As one of the country’s leading financial institutions, Nedbank is committed to building a sustainable future by supporting academically gifted, financially deserving students. The bursary is specifically aimed at young South Africans pursuing their first undergraduate or Honours qualification in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or Green Economy-related fields at public universities or universities of technology in South Africa.
Why Nedbank’s Bursary Matters
With the rising cost of tertiary education, thousands of academically capable students are left behind due to financial hardship. Nedbank’s bursary programme addresses this barrier by providing full financial assistance to qualifying students, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic growth and development.
This initiative aligns with South Africa’s broader developmental goals, especially in critical sectors such as renewable energy, climate change mitigation, sustainable infrastructure, and technology innovation. By supporting students in these disciplines, Nedbank is contributing directly to job creation and a green, knowledge-driven economy.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to South African citizens who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must be currently in Matric (Grade 12) or have completed Matric
- Must intend to register for a first undergraduate or Honours degree/diploma in 2026
- Must be accepted to study full-time at a recognised public university or university of technology in South Africa
- Must have passed Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) in Matric
- Must have achieved an overall average of at least 65% (either in Matric or at tertiary level)
- Must demonstrate financial need
- If under 18 years old, must have parental or legal guardian consent
Priority Fields of Study
The bursary covers studies in the following areas:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Green Economy-related disciplines, such as:
- Environmental science
- Renewable energy
- Climate science
- Sustainable agriculture
- Energy efficiency and innovation
These fields are not only crucial to South Africa’s economic transformation but also offer high employability potential for graduates.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
While the exact value may vary depending on a student’s needs and programme of study, Nedbank’s bursary typically covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation costs
- Meals
- A living allowance where applicable
Required Documents for Application
Applicants should prepare the following certified documents before submitting their application:
- South African ID document or smart card
- Grade 11 final results and Matric mid-year results (for current Matrics)
- Matric certificate and latest university results (for first-year students)
- Latest tertiary results and current mid-year results (for second or third-year students)
- Official proof of admission from a public university or university of technology
- A signed Nedbank Financial Checks Affidavit (available on the application website)
- Three months’ recent bank statements
All documents must be recent, legible, and certified for the application to be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official Nedbank bursary portal.
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded, and your application is complete before the deadline of 31 August 2025.
Selection and Assessment Process
Once applications close, shortlisted candidates will undergo a multi-stage selection process that includes:
- Virtual interviews
- Psychometric testing
- Additional assessments
Final decisions will be made by the Nedbank Educational Trust, and all applicants—successful or not—will be notified of the outcome.
Check also: Mediclinic Bursary Programme 2026
In a country where youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges, bursary opportunities like the Nedbank External Bursary Programme can be the catalyst for long-term success and economic inclusion. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about building a career in STEM or the Green Economy, this is your chance to access world-class education without the burden of financial stress.
Don’t wait—submit your application today and take the first step toward a brighter, greener future.
