If you’re a South African learner determined to pursue quality education but finding the cost a barrier, the Investec Bursary could change your story. This full-cost bursary supports both high school and tertiary students, especially those from township or rural schools who demonstrate strong academic potential and financial need.
As you read this guide, you’ll discover what a bursary is, eligibility requirements, the online application process, closing dates, benefits, and tips to improve your chances.
Table of Contents
Why It’s Worth Applying
- The Investec Bursary offers full-cost support for eligible students — covering tuition, books, campus accommodation (for tertiary), and a pathway into the workplace.
- It’s backed by Investec’s commitment to education as a means of empowerment and building future leaders in South Africa.
- For high-school level, the bursary offers access to top-performing schools and mentorship — a chance many township learners don’t get.
- Although competition is strong, meeting the requirements and preparing early can give you a strong shot.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
Nelson Mandela
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
High School Level (Grades 10-12)
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Learner entering Grade 10, 11, or 12 in 2026, from a township/rural school, showing strong aptitude in key subjects.
- Minimum academic results: at least 70% in Maths (not Maths Literacy), 70% in English, and a strong overall record in other subjects.
- Financial need must be demonstrated.
- Student must stay at their current school (no transfers).
Tertiary Level (Undergraduate First Year)
- South African citizen.
- Grade 12 completed or in the first year of full-time study at a public university.
- Minimum academic criteria: e.g., 70% Maths, 70% English FAL (or 65% English HL), and at least 60% in other subjects.
- Intended study for a full-time undergraduate degree in eligible fields (see next section).
What Fields & Institutions Are Eligible (“What does Investec bursary cover?”)
- Eligible fields for the tertiary bursary include: Commerce (Accounting, Business Economics, Investments, Finance), BSc Computer Science, BSc Information Technology, Business Science, Engineering, Commercial LLB, and MBChB.
- The high-school bursary covers grades 10-12 at top schools and provides mentoring, but it does not fund private high schools or international study.
- The bursary supports study at public recognised universities in South Africa — not private institutions.
How to Apply for the Investec Bursary 2026 (Application Process)
- Applications open on 1 May each year and close on 30 September for the 2026 intake. Late entries are not accepted.
- Apply online via StudyTrust’s platform. Look for the “Investec Bursary Programme” application form.
Documents needed:
- Certified copy of South African ID or birth certificate.
- Latest school reports or matric certificate.
- Proof of household income (payslips, tax returns, affidavits) or parental death/divorce documents if applicable.
- For university students: transcripts or first-semester results.
Fill the form carefully, attach all documentation, and submit well before the closing date.
Selection Criteria – How Competitive is the Investec Bursary?
The bursary is competitive — meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee an award.
- Key selection drivers: academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, suitability of study path, and alignment with Investec’s mentorship and development goals.
- For tertiary bursary: Around 50-55 students are shortlisted each year, and up to 30 bursaries are awarded for certain programmes.
- For high-school bursary: Schools must meet certain performance criteria (e.g., 90% matric pass rate, high percentages in Pure Maths), and the applicant must stay at the current school.
What the Bursary Covers (Allowance & Benefits)
- For tertiary bursary: “full bursary per year towards study-related expenses” including tuition, accommodation where needed, books, and mentoring support.
- For high school bursary: Funding through the remaining high-school years, mentoring by Investec staff, extra lessons in Maths/English in some partner programmes.
While an explicit “monthly allowance” is seldom publicly detailed, full cost-of-study funding implies that major direct expenses are covered — you should check partner documentation for exact figures.
Important: Changing your degree programme after award may lead to cancellation.
Key Dates & Deadlines
- Closing date for 2026 intake: 30 September 2025 (for both high-school and tertiary bursary) unless otherwise stated.
- Application opening: 1 May each year.
- Shortlist period for high school bursary: December 2025 to March 2026.
Tip: Mark your calendar! Documents take time, and many applicants miss deadlines.
How to Strengthen Your Application
- Maintain or improve your current grades, especially in Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) and English — key subject thresholds are repeatedly cited.
- Gain leadership experience or participate in school/community activities — this helps to stand out.
- Gather certified proof of your household’s financial situation early: payslips, affidavits, and bank statements.
- Understand your intended field of study and ensure it aligns with Investec’s supported disciplines (commerce, IT, engineering, etc.).
- Write your motivation/personal statement clearly: why you need the bursary, your future goals, and how you will contribute back.
- Submit a complete application well ahead of the deadline — incomplete or late submissions will typically be rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you qualify for the Investec bursary?
By meeting eligibility requirements: SA citizenship, strong grades (Maths & English), financial need, eligible study choice, and applying through StudyTrust.
Can foreigners get Investec bursaries in South Africa?
No — only South African citizens are eligible for the standard bursary programmes.
What does the Investec bursary cover?
Typically, the full cost of study (tuition, accommodation, books) and mentoring support — exact terms may vary per programme.
When does the Investec bursary open, and what is the closing date?
Opens each year around 1 May, closes 30 September for the next year’s intake (e.g., 2026).
Is it easy to get?
While it’s described as “easy to apply online,” competition is strong and only a limited number receive the bursary each year. But if you prepare early and meet the criteria, you’re giving yourself a good chance.
Final Take
The Investec Bursary is a powerful opportunity for South African learners with strong academic potential and financial need. Whether you’re in high school or beginning your undergraduate journey, this bursary can unlock doors.
Your first step: check eligibility, gather your documents now, pick your study direction wisely, then hit the “Apply” button before 30 September. If you put in the effort, this could be the scholarship that changes everything.
Varsha Asrani is a lecturer and education writer with experience as Visiting Faculty at AUPP and ATMC College, and as a Lecturer with TalentEdge and UpGrad. She is the Founder of the Asrani Institute of Education and Counselling. Varsha specializes in scholarships, e-learning, and career guidance for African students and professionals, and regularly visits Africa to gather first-hand insights that shape her research and articles.
