The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) plays a pivotal role in the nation’s financial stability and economic development. Beyond its core functions, the SARB is committed to nurturing future talent through its External Bursary Scheme, which supports academically gifted yet financially disadvantaged students. This initiative addresses the skills shortage in South Africa and fosters a new generation of professionals equipped to contribute to the country’s economic landscape.
Fields of Study
The SARB’s bursary programme is designed to align with the bank’s diverse functions and activities. Consequently, bursaries are awarded for studies in fields that directly or indirectly affect the SARB’s operations. These fields include, but are not limited to:
- Economics
- Actuarial Sciences
- Mathematical Statistics
- Information Technology
- Finance
- Law
- Accounting
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Social Work
This broad spectrum ensures that the bursary scheme caters to various interests and career aspirations, all while supporting the SARB’s overarching mission.
Application Criteria
To be eligible for the SARB External Bursary Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Age Requirement: Applicants should be younger than 30 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Performance: A minimum average pass mark of 70% in the June Grade 12/Matric examinations is required. The final awarding of the bursary is contingent upon the final results.
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need, indicating they cannot afford a university education without the bursary.
- University Acceptance: Provisional acceptance into an undergraduate degree at a recognised South African university is mandatory.
These criteria ensure that the bursary is awarded to individuals who exhibit academic excellence and have a genuine need for financial assistance.
Application Process
The application process for the SARB bursary is straightforward yet requires careful attention to detail. Prospective applicants should follow these steps:
- Obtain the Application Form: The application form can be downloaded from the SARB’s official website.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in all required sections of the form accurately and honestly.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather the necessary documents, which include:
- Certified copy of your June Grade 12/Matric results.
- Proof of provisional acceptance at a recognised South African university.
- A 250-word essay motivating your application.
- A certified copy of your South African identity document (ID) is needed.
- Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted via:
Dimpho Nkoana POSTNET Suite 101 Private Bag X153 Bryanston 2021 Email: sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za
- Online: Through the TTI Bursaries portal at https://ttibursaries.co.za/students/. Use the promotional code: SARB2025.
To avoid disqualification, it’s imperative to ensure that all sections of the application form are completed and that all supporting documents are included.
Key Dates and Application Deadlines
The SARB bursary application cycle adheres to a strict timeline:
- Application Opening Date: Applications typically open in June each year.
- Application Closing Date: The deadline for submission is 30 September. For the 2025 academic year, the closing date is 30 September 2024.
- Notification of Outcome: Applicants who have not been contacted within one month after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Adhering to these dates is crucial, as late applications are not considered.
Additional Information
Successful bursary recipients are expected to:
- Maintain Academic Performance: Bursary holders must successfully complete each academic year to remain eligible for continued funding.
- Participate in Vacation Work: The SARB provides vacation work opportunities to bursary holders, offering practical experience and insight into the bank’s operations.
- Sign a Bursary Agreement: Recipients must sign an agreement with the SARB outlining the terms and conditions of the bursary.
These provisions ensure that bursary holders are financially supported and integrated into the SARB’s professional environment, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.
Conclusion
The South African Reserve Bank’s External Bursary Scheme represents a significant investment in the nation’s future, allowing deserving students to pursue higher education and contribute to South Africa’s economic development. By supporting studies in fields aligned with its functions, the SARB ensures a continuous influx of skilled professionals ready to uphold and advance its mission. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare diligently, adhere to application guidelines, and submit their applications within the stipulated timeframe to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity.