Are you a high-achieving student dreaming of a career in STEM or the Green Economy? Nedbank has officially opened applications for its 2027 External Bursary Programme, offering vital financial support for your undergraduate or Honours degree. With the application window closing on 31 August 2026, now is the time to secure your funding for the upcoming academic year.
Opportunity Overview
- Organisation: Nedbank
- Programme: External Bursary Programme 2027
- Industry: Banking / Financial Services / STEM / Green Economy
- Location: South Africa
- Target Applicants: South African students (Matriculants and current University students)
- Key Benefits: Financial support for tuition and related academic costs.
Bursary Breakdown
The Nedbank External Bursary Programme is designed to empower academically gifted students who face financial barriers to education. By focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and Green Economy fields, Nedbank aims to cultivate the next generation of professionals capable of driving environmental sustainability and technological innovation in South Africa.
This is an excellent opportunity for students looking to enter sectors involving carbon emission reduction, energy efficiency, and environmental management.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the 2027 programme, applicants must meet these strict criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Academic Standing:
- Must have passed Mathematics (Maths Literacy is not accepted).
- Must have a minimum overall average of 65% for the 2026 academic year.
- Must have a minimum 65% average in subjects aligned to the chosen degree.
- Education: Currently in Matric, or already studying/accepted to study full-time at a public South African University or University of Technology.
- Financial Need: Must provide proof of financial need based on household income.
- Age: Applicants under 18 require parental/guardian consent.
Stipend / Salary Details
The value of the bursary is not disclosed publicly. Financial support is determined based on the successful applicant’s assessed financial need and the costs associated with their chosen course of study.
Required Documents Checklist
Ensure you have clear, certified copies of the following:
- ID document or card
- Grade 11 final results AND Matric mid-year results (if in Matric)
- Matric certificate AND latest mid-year results (if in 1st year of university)
- Latest tertiary results (if in 2nd or 3rd year of university)
- Proof of admission to a public SA university or University of Technology
- Completed Nedbank Financial Checks Affidavit (signed by applicant and parent/guardian)
- Latest 3 months’ bank statements
How to Apply Step-by-Step
Step 1: Review all eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify. Step 2: Prepare and certify all required documentation listed above. Step 3: Complete the Nedbank Financial Checks Affidavit. Step 4: Visit the official Nedbank Bursary Application Portal to submit your application online before the deadline.
Closing Date
31 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted. Apply as early as possible to avoid technical issues on the final day.
Related Opportunity
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who can apply? South African students pursuing STEM or Green Economy degrees at public universities.
- What qualifications are required? You must have passed Mathematics (not Maths Lit) with a minimum 65% average.
- Is the opportunity open to unemployed youth? Yes, the programme is aimed at students, including those who have completed Matric and are seeking entry into university.
- Is there a stipend? Financial support is provided; the exact amount depends on individual financial assessment.
- How long does the programme last? It covers the duration of the approved undergraduate or Honours degree.
- How do applicants apply? Applications are submitted exclusively via the official Nedbank online portal.
Why You Should Apply
Securing a Nedbank bursary does more than just pay fees. It provides a platform for academic excellence, reduces the stress of financial instability, and aligns you with one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions. It is a stepping stone into industries that are critical to the future of the global economy.
Career Pathways
Graduates of this programme are well-positioned for roles in:
- Engineering and Technology: Software development, data science, and civil engineering.
- Environmental Management: Sustainable finance, carbon auditing, and energy consultancy.
- Financial Services: Specialist banking roles that require strong analytical and mathematical skills.
Expert Guidance (Mbalizuke Nkosi)
“The secret to a successful bursary application is attention to detail,” says Mbalizuke Nkosi. “Ensure your certified documents are clear and up-to-date. Many students lose out because they submit blurry scans or forget the affidavit. Check your household income figures twice—honesty is key. Don’t wait for the last day of August; submitting early shows professionalism and ensures you have time to resolve any technical glitches.”
Disclaimer
Applicants are urged to use official Nedbank channels only. Be cautious of any third-party websites asking for payment to apply—this is a scam. Nedbank does not charge application fees. All decisions remain at the sole discretion of the organisation.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
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