Transform Your Future with Africa’s Premier Leadership Fellowship
Ready to rise and lead Africa’s fearless future? The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 applications are officially open from 1 to 10 September 2025.
This transformative initiative goes beyond traditional academic scholarships to foster entrepreneurship, leadership, and community impact across South Africa.
Application Period: 1 – 10 September 2025
Scholarships Available: 50 fellowships
Target Audience: Future leaders and changemakers
Focus Areas: Leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainability
About the Absa Fellowship Programme
More Than Just a Scholarship
The Absa Fellowship Programme represents a comprehensive leadership development initiative designed to empower young talent and create the next generation of African changemakers.
Aligned with Absa’s commitment to financial inclusion and sustainability, this programme equips future leaders with essential skills, knowledge, and mindset to drive growth and innovation across the continent.
Annual Selection of 50 Outstanding Candidates
Each year, Absa selects 50 exceptional applicants who demonstrate potential, passion, and purpose. These selected fellows emerge as leaders prepared to make positive impacts in private sectors, public service, or entrepreneurship, advancing sustainability while turning possibilities into reality.
Who We’re Looking For: Fellowship Criteria
Age and Academic Requirements
- Age Range: Between 18 and 25 years old
- Academic Standard: Pass mark of 65% or higher required
- Academic Documentation: Applicants may submit either June 2025 preliminary results or final matric results
- University Status: Must be enrolling as first-year undergraduate student at South African public university in 2026
Eligible Fields of Study
1. Commerce
- Business administration and management
- Economics and financial sciences
- Marketing and communications
- Accounting and finance
2. Humanities and Social Sciences
- Psychology and social work
- Political science and international relations
- Languages and literature
- History and philosophy
3. Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
- Health sciences (excluding medical or veterinary studies)
- Engineering disciplines
- Information technology and computer science
- Mathematical sciences and statistics
4. Creative Arts
- Visual arts and design
- Performing arts and music
- Media studies and film
- Architecture and interior design
5. Digital/Data Design
- User experience and interface design
- Data visualization and analytics
- Digital media and web design
- Information systems design
Application Process: Four-Phase Selection
Phase 1: Pre-screening Assessment
Prospective students undergo initial pre-screening to determine eligibility based on minimum requirements before advancing to subsequent phases.
Phase 2: Psychometric Assessment
Only applicants passing pre-screening receive voucher codes via email from Absafellowship@fundi.co.za to access comprehensive psychometric evaluation.
Phase 3: Shortlisting Process
Candidates are shortlisted based on scores achieved in psychometric assessment, demonstrating leadership potential and academic excellence.
Phase 4: Final Interview Round
Shortlisted applicants participate in interviews to assess leadership qualities, entrepreneurial mindset, and alignment with programme objectives.
Critical Application Guidelines
Application Deadline and Submission
- Applications Close: 10 September 2025
- No Late Applications: Deadline is strictly enforced with no exceptions
- Submission Requirements: Applications must be complete and submitted before deadline
Personal Application Requirements
IMPORTANT: Applications must be submitted using the prospective student’s own details, including:
- Personal name and identification
- Individual email address
- Personal cellphone number
- Required personal information
Applications submitted in parent or guardian names will not be accepted or considered.
Communication and Correspondence
- Direct Student Communication: No correspondence with parents or guardians
- Data Privacy Compliance: Regulations prevent third-party engagement except with authorized service providers
- Email Monitoring: Applicants must check emails frequently, including spam/junk folders
- Equal Treatment: All prospective students eligible regardless of Absa staff connections
Programme Benefits and Opportunities
Leadership Development Focus
Entrepreneurship Skills
- Business development and innovation techniques
- Market analysis and opportunity identification
- Financial literacy and investment principles
- Startup methodologies and scaling strategies
Community Impact Leadership
- Social responsibility and sustainability practices
- Community engagement and development strategies
- Public policy understanding and advocacy
- Non-profit management and social entrepreneurship
Professional Network Building
- Industry Connections: Access to Absa’s extensive professional network
- Mentorship Opportunities: Guidance from experienced business leaders
- Peer Collaboration: Connections with fellow programme participants
- Alumni Network: Lifetime access to fellowship alumni community
Career Advancement Pathways
Private Sector Leadership
- Corporate management and executive development
- Financial services and banking career tracks
- Consulting and advisory service opportunities
- Technology and innovation sector positions
Public Sector Impact
- Government service and policy development
- Non-governmental organization leadership
- International development and aid work
- Educational institution management
Entrepreneurial Ventures
- Startup founding and business creation
- Social enterprise development
- Technology innovation and development
- Creative industry entrepreneurship
Application Strategy and Success Tips
Academic Excellence Preparation
- Maintain 65%+ Average: Ensure academic performance meets minimum requirements
- Document Preparation: Gather June 2025 preliminary results or final matric certificates
- University Applications: Complete public university applications for 2026 admission
Personal Development Focus
- Leadership Experience: Demonstrate community involvement and leadership roles
- Entrepreneurial Mindset: Show innovation and problem-solving capabilities
- Sustainability Awareness: Understand environmental and social impact issues
- Communication Skills: Develop strong written and verbal expression abilities
Application Submission Best Practices
- Early Submission: Submit applications early to avoid technical difficulties
- Complete Documentation: Ensure all required information is accurate and complete
- Email Management: Monitor all communication channels including spam folders
- Personal Responsibility: Submit applications personally without parental involvement
Why Choose the Absa Fellowship Programme
Transformative Impact Opportunity
This fellowship programme offers more than financial support – it provides comprehensive leadership development, entrepreneurial training, and network access that transforms career trajectories and community impact potential.
Alignment with African Development
As part of Absa‘s commitment to Africa’s growth, fellows contribute to continent-wide development through innovation, sustainability practices, and inclusive economic growth initiatives.
Long-term Career Investment
The skills, networks, and experiences gained through this fellowship create lasting career advantages and leadership capabilities that extend far beyond university education.
Application Timeline and Action Steps
Immediate Actions Required
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm age, academic performance, and field of study alignment
- Prepare Documentation: Gather academic records and personal identification
- Plan Submission: Schedule application completion before 10 September 2025
- Monitor Communications: Set up email monitoring for programme updates
Application Period Schedule
- September 1, 2025: Applications open
- September 1-10, 2025: Application submission window
- September 10, 2025: Final deadline (no extensions)
- Post-deadline: Pre-screening and selection process begins
Apply Now for Absa Fellowship Programme 2026
Ready to become part of Africa’s next generation of leaders? This fellowship programme provides the foundation, network, and skills needed to drive meaningful change across the continent.
Application Deadline: 10 September 2025
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to join 50 exceptional individuals in a transformative leadership development programme that prepares you to turn possibilities into reality.
Submit your application between 1-10 September 2025 and take the first step toward becoming a fearless leader of Africa’s future.
The Absa Fellowship Programme is committed to developing the next generation of African leaders through comprehensive education, entrepreneurship training, and community impact initiatives.