The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 has officially opened, providing an invaluable opportunity for South African students to receive financial support for their tertiary education. This initiative by Sanlam, a leading financial services group in South Africa, is designed to develop future professionals in crucial sectors, primarily focusing on actuarial science and risk management.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!At a time when many families face financial hurdles in accessing higher education, the Sanlam bursary aims to reduce these barriers and support students who demonstrate academic excellence, discipline, and long-term commitment to their career paths.
What Is the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026?
The Sanlam Bursary Programme is a merit-based funding scheme aimed at South African students pursuing studies in fields where critical skills are in short supply. The bursary mainly targets students interested in actuarial science, a profession integral to financial planning, insurance, investment management, and risk assessment.
By investing in human capital development and transformation, Sanlam seeks not only to provide financial aid but also to offer academic support, professional exposure, and career development opportunities for bursary recipients.
Who Is Eligible for the Sanlam Bursary Programme in 2026?
The bursary is competitive and targets students who meet specific academic and personal criteria, including:
- South African citizens currently in Grade 12 planning to study in 2026 or students already enrolled in relevant undergraduate degrees.
- Strong academic performance, especially in mathematics and related core subjects.
- Genuine interest in actuarial science or similar financial fields.
- Demonstrated discipline, analytical thinking, and a clear long-term career goal aligned with Sanlam’s focus.
Applicants are expected to show commitment to their studies and readiness to contribute to South Africa’s professional landscape in finance and risk management.
Fields of Study Covered
Actuarial Science: The Primary Focus
The bursary prominently supports actuarial science students due to the profession’s critical role in South Africa’s economy. Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, economics, and financial theory to evaluate and manage risk, impacting sectors such as:
- Insurance
- Investment management
- Healthcare financing
- Pension fund management
Given the complex nature of actuarial qualifications and the country’s shortage of qualified professionals, Sanlam’s bursary is a key investment in developing this essential skill set.
What Does the Sanlam Bursary Programme Cover?
Sanlam’s bursary aims to ease the financial burden of tertiary education, allowing students to focus fully on their academic performance. The bursary typically covers:
- Tuition fees paid directly to the institution.
- Textbooks and prescribed study materials.
- Accommodation costs for students requiring residence.
- A living allowance based on individual circumstances.
The exact value of the bursary varies depending on the student’s level of study, institution, and assessed financial need.
How to Apply for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026
Online Application Process
All applications must be submitted via the official Sanlam careers portal:
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents, including academic records and identification.
- Submit a detailed motivational statement responding to specific questions about actuarial science and career aspirations.
Official application link: Sanlam Actuarial Bursaries 2026
Motivational Statement Requirements
Applicants must clearly articulate:
- Their understanding of an actuary’s role.
- Reasons for choosing actuarial science.
- Personal suitability and commitment.
- Why they deserve the bursary.
- Alternative career plans if they do not qualify as actuaries.
Honest, thoughtful, and well-structured responses significantly strengthen the application.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Application deadline: 30 June 2026
- Applicants are advised to submit applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- If no feedback is received by 1 October 2026, applicants should assume their application was unsuccessful.
Selection Criteria and Employment Equity
Sanlam awards bursaries based on:
- Academic merit.
- Quality of motivation and personal suitability.
- Alignment with Sanlam’s Employment Equity Plan, ensuring fair representation and transformation.
This ensures that the bursary programme supports both excellence and social progress in South Africa.
Additional Benefits Beyond Financial Support
The Sanlam Bursary Programme offers more than just funding:
- Early exposure to the corporate and professional environment.
- Opportunities to network with industry professionals.
- Access to vacation work and structured development programmes.
- Potential entry into graduate or trainee programmes within Sanlam.
These benefits provide a strong foundation for a successful career and a lasting relationship with one of South Africa’s top financial institutions.
The Significance of the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026
South Africa continues to face a shortage of highly skilled professionals in quantitative and analytical roles. The Sanlam Bursary Programme contributes to building local expertise, fostering economic transformation, and supporting sustainable growth in key sectors.
For deserving students, this bursary represents not only financial relief but also a gateway to mentorship, professional development, and a career path with Sanlam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for the Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026?
A: South African students in Grade 12 planning to study in 2026 or those already enrolled in relevant degrees with strong academic performance and interest in actuarial science.
Q2: What fields of study does the bursary cover?
A: Primarily actuarial science, with a focus on fields related to finance, risk management, insurance, and investments.
Q3: What expenses does the bursary cover?
A: Tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance, depending on individual circumstances.
Q4: How do I apply?
A: Applications must be submitted online through Sanlam’s official careers portal, including a motivational statement.
Q5: When is the application deadline?
A: The deadline for applications is 30 June 2026.
Q6: What happens if I don’t hear back after applying?
A: If no feedback is received by 1 October 2026, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The Sanlam Bursary Programme 2026 remains one of the most reputable and sought-after bursaries in South Africa, offering a clear pathway for talented students to excel in actuarial science and financial services. With its structured support, professional development, and financial assistance, the programme plays a critical role in nurturing the next generation of South African professionals.
Eligible students are encouraged to apply early and prepare their applications carefully to maximize their chances of success.
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.