The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Economic Research Department invites academically-strong South African matriculants to apply for its 2026 Economics External Bursary, covering full undergraduate study in economics-related degrees at accredited institutions.

About the Bursary Provider

SARB, South Africa’s central bank, promotes economic stability and policy through research. The Economics External Bursary aims to cultivate future economists by funding full-time undergraduate study in economics disciplines for deserving learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Fields Covered

Bursaries are awarded for full-time first-year study in:

  • Economics
  • Econometrics / Economics and Econometrics
  • Economics and Mathematical Statistics
  • Econ/Economic Science degrees

Expenses Covered

The bursary provides full funding including tuition, registration fees, textbooks, vacation work placements, laptop where required, and access to career and wellness readiness programmes. Funding is annual but does not require reapplication each year.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all the following:

  • South African citizen under 30 years of age
  • Entering first-year undergraduate study in an approved economics field in 2026
  • Achieved at least 70% overall average in June 2025 Matric exams, with ≥70% in English & Mathematics
  • Accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognized South African university (proof required)
  • Cannot afford university without financial assistance—financial need is assessed

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted via:

Upload certified copies of ID, Matric exam results (or final certificate), university acceptance (with student number), and a ~250‑word motivational letter. Use the promo code and indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za/” when asked how you heard about the bursary.

Closing Date

30 September 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted within one month of closing.

Contact the Bursary Provider

SARB Economics External Bursary administered by TTI Bursaries
Tel: 010 746 4366
Email: info@ttibursaries.co.za
Website: resbank.co.za 

1. Who is eligible for the SARB Economics Bursary?
South African citizens under 30 writing Matric in 2025, achieving ≥70% overall and in English and Maths, accepted for an economics-related degree in 2026 and demonstrating financial need.
2. Which fields qualify?
Economics, Econometrics, Economics & Mathematics, and Economic Science degrees at accredited South African universities.
3. What costs are covered?
Full funding: tuition, textbooks, registrations, laptop if needed, wellness and career readiness support, and vacation work placements.
4. How long does funding last?
Funding continues annually if you maintain academic performance—but you do not need to reapply each year. There’s an academic results submission deadline annually.
5. How do I apply?
Apply online via TTI using promo code SARBERD26—or email/post to TTI. Upload certified ID, Matric results, proof of university acceptance, and a brief motivational letter.
6. What documents are required?
Certified ID copy, June 2025 Matric results or final certificate, acceptance letter with student number, and a motivational essay (~250 words).
7. What’s the deadline?
30 September 2025. No exceptions for late or incomplete applications.
8. When will I hear back?
Shortlisted candidates are contacted within about one month of the closing date; if you don’t receive feedback by then, your application was likely unsuccessful.
9. Is there an interview?
Yes—shortlisted applicants may be required to attend an interview and will be expected to sign a bursary agreement with the SARB.
10. Who can I contact if I have questions?
Contact TTI Bursaries: Tel 010 746 4366 or Email info@ttibursaries.co.za. They administer the SARB bursary programme.