The South African Reserve Bank (SARB), in collaboration with the SARB Academy, invites students to apply for the Economics Bursary Programme 2026 for undergraduate studies.

Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Study Location: South Africa

Fields Covered by the Bursary

Bursaries will be awarded for undergraduate studies in:

• Economics
• Economics and Econometrics
• Economics and Mathematical Statistics
• Economic Science

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must be under 30 years old.
• Must have completed Matric or be currently in Matric.
• Must plan to study full-time towards an undergraduate Economics-related degree in 2026.
• Must be entering 1st year of study in 2026.
• Must have accepted or provisionally accepted admission at an accredited South African university.
• Must have a minimum overall average of 70% for the 2025 academic year.
• Must have at least 70% for both English and Mathematics.
• Must be financially needy and unable to afford university without a bursary.
• Must be from a disadvantaged background.

Selection Process

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 1 month after the closing date.
• Candidates may undergo testing and attend an interview.
• Successful applicants will sign an agreement with the SARB.

How to Apply

You can apply in either of the following ways:

Option 1: Apply online via the TTI Bursary platform

Option 2: Download and complete the SARB Economics Bursary Application 2026 Form (.pdf) and submit it with supporting documents via:

• Email: [email protected]
• Post: Dimpho Nkoana, POSTNET Suite 101, Private Bag X153, Bryanston, 2021

Promotional Code: SARBERD26

Required Supporting Documents

Submit certified copies of the following (not older than 3 months):

• ID document.
• Matric June results (if currently in Matric).
• Matric final results/certificate (if completed Matric).
• Proof of acceptance at a university for 2026 (on university letterhead).
• Motivational essay (±250 words).