If you’re a student looking for a bursary opportunity that will not only assist you financially but also pave the way for a successful career in South Africa, the Standard Bank Group Bursary is a fantastic choice. The bursary programme is designed to promote academic excellence and foster the development of future African leaders across multiple disciplines.
About the Standard Bank Group Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme is aimed at supporting talented students from various academic fields. The initiative focuses on students pursuing studies in disciplines that are crucial to Africa’s development and future prosperity. These include Agriculture, Commerce, Engineering, Mathematics, Science (such as Actuarial Science, Analytics, Business, Computer Science, Data Science, and Information Science), Statistics, Technology (Financial and Information Technology), and Behavioural Economics (Economics, Behavioural Finance, Sociology, Psychology, and Neuroscience).
The bursary is designed not only to alleviate the financial burden of students but also to prepare them for careers that could potentially lead them to employment with Standard Bank once they graduate. If a successful bursary recipient receives an offer of employment from the Bank, they are expected to work for the Bank, allowing them to gain invaluable experience and contribute to the financial sector in South Africa.
Bursary Categories
1. Undergraduate Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Undergraduate Bursary is available to students who are on track to successfully complete their first year of studies and need funding for their second year and beyond. This bursary is specifically for full-time students studying towards a degree in one of the selected fields.
Minimum Selection Criteria:
- The applicant must have achieved an average of 65% or above in the most recent examinations.
- The applicant must be registered for full-time undergraduate studies.
- The applicant will be required to undergo a formal assessment process, which includes psychometric evaluation and an interview.
- Financial need is a key consideration in the selection process.
2. Postgraduate Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Postgraduate Bursary offers full-cost bursaries for students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies. The bursary is open to financially deserving students who have achieved academic excellence in their undergraduate studies.
Minimum Selection Criteria:
- The applicant must have achieved an average of 65% or above in their most recent academic results.
- The applicant must be registered for full-time postgraduate studies at a public South African institution.
- A psychometric evaluation and interview are part of the formal assessment process.
- Financial need is considered in the selection process.
Bursary Benefits
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Fund is a full-cost bursary that covers a range of study-related costs, including:
- University Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees.
- Accommodation: Funding for university residence or private accommodation (subject to certain limits).
- Meals: Provided by the university or a self-catering option.
- Books and Study Materials: Coverage for the necessary study materials, including textbooks.
- Laptop: A laptop to aid in academic success.
- Monthly Stipend: A stipend to help with living expenses.
- Transport: Four return trips per year between home and campus at the cost of a bus ticket.
This comprehensive package ensures that successful candidates can focus fully on their studies without the distraction of financial stress.
Selection Criteria
To be eligible for the Standard Bank Group Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A minimum average of 65% in the most recent academic results.
- Full-time registration for either undergraduate or postgraduate studies in the specified fields.
- Evidence of financial need will be taken into consideration.
- A well-rounded applicant with strong academic performance and leadership potential is preferred.
The bursary is available for students pursuing their second, third, or final year of undergraduate studies, as well as those undertaking postgraduate studies up to the Master’s level.
How to Apply for the Standard Bank Group Bursary
Applying for the Standard Bank Group Bursary is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail and timely submission. The application process is hosted on StudyTrust’s online application platform, and applicants must submit their applications before the closing date.
Required Documents for Application:
To apply for the bursary, applicants must upload the following documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Proof of all academic results to date (Grade 12 certificate and full tertiary academic record)
- Proof of combined household income to demonstrate financial need
Application Timeline:
- Application Season: 1 May to 30 September.
- Applicants should ensure they complete the online application and upload all required documents before the deadline.
The Application Process:
- Visit the StudyTrust online platform.
- Complete the application form and upload the necessary supporting documents.
- Be prepared for a formal assessment process, which may include psychometric tests and interviews.
Once the application is submitted, the selection process begins, and successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance into the programme.
Read more: Bursaries Closing in May 2025 – South Africa
Closing Date for Applications
The closing date for the Standard Bank Group Bursary applications is 30 September. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to ensure that all documents are in order.
The Standard Bank Group Bursary is more than just a financial lifeline for students; it is an investment in the future of Africa. By supporting students from diverse academic backgrounds, the bank is nurturing the next generation of leaders who will shape the continent’s economic landscape. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about your chosen field, don’t miss out on this opportunity to further your studies and career.
Ensure you apply before the deadline of 30 September to be considered for this prestigious bursary. Take the first step towards a brighter future with the Standard Bank Group Bursary!
