University acceptance is exciting, but without money it can feel like a dead‑end. The South African Reserve Bank is now offering a bursary that could fund your 2027 undergraduate studies, so act quickly before the deadline closes.
What the opportunity is
The SARB External Bursary Scheme 2027 provides full financial support for students who need help paying tuition, accommodation, books and other study costs. It targets high‑performing learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and aims to build South Africa’s future workforce.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Academic: Minimum average of 70% in the June Grade 12 exams.
- University acceptance: Provisional admission to an undergraduate degree at a South African university.
- Age: Under 30 years old at the time of application.
- Financial need: Must prove you cannot afford university without the bursary.
What you gain
- Full coverage of tuition fees.
- Allowance for accommodation, textbooks and learning materials.
- Opportunity to study fields that support the Reserve Bank’s work, such as economics, finance, accounting, statistics, mathematics, IT, data science, law, risk management, actuarial science, business management and related commerce degrees.
- Experience that can lead to a career in the public or private financial sector.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- June Grade 12 results
- Proof of provisional university acceptance (offer letter, student number)
- Proof of household income
- Any additional documents requested in the advert
- Choose one of the three application methods:
- Online: Submit your application through the official portal at https://sarb-bursary-manager.replit.app/. Remember to enter the promo code SARBEXT2027.
- Email: Send your completed form and scanned documents to sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za.
- Post: Mail your application to:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston 2021 - Ensure the application is submitted before 30 September 2026. Late files will not be considered.
- If shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview and, if successful, asked to sign a bursary agreement outlining your responsibilities.
Tips to improve your chances
- Maintain or improve your matric marks; higher scores make you more competitive.
- Double‑check that every required document is attached and properly certified.
- Submit your application early to avoid technical glitches close to the deadline.
- Provide clear, accurate evidence of financial need – include recent payslips or tax statements.
- Choose a degree that aligns with the Reserve Bank’s focus areas; emphasise how your study will contribute to the country’s economic development.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, start collecting your documents today. Verify the details on the official SARB bursary page, complete the application, and send it well before 30 September 2026. This bursary could remove the financial barrier to your university dream.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Edupstairs is not affiliated with the South African Reserve Bank. Applicants must confirm all requirements and deadlines on the official bursary advertisement and the Reserve Bank’s website before applying.
