The ABSIP Bursary invites eligible students for the 2025 academic year who aim to build a career in investment management and related financial-services fields. This opportunity is designed for black South African students who meet the academic and financial-need criteria and wish to pursue full-time tertiary study in approved disciplines.

About the Bursary Provider

The Association of Black Securities and Investment Professionals (ABSIP) was established in 1995 to address the under-representation of black professionals in South Africa’s securities, investment and financial-services sectors. Through its bursary programme (in partnership with STANLIB), ABSIP supports high-performing students entering careers in investment management.

Fields Covered

The bursary covers studies in the following field(s):

  • Bachelor of Business Science (BBusSc) in Investment Management or related major
  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with majors in Economics, Financial Analysis, Business Finance
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) with majors in Mathematics, Statistics, Financial Analysis or Investment Management

Expenses Covered

The bursary will cover:

  • Tuition fees at approved universities
  • Book allowance (textbooks or course materials)
  • Laptop (based on financial-need)
  • Accommodation (preferably on-campus)
  • A stipend (based on financial-need)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum entry criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen.
  • Must be Black, as defined by the B-BBEE Act and from a historically disadvantaged background.
  • Must have completed Matric and be accepted for or already enrolled full-time in one of the approved qualifications (BBusSc, BCom, BSc) at one of the approved public universities.
  • Must aim for a career in investment management, financial analysis, business finance, economics, mathematics or statistics.
  • Must have achieved a strong academic record — a minimum average of about 75% in core academic modules/subjects.
  • Must demonstrate financial need.
  • Applicants must have no permanent work experience, though vacation work is permitted.
  • Must not be a relative or employee of STANLIB.

This page was updated on October 27, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply

To apply, download or access the official application form via the ABSIP bursary portal.

Submit clear certified copies of the following documents with the completed form:

  • Applicant’s South African ID document (certified copy)
  • Matric certificate or latest school results (certified)
  • University fee statement or quotation on institution letterhead (if already enrolled)
  • Academic transcript (for current students)
  • Parents/guardians ID documents and proof of income / affidavit if unemployed
  • One-page motivational letter explaining why you wish to study in investment management and what your career aspiration is

Submit your full application online via the portal before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date

17 January 2025 is the closing date for the 2025 bursary intake.

Contact the Bursary Provider

For queries, contact:
Association of Black Securities and Investment Professionals (ABSIP)
Tel: 010 203 9025
Email: admin@absip.co.za
Website: www.absipconnect.com

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible to apply for the ABSIP Bursary?
Applicants must be black South African citizens, from a historically disadvantaged background, who have completed Matric and are entering or enrolled full-time in a qualifying investment-related degree at an approved university.
2. Which fields of study qualify for this bursary?
Fields include Investment Management, Financial Analysis, Business Finance, Economics, Mathematics or Statistics within the context of a BBusSc, BCom or BSc degree.
3. What costs does the bursary cover?
It covers tuition fees, book allowance, possible laptop, accommodation (preferred if on-campus) and a stipend based on need.
4. What academic average is required?
Applicants are expected to have achieved at least around a 75% average in core subjects and demonstrate strong academic performance.
5. Can students currently studying undergraduate apply?
Yes. Both first-year enrolments and continuing full-time students advancing to the next year may apply, provided they meet all criteria.
6. Is work experience permitted?
Permanent work experience disqualifies the applicant; only vacation or temporary work may have been performed.
7. What is the closing date for applications?
17 January 2025 for the 2025 intake. Submissions after this date will not be accepted.
8. Can the bursary be renewed annually?
Yes. Renewal is possible each year provided academic performance remains satisfactory and funds are available.
9. Does this bursary lock me into working for a company after graduation?
No publicly stated requirement to serve a particular company post-graduation; however you may wish to check the bursary agreement for terms.
10. Who can I contact for queries about the ABSIP Bursary?
You can contact ABSIP via Tel: 010 203 9025 or Email: admin@absip.co.za. Visit their website for more details.

Before you apply for any bursary, make sure you have a clear plan. Download our comprehensive Bursary Application Checklist to stay organized, submit your documents correctly, and increase your chances of success.

Bursary Application Checklist