Investec Bursary 2026: Requirements, Benefits & How to Apply

Last updated on March 17, 2026

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.

The bursary focuses on building future professionals in key economic sectors, not just funding education. 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.

Quick Glance: Investec Bursary

• Full-cost bursary for South African students at high school (Grades 10–12) and undergraduate level
• Covers tuition, accommodation, books, and mentorship support
• Strong focus on Mathematics, English, and fields like finance, engineering, and IT
• Highly competitive, with selection based on academics, leadership, and financial need
• Applications usually open in May and close in September each year

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

Eligibility

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). 

High School vs Tertiary Bursary (Key Difference)

The Investec Bursary supports both high school learners and university students, but the structure is different.

• The high school bursary focuses on Grades 10 to 12 and includes mentorship and academic support while the learner remains at their current school.
• The tertiary bursary supports full-time undergraduate study at a public university and includes broader financial coverage such as accommodation and study costs.

Understanding this difference helps applicants apply to the correct programme.

Who Should Apply for the Investec Bursary?

The Investec Bursary is best suited for students who are strong in Mathematics and English and have a clear academic direction.

It is particularly suitable for learners who are interested in fields such as finance, engineering, technology, or commerce, as these are the main areas supported by the programme.

Students who show consistency in their results, discipline in their studies, and a willingness to take guidance from mentors often perform better in the selection process.

Who Should NOT Apply?

The Investec Bursary may not be suitable for students who do not meet the subject requirements, especially those without strong Mathematics results.

It is also not ideal for applicants who are unsure about their field of study or who are planning to pursue courses outside the supported disciplines.

Students applying without proper documentation or with incomplete applications are usually filtered out early in the process.

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.

Before applying, you may want to learn how to write a motivational letter that stands out.

How Competitive is the Investec Bursary?

The bursary is competitive — meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee an award. Many applicants meet the minimum requirements, but only a small percentage are selected. This is because Investec looks beyond marks and evaluates the overall profile, including leadership, discipline, and alignment with the chosen field of study.

• 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 2027 intake: Expected around 30 September 2026 (for both high-school and tertiary bursary), unless officially updated.
• Application opening: Usually from 1 May each year.
• Shortlist period for high school bursary: Typically between December 2026 and March 2027.

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. 

There are many scholarship programmes available across the continent. This guide to African student scholarships explains the major funding routes students should know before applying.

What Makes You Stand Out?

Students who stand out usually have strong academic performance combined with clear goals.

Taking part in school activities, showing leadership in small ways, and maintaining consistency over time often make a bigger difference than one-time achievements.

A well-prepared application with complete documents and a clear motivation can significantly improve your chances.

What Should You Do Before Applying?

Before applying, make sure your academic results meet the required thresholds, especially in Mathematics and English.

It is also important to prepare your documents early, including proof of income and academic records.

Applicants should clearly decide their field of study and ensure it aligns with Investec’s supported programmes.Applying early and 

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

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.