South African Matric learners with strong academic results and financial need have an opportunity to secure funding for university studies in 2027. Applications are now open for the Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary Programme 2027, which offers comprehensive financial support, career development and student wellbeing services to help future leaders succeed at university and beyond.
Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary Programme 2027 Opens for South African Matric Learners
Ninety One is inviting eligible South African Matric learners to apply for its #Changeblazer Bursary Programme 2027.
The bursary supports learners who intend to study full-time at a recognised South African university in 2027. Beyond paying for university costs, the programme also focuses on developing confident, resilient graduates through mentoring, career guidance and wellbeing support.
Applications close on 31 August 2026.
Opportunity Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation / Employer | Ninety One |
| Programme Name | #Changeblazer Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Opportunity Type | University Bursary |
| Industry | Higher Education / Financial Services |
| Location | South Africa |
| Duration | Duration of the approved undergraduate qualification |
| Target Applicants | South African Matric learners entering first-year university in 2027 |
| Funding | Comprehensive bursary support |
Key Benefits
Successful applicants may receive:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials
- Private tutoring
- Career guidance
- Resilience training
- Mental health support
- Financial wellbeing sessions
Top-performing bursary recipients may also receive:
- Assistance with obtaining a driver’s licence
- Professional working wardrobe support for their first graduate job
Bursary Breakdown
The Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary Programme is designed to remove financial barriers while equipping students with the skills and support needed to thrive academically and professionally.
The programme combines financial assistance with personal development initiatives, helping students build resilience, leadership skills and career readiness throughout their university journey.
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries are available for students pursuing qualifications in:
- Business
- Finance
- Economics
- Education
- Engineering
- Healthcare (excluding Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary Science)
- Technology
- Computer Science
- Psychology
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be under 21 years old in 2027
- Be currently in Matric
- Intend studying full-time at a recognised South African university in 2027
- Be entering first-year university in 2027
- Study in one of the approved fields
- Preferably have at least a 70% average in English and Mathematics or Science in Grade 11
- Demonstrate financial need
- Have a combined household income below R600 000 per year
- Meet university admission requirements
- Have an excellent academic record
- Demonstrate leadership potential
Stipend / Bursary Details
The bursary may cover:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials
Additional development support includes:
- Private tutoring
- Career coaching
- Mental health support
- Financial wellbeing training
Monthly stipend: Not disclosed.
Required Documents Checklist
Applicants should prepare:
- Certified South African ID
- Certified Grade 11 final results
- Latest certified Matric results
- Proof of university application or registration for 2027
- Proof of household income
- Latest payslips (if applicable)
- Affidavit for unemployed parents or guardians (where applicable)
- SASSA or pension proof (if applicable)
Ensure all documents are clear, complete and uploaded correctly. Missing documents may result in disqualification.
How to Apply Step-by-Step
Step 1
Complete the online bursary application.
Step 2
Use the application reference code:
NINETY ONE
Step 3
Upload all required supporting documents.
Step 4
Submit your application before the closing date and monitor your email for communication from Career Wise regarding the selection process.
Selection Process
The bursary is administered by Career Wise.
The process includes:
- Application screening
- Document verification
- Candidate shortlisting
- Panel interviews between October and December 2026
- Provisional offers by December 2026
- Final bursary awards after the release of the 2026 Matric results in January 2027
Closing Date
Applications Close: 31 August 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all supporting documents are submitted before the deadline.
Related Opportunity
Youthscope
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
South African Matric learners under the age of 21 who plan to begin full-time university studies in 2027 and meet the eligibility requirements.
2. What qualifications are required?
Applicants must currently be in Matric and intend to study one of the approved undergraduate fields at a recognised South African university.
3. Is the opportunity open to unemployed youth?
The programme is aimed at Matric learners entering university. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need through the household income requirements.
4. Is there a stipend?
The bursary provides comprehensive study support, but a separate monthly stipend amount has not been disclosed.
5. How long does the bursary last?
The information provided states that the bursary supports approved university studies, but the exact funding duration has not been disclosed.
6. How do applicants apply?
Applications must be submitted online using the reference code NINETY ONE, together with all required supporting documents.
Why You Should Apply
The Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary offers much more than financial assistance.
Successful students benefit from:
- Reduced financial pressure
- Access to higher education
- Academic tutoring
- Career planning support
- Mental health and wellbeing services
- Leadership development
- Improved graduate employability
The additional support provided throughout university can help students build confidence and prepare for successful careers.
Career Pathways
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Finance
- Investment Management
- Banking
- Business Management
- Economics
- Engineering
- Education
- Information Technology
- Software Development
- Healthcare
- Psychology
- Corporate Leadership
- Public and Private Sector Organisations
The bursary also provides valuable professional development that can support long-term career growth.
Expert Guidance (Mbalizuke Nkosi)
Start preparing your application as early as possible by gathering certified copies of your academic results, identification documents and proof of household income. Ensure your university applications are submitted in time so you can include the required proof when applying for the bursary.
Carefully check that you meet the academic, age and financial eligibility requirements before submitting your application. Upload clear, legible documents, follow every instruction on the application form and avoid waiting until the final day, as incomplete or late submissions may not be considered.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only.
Applicants should confirm all eligibility criteria, supporting document requirements, deadlines and application procedures through the official Ninety One #Changeblazer Bursary Programme and Career Wise.
Beware of scams requesting payment for bursary applications. Legitimate bursary applications do not require payment, and all selection decisions remain solely with Ninety One and its appointed bursary administrator.
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.
For inquiries or support, please contact admin@youthscope.co.za.