In a country where the cost of education remains a barrier for many talented young people, bursary opportunities such as the Ninety One Bursary Programme 2026 provide a beacon of hope. Administered by Career Wise, this bursary is designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.
The programme, now open for the 2026 academic year, offers more than just financial support—it offers a gateway to a brighter future.
A Lifeline for Future Leaders
The Ninety One Changeblazer Bursary Programme is not just another financial aid initiative. It is tailored for students with a passion for their chosen fields, a drive to succeed, and a desire to uplift their communities. The programme aims to assist students who plan to begin their first year of university in 2026 and are currently in Grade 12 or completing Matric.
Open to South African citizens under the age of 21 by 2026, this bursary targets high-achieving individuals who come from households with a combined income of less than R600,000 per year. Applicants must have scored a minimum of 70% or Level 6 in English, Mathematics, or Sciences in Grade 11 to be considered.
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries will be awarded in areas that align with South Africa’s growing economic and developmental needs. These include:
- Business
- Finance
- Economics
- Education (Mathematics and Science)
- Engineering
- Healthcare (Dentistry, Medicine, and Veterinary Science excluded)
- Technology / Computer Science
- Psychology
By investing in these key areas, Ninety One aims to contribute to the development of a knowledgeable and skilled workforce that can tackle future challenges and drive innovation.
What the Bursary Covers
The financial support provided by the bursary is comprehensive. It includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Learning materials
- Accommodation and meals
But the bursary doesn’t stop at covering the basics. Selected students will also benefit from:
- Private tutoring
- Career guidance
- Resilience and mental health support
- Financial wellbeing sessions
Top-performing students may receive further assistance such as help obtaining a driver’s license and even a wardrobe for their first professional job.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 bursary, applicants must meet several criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under the age of 21 in 2026
- Be currently in Grade 12 or completing Matric
- Plan to study full-time in one of the eligible fields
- Intend to attend a recognized South African university
- Demonstrate financial need and provide supporting documentation
- Have excellent academic records and leadership potential
Applicants are also expected to satisfy the minimum university entry requirements for their intended field of study.
Application Process
Applying for the Ninety One Bursary Programme is a simple yet crucial process. Students are required to submit clear certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Grade 11 final results
- Latest Matric results
- Proof of 2026 university application or registration (on institutional letterhead)
- Proof of household income (parents’ payslips, SASSA/pension slips, or affidavits)
Importantly, applicants must include the promo code/reference “NINETY ONE” in their application. All applications must be completed and submitted online through the official Career Wise platform.
Deadline and Timelines
Prospective students should act swiftly, as late applications will not be considered. The bursary has a strict deadline, and only those who meet all requirements and submit complete documentation will be shortlisted.
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Education is a powerful tool for social mobility. For students from underprivileged backgrounds, the Ninety One Bursary is not just about covering costs—it’s about opening doors. With access to quality education, career guidance, and personal development support, these young individuals are empowered to not only build better futures for themselves but also to uplift their communities.
In a country striving for transformation and inclusivity, the Ninety One Bursary is a clear example of how public-private partnerships can foster talent and promote equality in higher education.
