Introduction
Education has the power to transform lives, open doors, and create opportunities that reach far beyond the classroom. Yet, for many talented young people, financial challenges stand in the way of achieving their academic dreams. The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme is a powerful initiative designed to change that narrative.
Each year, Standard Bank Group Bursary, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, invests in the education of exceptional students who show potential to become the next generation of African leaders. The bursary not only funds tuition and living expenses but also serves as a bridge between academic achievement and professional success.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the Standard Bank Group Bursary, including eligibility requirements, fields of study, the application process, and valuable tips for success. Whether you are in South Africa or an international student researching African scholarships from the USA, UK, or Canada, this article provides a clear, positive, and detailed look at how to secure your place in one of Africa’s most respected bursary programmes.
About Standard Bank Group
Standard Bank Group is Africa’s largest financial services organization, with a legacy spanning over 160 years. The bank operates in 20 African countries and has an extensive international presence in regions like Europe, Asia, and North America.
Driven by its purpose to drive Africa’s growth, the bank continues to invest in education, innovation, and community development. The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme is one of its most impactful initiatives, empowering talented individuals to access quality higher education and gain the skills necessary to contribute to Africa’s economic and social development.
Through this bursary, Standard Bank not only supports academic excellence but also nurtures a pipeline of future-ready professionals who embody innovation, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.
What is the Standard Bank Group Bursary?
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme is a full-cost bursary that covers all essential academic and living expenses for qualifying undergraduate and postgraduate students. It is designed to reward exceptional academic performance and provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate both potential and financial need.
Importantly, the bursary reflects the bank’s broader mission — to develop African talent for global impact. As a recipient, you are not only supported financially but also encouraged to become part of the bank’s vision to build sustainable, inclusive growth across the continent.
Beneficiaries who complete their qualifications successfully may be considered for employment within the bank, giving them a head start in their careers.
Fields of Study Funded by the Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Bursary funds a diverse range of academic fields that align with the bank’s focus on technology, finance, and emerging industries. These fields prepare students to thrive in a fast-changing world and contribute to innovation across Africa and beyond.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Fields Covered
- Agriculture – Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, and Sustainable Farming
- Commerce – Finance, Accounting, Banking, Economics, and Business Management
- Engineering – Civil, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, and Systems Engineering
- Mathematics and Statistics – Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Data Analytics
- Science – Actuarial Science, Computer Science, Data Science, and Information Science
- Technology – Financial Technology (FinTech), Information Technology, and Cybersecurity
- Behavioral Economics – Behavioral Finance, Sociology, Psychology, and Neuroscience
These areas are chosen to reflect the sectors that will define Africa’s future, from technology and data to environmental and financial innovation.
Benefits of the Standard Bank Group Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Fund is a full-cost bursary, which means it covers all major academic and living expenses. This comprehensive funding model ensures that students can fully dedicate themselves to their studies without financial stress.
The Bursary Covers:
- University tuition fees – paid directly to the institution.
- Accommodation – either in a university residence or approved private accommodation.
- Meals – catered or self-catering, depending on accommodation arrangements.
- Books and study materials – all prescribed academic resources are covered.
- Laptop computer – provided to support academic and research work.
- Monthly stipend – to assist with personal living expenses.
- Transport costs – including four round trips per year between home and campus.
This level of support makes the Standard Bank Group Bursary one of the most generous bursary schemes in South Africa. It enables students to focus entirely on achieving academic excellence while developing leadership and problem-solving skills.
The Undergraduate Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Undergraduate Bursary is specifically for students who have completed their first year of study and require financial assistance from their second year onward.
Key Requirements of Standard Bank Group Bursary
- Applicants must be registered full-time at a South African university.
- Students must have achieved at least 65% in their latest examinations.
- Applicants must demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need.
- Candidates must be willing to participate in an assessment process, which includes psychometric testing and an interview.
The undergraduate bursary targets well-rounded students — those who excel academically while also showing leadership potential, community involvement, or extracurricular engagement.
The Postgraduate Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Postgraduate Bursary provides full-cost funding for students pursuing Honours, Master’s, or equivalent postgraduate degrees.
Key Requirements of Standard Bank Group Bursary
- Applicants must have achieved 65% or above in their most recent examinations.
- Applicants must register for full-time postgraduate studies at a South African public university.
- Candidates will undergo psychometric evaluation and an interview.
- Applicants must show a combination of academic excellence and financial need.
Postgraduate bursary holders often go on to join Standard Bank’s graduate development programmes, positioning them for successful careers within the financial sector or in other global industries.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to South African citizens who are studying or plan to study in one of the approved fields. While the programme is primarily South Africa-focused, international readers from the USA, UK, and Canada can gain insight into how major African corporations invest in education to build a sustainable future workforce.
Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to their field, maintain strong academic results, and have a genuine financial need.
Application Process for the Standard Bank Group Bursary
Applying for the bursary is a structured and transparent process. To ensure your application stands out, follow the steps below carefully.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before you begin your online application, ensure that you have the following certified and scanned documents ready:
- South African ID
- Grade 12 certificate and full tertiary academic record
- Proof of household income (payslips or affidavits)
Step 2: Complete the Online Application of Standard Bank Group Bursary
Applications must be completed via StudyTrust’s online platform, hosted by DevMan. Visit the Standard Bank bursary page on StudyTrust’s website and click “Apply Here” to access the application portal.
Provide accurate details about your academic performance, family background, and financial circumstances. Remember that incomplete or inaccurate applications may be disqualified.
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications for the Standard Bank Group Bursary open on 1 May each year and close on 30 September. Late submissions are not considered, so submit your application early to avoid technical issues or delays.
Step 4: Assessment and Interview of Standard Bank Group Bursary
Shortlisted candidates will go through a formal assessment process that includes psychometric testing and an interview. These evaluations are designed to identify students with strong analytical abilities, emotional intelligence, and leadership potential.
Step 5: Provisional Offers
Successful candidates will receive provisional bursary offers, pending final acceptance from their university. Once confirmed, bursary recipients will be contacted with details of funding disbursement and conditions of the award.
Selection Criteria of Standard Bank Group Bursary
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Fund prioritizes applicants who demonstrate:
- A minimum academic average of 65%.
- Registration for full-time studies in approved fields.
- A strong academic record, supported by commitment and integrity.
- Proven financial need.
- The ability to contribute to the growth and innovation of Africa’s economy.
Obligations of Bursary Recipients
The bursary is not just financial aid; it is a partnership between the student and Standard Bank. Beneficiaries are required to maintain satisfactory academic performance throughout their studies.
Upon graduation, recipients may be offered employment within the bank. Accepting the bursary means you are open to working for Standard Bank if an offer is extended. This ensures that both the student and the bank benefit from a long-term investment in education and professional growth.
Why the Standard Bank Group Bursary is Special
What sets the Standard Bank Group Bursary apart is its holistic approach. It doesn’t simply pay for education — it builds futures.
Students supported by this programme often go on to become:
- Leading professionals in finance, technology, and engineering.
- Entrepreneurs driving innovation and job creation.
- Academics and researchers contributing to global knowledge.
- Change-makers promoting equality and inclusion across industries.
Through this bursary, Standard Bank ensures that Africa’s best minds receive the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of being awarded the bursary, consider the following practical tips:
- Start early – Gather documents and apply well before the closing date.
- Be thorough – Ensure all information is correct and consistent across forms.
- Show passion – In your motivational section, express why your chosen field matters to you and how you plan to make an impact.
- Prepare for assessments – Review your psychometric and interview skills in advance.
- Stay professional – Maintain clear communication and use a formal tone in all correspondence.
Applying with care and preparation demonstrates your dedication and professionalism — qualities that Standard Bank values highly.
Global Relevance: Lessons from Africa’s Investment in Education
While the Standard Bank Group Bursary primarily supports South African students, its model has international relevance. Readers in the USA, UK, and Canada can appreciate how corporate-funded bursaries contribute to both economic development and social responsibility.
By investing in education, Standard Bank is helping to build a generation of leaders who can compete on a global stage while remaining deeply rooted in Africa’s growth. The initiative demonstrates how businesses can play a vital role in shaping societies through education, inclusion, and empowerment.
Impact Stories
Over the years, many bursary recipients have gone on to successful careers in banking, technology, data science, and engineering. Their stories highlight the transformative power of the Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme.
Students from rural areas, townships, and urban centres alike have benefited from full financial support, mentorship, and career guidance — proving that talent can flourish when given the right opportunity.
These success stories inspire new applicants to believe that with hard work, integrity, and persistence, they too can achieve their goals.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Applications Open: 1 May 2026
- Applications Close: 30 September 2026
- Selection & Assessments: October – November 2026
- Final Awards Announced: December 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so ensure you submit all required materials on time.
Contact Details
For more information or application support, reach out to StudyTrust, the official administrator of the bursary:
Website: www.studytrust.org.za
Email: info@studytrust.org.za
You can also visit the Standard Bank Group website for corporate information and career opportunities.
Conclusion
The Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme is far more than a financial aid scheme — it is a gateway to opportunity, excellence, and leadership. By investing in education, Standard Bank is shaping a future defined by innovation, equality, and economic progress.
If you are a student who believes in your potential and wants to make a meaningful contribution to Africa and the world, this bursary is your chance to take that step.
Apply today, prepare carefully, and seize the opportunity to join a network of high-achieving scholars and professionals who are driving Africa’s succes
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