Each year, the Standard Bank Group renews its commitment to nurturing top-tier South African talent through its flagship bursary programme. The 2026 cycle, managed via StudyTrust, offers a transformative opportunity for deserving students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in high‑demand fields—from Commerce and Engineering to Data Science and Actuarial studies
Who Is Eligible?
- South African citizens enrolled full-time in accredited public universities
- Undergraduates aiming for 2nd, 3rd or final year studies, and postgraduates up to Master’s level
- Minimum academic average of 65%, based on your latest results
- Fields supported include Accounting, Engineering, Economics, IT, Statistics, Analytics, Finance, Science, and emerging areas like Behavioural Economics
- Selection factors: academic merit plus demonstrated financial need; shortlisted applicants undergo psychometric assessments and interviews
What the Bursary Covers
The programme is a comprehensive full-cost bursary, alleviating financial obstacles so you can focus entirely on your studies:
- Tuition fees
- Textbooks and learning materials
- Accommodation (residence or capped private housing)
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Meals (residence or self-catering)
- Laptop
- Transport subsidy for travel home 4 times a year
- Medical aid
- Mentoring and psychological support
This holistic investment reflects Standard Bank’s commitment not just to education but to the wellbeing and future of bursary holders.
Obligation & Opportunity
In return, recipients are usually expected to work for Standard Bank if they’re offered employment post-graduation—an invaluable foot in the door at one of Africa’s leading banks. This creates a mutually beneficial pathway: candidates gain industry experience, and the bank cultivates future professionals aligned with its culture and values.
Early preparation is key. Applications are submitted via StudyTrust’s online portal. Required documents include certified ID, academic transcripts (Matric and tertiary, where applicable), and proof of household income
APPLY FOR THE STANDARD BANK BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE
Tips for a Standout Application
- Get your grades right – aim well above the 65% minimum.
- Apply early – avoid last-minute errors.
- Gather quality documents – issue-certified, up-to-date proofs.
- Craft a compelling story – highlight academic resilience, community impact, and clear career goals.
- Be prepared for assessments – psychometric tests and interviews are part of the process.
Why It Matters
Standard Bank’s bursary isn’t just financial aid—it’s a strategic investment in Africa’s future. By supporting studies in critical and emerging fields, the bank is building a pipeline of talent ready to lead innovation in finance, tech, engineering, science, and beyond. The comprehensive support offered positions recipients for success, academically and professionally, within an ecosystem dedicated to sustainable growth.
Apply and strengthen your chance to secure a bursary that does more than pay bills—it opens doors to reviews, roundtables, and recruitment-ready roles. For detail-rich guidance, head to StudyTrust and Standard Bank’s bursary portal today.
CLOSING DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
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