Full-Cost Funding for Africa’s Future Leaders
The Standard Bank Bursary Programme offers comprehensive funding for academically exceptional students pursuing careers in high-demand fields.
This full-cost bursary covers everything from tuition to living expenses, creating pathways for the next generation of African talent.
Comprehensive Coverage Beyond Just Tuition
Unlike partial funding programmes, Standard Bank bursary eliminates financial barriers completely. Recipients receive university fees, accommodation, meals, study materials, laptops, monthly stipends, and transport allowances.
What Your Standard Bank Bursary Covers
- Complete university fees and registration costs
- University residence or approved private accommodation
- Meal plans or self-catering allowances
- Books, study materials, and academic resources
- Brand new laptop computer for studies
- Monthly living expense stipend
- Four annual transport trips between home and campus
Two Distinct Standard Bank Bursary Programmes Available
Undergraduate Bursary Programme
Designed for students completing first year successfully and requiring funding from second year onwards. Perfect for academically strong students demonstrating consistent performance and leadership potential.
Key Requirements:
- Minimum 65% average in latest examinations
- Full-time undergraduate registration confirmed
- Strong academic track record in funded disciplines
- Demonstrated financial need
- Well-rounded profile with extracurricular involvement
Postgraduate Bursary Programme
Supporting academically sound graduates pursuing Master’s level qualifications in priority fields. Ideal for students ready to advance specialized knowledge in critical economic sectors.
Essential Criteria:
- 65% minimum average in recent academic results
- Full-time postgraduate registration at South African public institutions
- Proven academic excellence in undergraduate studies
- Financial need demonstration required
- Commitment to formal assessment participation
Priority Study Fields for Bursary Awards
Traditional STEM Disciplines
Agriculture: Sustainable farming, agricultural technology, food security Engineering: All engineering specializations driving infrastructure development Mathematics: Pure and applied mathematics supporting analytical careers Statistics: Data analysis and statistical modeling for business intelligence
Science Specializations
Actuarial Science: Risk assessment and financial modeling expertise Analytics: Business intelligence and data-driven decision making Computer Science: Software development and technology innovation Data Science: Big data analysis and machine learning applications Information Science: Information systems and digital transformation
Technology Focus Areas
Financial Technology: Digital banking and financial innovation Information Technology: System development and cybersecurity solutions
Emerging Behavioural Economics Fields
Economics: Macro and microeconomic analysis Behavioural Finance: Psychology-driven financial decision making Sociology: Social behavior impact on economic systems Psychology: Consumer behavior and decision science Neuroscience: Brain science applications in business contexts
Application Process and Timeline
Critical Application Deadlines
Application Season: May 1 to September 30 annually Platform: StudyTrust online application system via DevMan hosting Assessment Period: October through December Award Notifications: January for following academic year
Standard Bank Bursary Required Documentation
Identity Verification:
- Certified South African ID copy
- Passport-style photograph for application
Academic Records:
- Complete Grade 12 certificate with all subjects
- Full tertiary academic transcript showing all completed modules
- Current year results if available
Financial Documentation:
- Combined household income proof
- Parents’ or guardians’ employment verification
- Bank statements demonstrating financial circumstances
Selection Process Overview
Initial Application Screening
Applications undergo thorough review against minimum academic and financial criteria. Only complete submissions with all required documentation advance to assessment phases.
Formal Assessment Requirements
Shortlisted candidates participate in comprehensive evaluation including:
Psychometric Testing: Cognitive ability, personality profiling, and aptitude assessments measuring potential for success in chosen fields
Interview Process: Panel interviews evaluating academic commitment, career goals, leadership potential, and alignment with Standard Bank values
Work-Back Agreement Details
Bursary recipients receiving Standard Bank employment offers upon graduation must fulfill work-back obligations. This creates guaranteed career pathways in Africa’s leading financial services organization.
Why Choose Standard Bank Bursary
Complete Financial Security
Full-cost coverage eliminates money worries, allowing focus on academic excellence and personal development. Recipients study without financial stress affecting performance.
Career Guarantee Opportunity
Work-back agreements provide direct employment pathways into Standard Bank’s graduate programmes, launching successful careers in banking, finance, and technology.
African Leadership Development
Programme specifically shapes African talent for continental leadership roles, building skills needed for economic transformation and sustainable development.
Network Building Advantages
Connect with fellow bursary holders, Standard Bank professionals, and African leaders through exclusive networking events and mentorship programmes.
Application Success Strategies
Academic Excellence Maintenance
Sustain 65% minimum averages while demonstrating improvement trends. Strong performance in mathematics and science subjects particularly important for STEM applications.
Financial Need Documentation
Provide comprehensive household income documentation proving genuine financial need. Accurate financial disclosure essential for fair assessment.
Well-Rounded Profile Development
Develop leadership experience through sports, societies, community service, or part-time work. Standard Bank values diverse talents and social responsibility.
Field Alignment Demonstration
Choose study programmes clearly aligning with funded disciplines. Research career prospects and skill demand in your chosen specialization.
You can also apply for :
Important Application Guidelines
Online Platform Requirements
Complete applications exclusively through StudyTrust’s DevMan-hosted platform. Paper applications or alternative submission methods not accepted.
Document Certification Standards
All academic records and identity documents must be properly certified by authorized institutions, commissioners of oaths, or notaries public.
Application Completeness Critical
Incomplete applications face automatic disqualification regardless of academic merit. Double-check all required documents before submission deadline.
Contact Information and Support
Visit Standard Bank bursary webpage for detailed application instructions, frequently asked questions, and technical support. Follow social media channels for application updates and deadline reminders.
The Standard Bank Bursary Programme represents more than funding—it’s your gateway to joining Africa’s financial services leader while building skills for continental economic transformation.