of university acceptance for 2027 on an official institution letterhead
- A motivational essay of approximately 250 words supporting your application
Submit clear certified copies of all required documents.
How to apply
- 1Choose to apply online via the application portal or download the PDF application form.
- 2Fill in all personal and academic details, entering promotional code SARBERD27.
- 3Attach clear certified copies of all required supporting documents.
- 4Submit your completed application online, post it to the Bryanston POSTNET address, or email it to [email protected].
- 5Ensure your complete submission is received before 30 September 2026.
Apply using only one method to avoid duplicate submissions.