Absa Fellowship Bursary 2026: Eligibility, Funded Fields, Countries & Closing Date

The Absa Fellowship Bursary 2026 is one of the most competitive undergraduate funding opportunities for young African students who show strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a desire to create impact. Offered by Absa Group Limited, this fellowship goes beyond financial support and focuses on developing future leaders across Africa.

Designed for students entering their first year of undergraduate study in 2026, the Absa Fellowship Programme targets critical skills across commerce, STEM, humanities, creative industries, and digital disciplines.

What Is the Absa Fellowship Bursary Programme 2026?

The Absa Fellowship Bursary Programme is a merit-based undergraduate fellowship funded by Absa Group Limited, one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services groups listed on the JSE.

The programme aims to:

• Support academically strong students

• Develop leadership capacity

• Create a pipeline of future African professionals

• Invest in skills that drive economic and social transformation

Each year, Absa selects a limited number of high-potential students to receive comprehensive support through this fellowship.

Who Can Apply for the Absa Fellowship Bursary in 2026?

The Absa Fellowship Bursary has strict eligibility requirements to ensure the programme supports the right candidates.

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 25 years old

• Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric

• Be entering first-year undergraduate studies in 2026

• Intend to study toward an undergraduate degree

• Have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in Matric

• Show clear leadership qualities

This bursary is specifically designed for students at the start of their academic journey.

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Eligible Countries for the Absa Fellowship Programme

The Absa Fellowship Bursary is open to students who are citizens of selected African countries.

Eligible countries include:

• South Africa

• Mozambique

• Zambia

• Botswana

• Tanzania

• Kenya

• Mauritius

• Seychelles

• Uganda

• Ghana

Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the above countries to be considered.

Fields of Study Covered Under the Absa Fellowship Bursary

The Absa Fellowship Programme supports a wide range of future-focused disciplines that align with Africa’s development needs.

Funded fields include:

• Commerce

• Humanities and Social Sciences

• STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

  • Health Sciences are included

  • Medical and Veterinary studies are excluded

• Creative Arts

• Digital and Data Design

These fields were selected to encourage innovation, problem-solving, and sustainable economic growth.

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University and Study Requirements for the Absa Fellowship

To qualify for the Absa Fellowship Bursary, applicants must:

• Intend to study at a public university in South Africa

• Be registered for a full-time undergraduate degree

• Begin studies in the 2026 academic year

Private institutions and postgraduate studies are not covered under this programme.

Leadership and Academic Expectations of Absa Fellows

The Absa Fellowship Bursary is not only academically focused—it is also a leadership-driven programme.

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate:

• Leadership potential or community involvement

• Strong communication skills

• A growth mindset and ambition

• Commitment to personal and professional development

Absa looks for students who will become future leaders within their industries and communities.

How Many Students Are Selected for the Absa Fellowship Bursary?

For the 2026 academic year, 50 students will be awarded the Absa Fellowship Bursary.

Due to the limited number of awards, the selection process is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.

Absa Fellowship Bursary Closing Date and Application Timeline

Applicants must submit their applications before the official deadline.

• Closing Date: 10 September 2025

• Late applications will not be accepted

• Early submission is strongly recommended

Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents and apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute issues.

Why the Absa Fellowship Bursary Is a Valuable Opportunity

The Absa Fellowship Bursary is more than financial assistance. It is an investment in leadership, education, and Africa’s future workforce. Fellows gain access to opportunities that can shape their academic paths, careers, and long-term professional networks.

For students who aspire to lead, innovate, and make an impact, this fellowship can be a powerful foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Absa Fellowship Bursary?

It is an undergraduate fellowship programme funded by Absa Group Limited for African students entering first-year studies.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the Absa Fellowship Bursary 2026?

Students aged 18–25 from eligible African countries who meet academic and leadership requirements.

3. Can matric learners apply for the Absa Fellowship?

Yes, matric learners with qualifying results and plans to study in 2026 may apply.

4. Which countries are eligible for the Absa Fellowship Programme?

South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Uganda, and Ghana.

5. What fields of study are funded?

Commerce, Humanities and Social Sciences, STEM fields, Creative Arts, and Digital/Data Design.

6. Does the bursary cover medical or veterinary studies?

No, medical and veterinary studies are excluded.

7. Where must applicants study?

Applicants must intend to study at a public university in South Africa.

8. How many students are selected each year?

A total of 50 students are selected for the fellowship.

9. What is the minimum academic requirement?

Applicants must have a minimum 65% Matric average.

10. What is the closing date for the Absa Fellowship Bursary 2026?

The closing date is 10 September 2025.