The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 has officially opened, offering South African students an opportunity to receive financial support for their studies while preparing for careers in high-impact professional fields. As one of South Africa’s most established financial services groups, Sanlam continues to invest in skills development and transformation by supporting talented learners through structured bursary funding.
This announcement comes at a critical time when the cost of higher education remains a challenge for many families. The Sanlam Bursary Programme aims to remove financial barriers for academically strong students who demonstrate potential, commitment, and long-term career ambition aligned with the organisation’s future skills needs.
What Is the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026?
The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 is a merit-based financial aid initiative designed to support eligible South African students pursuing studies in scarce and critical skills areas, particularly within the financial and risk management sectors. The bursary focuses strongly on actuarial science, a field that plays a vital role in insurance, investment management, and long-term financial planning.
Beyond financial assistance, the programme reflects Sanlam’s broader commitment to human capital development, transformation, and inclusive economic growth. Successful bursary recipients are supported not only academically but also through exposure to the professional environment and potential future career pathways.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Who Should Apply for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026?
The bursary is aimed at high-performing South African students who meet the academic and eligibility requirements set out by Sanlam. While the programme is competitive, it is designed to identify students with both academic ability and personal attributes suited to demanding professional careers.
Ideal candidates include:
- Learners currently in Grade 12 planning to study in 2026
- University students already enrolled in relevant undergraduate degrees
- Students with strong results in Mathematics and core academic subjects
- Individuals with a clear interest in actuarial science and related disciplines
Applicants are expected to demonstrate discipline, analytical thinking, and long-term commitment to their chosen field of study.
Fields of Study Covered by the Sanlam Bursary Programme
Actuarial Science (Primary Focus)
The Sanlam Bursary Programme is widely known for its strong emphasis on actuarial science, a profession that combines mathematics, statistics, economics, and financial theory to assess and manage risk.
Actuaries are essential in industries such as insurance, investments, healthcare, and pensions. Due to the complexity of the qualification and the national shortage of qualified professionals, actuarial bursaries are among the most valuable forms of study funding in South Africa.
What Does the Sanlam Bursary Cover?
The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 is structured to reduce the financial burden on students so they can focus fully on their academic performance.
The bursary typically covers:
- Tuition fees paid directly to the institution
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation or residence costs, where applicable
- A living allowance, depending on individual circumstances
The exact value of the bursary may vary depending on the student’s level of study, institution, and financial need assessment.
How to Apply for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026
Online Application Process
All applications for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 must be completed online via the official Sanlam careers portal.
Applicants are required to:
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit a motivational statement addressing specific questions related to actuarial science and career goals
Official application link: https://careers.sanlamcloud.co.za/job/Bellville-Sanlam-Actuarial-Bursaries-WC/1288979001
No applications submitted via email or after the closing date will be considered.
Motivation Requirements: What Sanlam Looks For
As part of the application, candidates must submit a motivation answering structured questions. These questions are designed to assess clarity of career choice, understanding of the profession, and personal suitability.
Applicants are typically asked to explain:
- What an actuary does, in their own words
- Why they want to study actuarial science
- Why they believe they have the qualities required to succeed
- Why Sanlam should select them as a bursary recipient
- Alternative career paths they would consider if actuarial qualification is not achieved
Clear, honest, and well-thought-out responses significantly strengthen an application.
Closing Date for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026
Important Application Deadline
The official closing date for the Sanlam Actuarial Bursary Programme 2026 is: 30 June 2026
Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues or incomplete submissions. According to official guidance, if no feedback is received by 1 October 2026, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Selection Criteria and Employment Equity
Bursaries are awarded based on academic merit, motivation quality, and overall suitability. In line with South African legislation and corporate policy, Sanlam also considers its Employment Equity Plan during the selection process.
This approach ensures that the programme contributes meaningfully to transformation while maintaining high academic and professional standards.
Benefits Beyond Funding
One of the key advantages of the Sanlam Bursary Programme is that it extends beyond financial support.
Additional benefits may include:
- Early exposure to a professional corporate environment
- Networking with industry professionals
- Potential vacation work or structured development opportunities
- Consideration for future graduate or trainee programmes
For many recipients, the bursary serves as the foundation for a long-term professional relationship with Sanlam.
Why the Sanlam Bursary Programme Matters in 2026
South Africa continues to face a shortage of highly skilled professionals in quantitative and analytical fields. Programmes like the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 play a critical role in building local expertise, supporting transformation, and ensuring the sustainability of key industries.
For students with strong academic ability and a clear vision for their future, this bursary represents more than financial aid — it is an opportunity to access mentorship, professional development, and a pathway into one of the country’s most respected financial institutions.
Final Thoughts
The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 Now Open for South African Students is a credible, competitive, and well-structured funding opportunity for learners serious about pursuing careers in actuarial science and related fields. With a clear application process, transparent closing date, and strong institutional backing, it remains one of the most respected bursary programmes in the country.
Students who meet the requirements and are willing to commit to academic excellence are encouraged to apply early and submit a carefully prepared application.
