The Nedbank Bursary Programme 2027 is now open for South African students studying STEM and green economy qualifications. Find out who qualifies, required documents, application deadline, and how to apply before 31 August 2026.

Nedbank Bursary Programme 2027 Opens Opportunities for South African Students in STEM and Green Economy Fields

For many talented South African students, the dream of studying at university is often limited by financial pressure. The good news is that the Nedbank bursary programme for 2027 is now open, giving academically strong students a chance to pursue higher education without the heavy burden of tuition and study costs.

The Nedbank External Bursary Programme is designed to support students who show academic potential and financial need. The programme focuses on helping young South Africans study in fields that are critical to the country’s future, especially science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and green economy-related qualifications.

Applications officially close on 31 August 2026, and students are encouraged to prepare their documents early to avoid missing out on this life-changing opportunity.

What Is the Nedbank Bursary Programme?

The Nedbank bursary programme provides financial assistance to students who want to study full-time at a South African public university or university of technology.

Unlike ordinary funding opportunities, this bursary is focused on developing future professionals in industries where South Africa urgently needs skilled graduates. The programme aims to invest in young people who can contribute to innovation, sustainability, technology advancement, and economic growth.

Students pursuing undergraduate or honours qualifications in approved fields may qualify for funding if they meet the academic and financial requirements.

Why the Focus on STEM and Green Economy Skills?

South Africa continues to face shortages in important technical and scientific careers. Industries linked to renewable energy, environmental sustainability, engineering, digital technology, and scientific research are growing rapidly.

The green economy is especially important because it promotes economic growth while protecting the environment. Careers in this sector focus on reducing pollution, improving energy efficiency, protecting natural resources, and building a more sustainable future.

By funding students in these areas, the Nedbank bursary programme is helping prepare the next generation of professionals who can solve real-world challenges facing the country.

Who Can Apply for the Nedbank Bursary?

You may qualify for the Nedbank bursary if you:

• Are a South African citizen
• Plan to study towards an undergraduate or honours qualification
• Intend to study within STEM or green economy-related fields
• Will study at a South African public university or university of technology
• Have proven financial need
• Achieved strong academic results

Students must also have obtained an average of at least 65% in the year they are applying.

One important requirement is that applicants who completed Grade 12 with Mathematics Literacy will unfortunately not qualify. Pure Mathematics is required for consideration.

Academic Requirements for the Nedbank Bursary

To improve your chances of being shortlisted, your marks should align with the qualification you want to study.

The programme considers:

• Grade 12 learners currently completing matric
• First-year university students
• Second-year and third-year university students
• Honours students in qualifying fields

Applicants must also secure admission to a recognised public university or university of technology in South Africa.

Documents Required for the Nedbank Bursary Application

Before applying, students should prepare all supporting documents carefully. Missing paperwork could result in immediate disqualification.

Basic documents required

Applicants will need:

• A certified copy of their South African ID
• Latest academic results
• Proof of admission or acceptance to a qualifying institution
• Financial check affidavit signed by parents or guardians
• Latest bank statements

Additional financial supporting documents

Parents or guardians may also need to provide:

• Certified ID copies
• Recent payslips
• Employment letters
• Proof of household income
• Pension slips or grant statements where applicable
• Tax documents for commission earners
• Municipal rates and taxes statements for informal traders

Having clear and updated documents can help speed up the review process.

What Happens After Applying?

Once applications close, the Nedbank Educational Trust reviews and screens all submissions according to the bursary criteria.

Shortlisted candidates may then be invited to:

• Complete psychometric assessments
• Participate in virtual interviews
• Undergo additional evaluations

The final decision remains entirely at the discretion of the Nedbank Educational Trust.

All applicants will receive feedback after the recruitment and selection process has been completed.

Why This Opportunity Matters for South African Youth

The rising cost of tertiary education continues to place enormous pressure on families across South Africa. Many academically gifted students struggle to continue studying because of tuition fees, accommodation costs, transport expenses, and learning materials.

Programmes like the Nedbank bursary create real opportunities for young people who are willing to work hard and build careers that can positively impact the country.

Beyond financial support, bursary programmes often give students confidence, motivation, and access to professional networks that can shape their future careers.

Tips to Strengthen Your Nedbank Bursary Application

Students applying for the Nedbank bursary should focus on presenting a complete and professional application.

Helpful tips include:

• Double-check all uploaded documents
• Ensure certified copies are clear and valid
• Use accurate contact details
• Submit the application before the deadline
• Maintain strong academic performance throughout the year

Incomplete applications are usually disqualified immediately, so attention to detail is extremely important.

Start Your Application

Applications for the Nedbank bursary programme for the 2027 academic year are officially open.

Students interested in applying should prepare all required documents early and submit their applications before 31 August 2026.

Apply here: https://nedbankex.fra1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eXneIZdSSqwmFCK

For assistance with the bursary process, applicants may contact the Nedbank Bursary Team via email at Unlockyourambition@nedbank.co.za.

Final Thoughts

The Nedbank bursary programme is more than just financial assistance. It is an investment in South Africa’s future leaders, innovators, engineers, scientists, and sustainability experts.

For students with ambition, academic potential, and financial need, this opportunity could become the first step toward building a successful future.

As competition for funding opportunities continues to grow, students are encouraged to apply early, stay organised, and submit the strongest application possible.