The Absa Fellowship Programme for 2026 is more than just an academic scholarship – it’s a transformative journey designed to unlock the potential of South Africa’s brightest young minds. Rooted in Absa’s vision of financial inclusion, innovation, and sustainability, this initiative nurtures changemakers who will redefine leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact across Africa.
Every year, only 50 outstanding applicants are selected. These fellows are not just students; they are future leaders of industries, social enterprises, and public institutions. Through mentorship, structured support, and leadership development, they gain the tools to drive growth, advance sustainability, and turn bold possibilities into reality.
Who Can Apply?
The programme seeks young, emerging leaders who embody passion, purpose, and resilience. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Between 18 and 25 years old.
- Academic Record: A minimum pass mark of 65%. Applicants may submit June 2025 preliminary results or final matric results.
- Field of Study: Applicants must be enrolling as first-year undergraduate students at a public university in South Africa in 2026, pursuing degrees in:
- Commerce
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), including health sciences (excluding medical and veterinary studies)
- Creative Arts
- Digital/Data Design
Important: Applications must be submitted in the name of the student, not a parent or guardian.
The Application Process
The Absa Fellowship follows a structured four-phase process to ensure that the most deserving candidates are selected:
- Phase 1: Pre-Screening
Applicants are evaluated against the basic eligibility requirements. - Phase 2: Psychometric Assessment
Successful applicants from Phase 1 receive a voucher code via email (from Absafellowship@fundi.co.za) to complete an online psychometric test. - Phase 3: Shortlisting
Applicants are shortlisted based on their assessment performance. - Phase 4: Interviews
The final phase includes a personal interview where candidates showcase their vision, values, and potential as future leaders.
APPLY FOR THE ABSA FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Why Apply?
Becoming an Absa Fellow is about more than financial support. Selected students join a powerful network of changemakers and receive mentorship, leadership training, and opportunities to create lasting impact in their communities. The programme ensures that graduates leave not just with degrees, but with the confidence and capacity to transform industries and societies.
Applicants are strongly advised to check their email regularly (including spam and junk folders) to avoid missing critical updates.
Our Conclusion
The Absa Fellowship Programme for 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans who aspire to lead with purpose and innovation. If you have the drive to challenge the status quo, empower your community, and build a better Africa, this fellowship could be your first step toward greatness.
CLOSING DATE: 10 SEPTEMBER 2025
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