Finance Bursaries Still Open for 2026 Undergraduate Students — Apply Before You Miss Out!

 

If you are a 2026 undergraduate student wondering how to fund your degree without drowning in student debt, this article is written specifically for you. Finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate students are available right now — and many students miss them simply because they do not know where to look or when to apply.

 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know: what these bursaries cover, who qualifies, where to find them, and how to write an application that actually wins.

 

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What Are Finance Bursaries and Why Do They Matter?

 

A bursary is a form of financial aid awarded to students based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of both. Unlike student loans, bursaries do not need to be repaid — making them one of the most valuable forms of funding available to undergraduate students today.

 

For students pursuing degrees in accounting, financial management, economics, investment analysis, or any related field, finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate applicants represent a life-changing opportunity. They cover tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and in some cases, living allowances.

 

With the rising cost of tertiary education, securing a bursary means you can focus entirely on your studies instead of worrying about finances.

 

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Who Qualifies for Finance Bursaries in 2026?

 

Eligibility requirements differ across providers, but most finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate students share these common criteria:

 

– You are a South African citizen (or a citizen of the country where the bursary is offered)

– You are enrolling or currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program for 2026

– Your household income falls below a specified threshold (usually between R150,000–R350,000 per year for need-based bursaries)

– You have achieved a strong academic record, typically a minimum of 60–70% average in relevant subjects

– You are studying or intending to study a finance-related degree such as BCom Accounting, BCom Finance, Financial Sciences, or Economics

 

Some bursaries are also offered to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds as part of transformation goals in the financial sector.

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Top Finance Bursaries Still Open for 2026 Undergraduates

 

Here is a breakdown of some of the most prominent finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate students. Always visit official websites to confirm closing dates and updated requirements.

 

1. ABSA Bank Bursary Programme

ABSA offers undergraduate bursaries to students pursuing degrees in Finance, Accounting, Information Technology, and related fields. The bursary covers full tuition, study materials, and accommodation in some cases. Students who perform well may receive a vacation work offer or permanent employment after graduation.

 

Field: Finance, Accounting, Economics

Coverage: Tuition + additional allowances

Status: Open — check ABSA’s careers portal

 

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2. Standard Bank Group Bursary

Standard Bank provides bursaries to high-achieving students in financial and business disciplines. Recipients gain exposure to one of Africa’s largest financial institutions and may be considered for graduate placements.

 

Field: Finance, Business, Actuarial Science

Coverage: Full tuition + stipend

Status: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

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3. Nedbank Bursary Programme

Nedbank targets students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds who show academic promise in commerce or financial management. The programme also includes mentorship and networking opportunities.

 

Field: Financial Management, BCom

Coverage: Tuition + accommodation allowance

Status: Open for 2026 intake

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4. FirstRand Foundation Bursary

The FirstRand Foundation funds students across disciplines with a focus on commerce and finance. Students enrolled at South African universities in 2026 are encouraged to apply.

 

Field: Accounting, Finance, Mathematics

Coverage: Full tuition, books, and meals

Status: Open — limited spots available

 

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5. SARS Bursary Programme

The South African Revenue Service offers bursaries to undergraduate students studying Taxation, Accounting, and Finance. This is ideal for students interested in careers in public finance or tax administration.

 

Field: Taxation, Accounting, Finance

Coverage: Full tuition + monthly stipend

Status: Open — apply via SARS official website

 

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6. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) — Finance Track

While NSFAS is a broader scheme, students in finance-related programs at TVET colleges and universities can access dedicated funding. NSFAS remains one of the most accessible forms of support for students from low-income households.

 

Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, transport, and food allowance

Status: Applications open — income threshold applies

 

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7. Chartered Accountants Academy (SAICA) Bursaries

SAICA partners with major audit and accounting firms to fund students in Chartered Accountancy programs. This is one of the most competitive finance bursaries available, but it comes with significant career acceleration.

 

Field: Chartered Accountancy, BCom Accounting

Coverage: Full tuition + training contract

Status: Open through partner firms (Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY)

 

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How to Write a Winning Bursary Application

 

Getting your hands on finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate opportunities is not just about qualifying — it is about standing out. Here is what strong applications include:

 

A compelling personal statement — Explain your financial need, your academic goals, and why a career in finance excites you. Be specific and authentic.

 

Updated academic transcripts — Even if your marks are not perfect, include them along with a note about improvement if applicable.

 

Proof of income or financial need — Most providers require a recent payslip or income statement from your parent or guardian.

 

A clear career plan — Bursary providers invest in students with direction. Mention the type of financial career you are working toward.

 

Strong references — A reference from a teacher, school principal, or community leader adds credibility to your application.

 

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Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

 

Many students lose out on finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate programs due to avoidable errors. Watch out for these:

 

– Submitting incomplete documents

– Missing the closing date (set reminders well in advance)

– Writing a generic personal statement that could apply to any applicant

– Applying for bursaries outside your field of study

– Ignoring smaller bursaries in favour of only targeting large, competitive ones

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Where Else to Find Open Finance Bursaries for 2026

 

Beyond the major banks and institutions, here are other reliable sources for finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate applicants:

 

– University financial aid offices — Many universities have their own internal bursary funds that go unclaimed every year.

– Corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments — Large companies in mining, insurance, and retail regularly offer finance-related bursaries.

– Professional bodies — Organisations like CIMA, ACCA, and SAIPA occasionally support undergraduate students.

– Government departments — The Department of Higher Education and Training, National Treasury, and provincial departments offer annual bursary calls.

– Bursary portals — Websites dedicated to listing bursaries make the search much faster and more efficient.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q: Can I apply for more than one finance bursary at the same time?

Yes. Applying to multiple bursaries simultaneously increases your chances. Just make sure each application is tailored to the specific provider.

 

Q: What happens if I fail my course while on a bursary?

Most bursary agreements require you to maintain a minimum academic performance. Failing a course or falling below the required average may result in the bursary being withdrawn.

 

Q: Do finance bursaries cover postgraduate study?

Some do, but this article focuses on finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate students. For postgraduate funding, check with NSFAS, NRF, and specific university postgraduate offices.

 

Q: Is a bursary the same as a scholarship?

Not exactly. Scholarships are usually merit-based only, while bursaries consider both merit and financial need. Both are non-repayable forms of funding.

 

Q: How soon should I apply?

As early as possible. Many finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate programs close months before the academic year begins. Applying in the final quarter of the preceding year gives you the best chance.

 

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Final Thoughts

 

The path to a finance degree does not have to be blocked by financial barriers. Finance bursaries still open for 2026 undergraduate students exist in greater numbers than most applicants realize — from major banking institutions to government bodies, professional associations, and private corporations.

 

Start your search today, gather your documents, and put genuine effort into every application. The funding is out there. The question is whether you are willing to go find it.

 

Tip: Bookmark this page, share it with fellow students, and revisit bursary portals regularly since new openings are posted throughout the year.

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Disclaimer: Bursary availability and requirements change annually. Always verify information directly with the funding institution before applying.