The ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 is one of South Africa’s most respected and competitive bursary schemes, created to support academically strong students who demonstrate leadership potential and financial need. Through this programme, Absa Group Limited invests in developing future professionals who will play a meaningful role in South Africa’s economic growth, transformation, and sustainability.
Designed for students pursuing qualifications aligned with banking, financial services, technology, and data-driven careers, the ABSA Bursary goes beyond financial assistance. It provides structured development, professional exposure, and potential access to graduate opportunities within the ABSA ecosystem.
What Is the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026?
The ABSA Bursary Programme is a merit- and need-based funding initiative offered by Absa Group Limited, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. The bursary supports full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students registered at recognised public universities in South Africa.
In addition to covering study-related costs, the programme focuses on long-term talent development by exposing students to the world of banking, finance, and technology through mentorship, workplace readiness initiatives, and possible graduate employment pathways.
This approach reflects ABSA’s commitment to skills development, inclusion, and building future leaders in critical sectors of the economy.
Why the ABSA Bursary Programme Matters
The cost of higher education in South Africa continues to rise, placing immense pressure on talented students from financially constrained backgrounds. The ABSA Bursary Programme helps address this challenge by:
- Enabling access to quality higher education
- Supporting scarce and critical skills development
- Promoting workplace readiness and employability
- Contributing to economic growth and transformation
For students interested in finance, analytics, technology, and quantitative fields, the bursary offers both financial security and career alignment.
Fields Covered by the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026
ABSA Bursary Approved Fields of Study
The ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 typically supports qualifications aligned with ABSA’s current and future skills needs. Funded fields may include, but are not limited to:
- Accounting (BCom Accounting, CA-stream)
- Financial Management
- Economics
- Business Science
- Actuarial Science
- Statistics
- Data Science and Analytics
- Information Technology (IT)
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Risk Management
- Mathematics
- Engineering (selected disciplines)
Important: The list of supported fields may change annually based on strategic requirements. Applicants should always confirm eligible fields on the official application platform.
Who Qualifies for the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026?
ABSA Bursary Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must generally:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be registered or planning to register for full-time study at a recognised South African public university
- Be studying or intending to study in an approved field
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show genuine financial need
- Have a good academic and disciplinary record
Academic Requirements
Competitive applicants typically demonstrate:
Related Opportunities 2026
- Strong Grade 12 results (for first-year applicants)
- Consistently good university academic transcripts (for continuing students)
- The ability to perform well in demanding academic environments
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection, as the programme is highly competitive.
What Does the ABSA Bursary Cover?
ABSA Bursary Benefits
The ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 is considered a comprehensive bursary, which may cover:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- University accommodation or a residence allowance
- Meals or a living allowance
- Laptop or technology allowance (where applicable)
Beyond financial support, bursary recipients may also benefit from:
- Structured mentorship and academic support
- Vacation work opportunities
- Exposure to ABSA’s professional environment
- Access to graduate development pathways
How to Apply for the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026
ABSA Bursary Application Process
Applications are submitted online and typically follow these steps:
Step 1: Online Registration
Create an account on the official ABSA bursary application platform.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate personal, academic, and financial information.
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Applicants are usually required to upload certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Proof of household income
- University acceptance letter (if available)
Step 4: Submit Before the Closing Date
Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Assessment and Shortlisting
Applications are reviewed based on academic merit, financial need, and alignment with ABSA’s skills priorities.
Step 6: Interviews and Final Selection
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further assessments.
Official application portal:
https://bursaries.feenix.org/absa/apply-now/
This is the official Feenix bursary platform used to process ABSA-related bursary and CSI trust applications.
ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 Closing Date
The confirmed closing date for the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 is:
30 August 2026
All applications and supporting documents must be submitted before this date. Late or incomplete submissions are not accepted.
Tips to Improve Your ABSA Bursary Application
To strengthen your application:
- Maintain strong academic performance
- Ensure documents are clear, certified, and up to date
- Be honest and consistent in financial disclosures
- Highlight leadership roles, achievements, or community involvement
- Follow all instructions on the application portal carefully
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can first-year students apply for the ABSA Bursary?
Yes. Matriculants with strong results who have been accepted into an approved programme may apply.
Does the ABSA bursary include a work-back obligation?
Some bursaries may include a work-back or service requirement, depending on funding terms.
Can I apply if I already receive NSFAS?
Applicants must disclose all funding. Dual funding policies depend on ABSA’s bursary conditions for that year.
Is the ABSA Bursary renewable?
Renewal is usually subject to continued academic performance and meeting bursary conditions.
Final Thoughts on the ABSA Bursary Programme 2026
The ABSA Bursary Programme 2026 offers more than financial support—it provides academically strong and financially deserving students with access to education, professional development, and future career opportunities. With its focus on critical skills and long-term impact, it remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after bursary programmes.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, rely only on official sources, and submit complete, well-prepared applications to maximise their chances of success.
