South African students who have strong academic records and want to study at a public university often face one major challenge: the cost of higher education.
Many talented learners are unable to register at universities because they do not have enough money to pay for tuition, accommodation, books, and other basic needs.
To help students from disadvantaged backgrounds, Nedbank offers the Nedbank Bursary Programme.
This programme is available for the 2026 academic year and is aimed at students who want to study full-time in specific fields that are important for the development of the country.
This article explains how the Nedbank Bursary Programme 2026 works, who can apply, what it covers, and how to apply for it.
The aim is to make sure every South African learner understands how this bursary can help them attend university without financial stress.
What is the Nedbank Bursary Programme 2026?
The Nedbank Bursary Programme is a financial aid programme offered by Nedbank to help South African students who have done well in school and want to study at a public university in South Africa.
It is not a loan, which means students do not have to pay the money back after they graduate.
The bursary is for full-time undergraduate studies only.
Nedbank invests in this programme to help build the skills that the country needs, such as mathematics, accounting, computer science, and engineering.
The bursary is only awarded to students who meet strict academic and financial requirements.
Who qualifies for the Nedbank Bursary?
To qualify for the Nedbank Bursary Programme 2026, a student must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have a valid South African identity document (ID).
- Be currently in Grade 12 or already studying at a recognised public university.
- Have achieved strong academic results, especially in subjects related to their chosen field of study.
- Plan to study full-time at a South African public university in 2026.
- Come from a household that cannot afford to pay for university fees.
Students must also choose a course that fits within Nedbank’s approved fields of study.
What does the Nedbank Bursary cover?
The Nedbank Bursary covers more than just tuition fees. It provides full financial support for the student’s academic journey. The bursary includes:
- Tuition Fees: Full payment of study fees at a public university.
- Textbooks and Study Material: Support for academic materials needed for each semester.
- Accommodation: Coverage for student housing if the student stays in a university-approved residence.
- Meals: A meal allowance to help the student with daily food expenses.
- Transport and Living Costs: In some cases, extra allowances may be offered to cover these expenses.
The bursary ensures that the student can focus on their studies without worrying about financial difficulties.
How do I apply for the Nedbank Bursary Programme?
Applications are done online through the official Nedbank website or bursary portal.
The application process includes several steps:
- Visit the Nedbank bursary application page.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Complete the application form with all required information.
- Upload your Grade 11 or Grade 12 results or latest university results.
- Upload certified copies of your South African ID and proof of income for your parents or guardians.
- Write a short motivational letter explaining why you need the bursary and what you plan to achieve.
Applicants must make sure that all documents are clear and submitted before the deadline, which is usually around July or August of the year before the studies begin.
What courses does the Nedbank Bursary support?
Nedbank funds specific courses that are considered important for the bank and for national development. These include:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Engineering (Various Fields)
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Actuarial Science
Students must apply to study one of these courses to be considered for funding.
When is the application deadline for the Nedbank Bursary 2026?
The application deadline for the Nedbank Bursary Programme 2026 is not fixed every year, but it usually closes around 31 July 2025.
Students are advised to begin their applications as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
Late applications are not considered under any circumstance.
Can I apply if I already receive another bursary?
Nedbank does not allow students to hold two bursaries at the same time unless the second one is for a very small amount or covers only part of the expenses.
If you already have a bursary or scholarship, you must declare it when applying.
Nedbank will then assess whether you still qualify for additional support based on your financial need.
How will I know if I am selected?
After the application period closes, Nedbank reviews all applications and shortlists students.
If you are shortlisted, you may be contacted for further interviews or assessments.
Final bursary offers are usually sent out before the end of the year. If you are successful, you will be required to sign a bursary agreement.
What happens after I graduate?
Once you complete your studies, Nedbank may offer you a chance to join their graduate programme or work within the bank in a related field.
However, this is not guaranteed. The main goal of the bursary is to support your education and help you become a skilled professional.
The Nedbank Bursary Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for South African learners who want to study but cannot afford the high cost of university.
By meeting the requirements and applying early, you increase your chances of being selected.
Students are encouraged to prepare their documents and follow each step carefully to make the most of this opportunity.