South African Actuaries Development Programme (SAADP) Bursary South Africa

If you aim to build a career in Actuarial Science, the SAADP Bursary for 2026 is your chance. SAADP supports South Africans from historically disadvantaged backgrounds who show strong potential in mathematics, helping with fees, living costs, books and mentorship. Apply by the deadline and get the resources you need to excel. At BursaryForms, we are your guide to success!

About the SAADP

The South African Actuaries Development Programme (SAADP) is an independent non-profit founded in 2003, supported by donors including SASRIA Ltd, INSETA, Alexander Forbes Community Trust, FirstRand Foundation, Shanduka Foundation, and the Road Accident Fund. Its mission is to increase the number of Black professionals in Actuarial Science by providing support to students from under-resourced backgrounds. At BursaryForms, we are excited to connect you with this opportunity!

Fields Covered by the South African Actuaries Development Programme (SAADP) Bursary

This bursary supports studies in:

  • Actuarial Science — both for first-year entrants and students already enrolled at university.

Expenses Covered by the SAADP Bursary

What SAADP spends on its recipients:

  • Full tuition fees at one of the partner universities (UCT, UP, or Wits)
  • Textbooks and study materials
  • Accommodation (if eligible, often on-campus or approved residences)
  • Meal allowance
  • Living allowance to help with daily expenses outside tuition, books, accommodation
  • Academic and social support: tutorials, mentoring, psychosocial support via programme managers at partner universities

Eligibility Requirements for the SAADP Bursary

To be considered, you must satisfy:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Be Black or Coloured (from historically disadvantaged backgrounds)
  • Be in Grade 12 or in your 1st-, 2nd-, or 3rd-year university studies in Actuarial Science
  • Achieve at least 80% in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) at Matric/Grade 12 for Matric-applicants
  • Achieve at least 80% in English and Physical Science where required (Physical Science may be optional in some cases)
  • Have applied to or be enrolled in one of SAADP’s partner universities: University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, or the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
  • Demonstrate financial need and academic potential
  • Have written or be registered for the National Benchmark Test (NBT) where required by partner university

Helpful tips from BursaryForms:

  • Collect certified copies of your ID and prior academic records well ahead. Missing documents often disqualify applications.
  • Write a motivation letter explaining why you want to be an actuary and how you meet the criteria.
  • Request proof of provisional acceptance to a partner university as early as possible.
  • Check that your results in Grade 12 (or university) meet or exceed the required percentages before applying.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute—submit before the closing date.

This page was updated on September 25, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

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

How to Apply for the SAADP Bursary

Follow these steps to apply:

SAADP Bursary Application Form 2026

Required documents (certified):

  • South African ID document
  • Final Grade 11 results, and Grade 12 June results (for Matric applicants) or academic transcript if already at university
  • Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit, or SASSA documentation)
  • Motivational letter
  • Parent or guardian’s ID copy
  • Provisional or confirmed university acceptance letter (if available)

Submit via: Online application portal of SAADP (portal link above) or by email to applications@saadp.co.za

Related Bursaries in South Africa

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

Closing Date for the SAADP Bursary

31 August 2025 — the deadline for the 2026 application cycle.

Apply before the deadline; late submissions are not accepted.

Contact the SAADP

If you have questions or need assistance, reach out:

South African Actuaries Development Programme (SAADP)
Tel: +27 11 642 2202
Email: applications@saadp.co.za
Website: https://saadp.co.za
Partner Universities: University of Pretoria, University of Cape Town, University of the Witwatersrand

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the SAADP Bursary?
Black or Coloured South African citizens who are Grade 12 learners or 1st–3rd year Actuarial Science students at SAADP partner universities, and who meet the academic and financial-need criteria.
Which subjects are required for eligibility?
Strong Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) is required. English and Physical Science are often required by partner universities.
Which universities does SAADP support?
University of Cape Town (UCT), University of Pretoria (UP), and University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
Can students already at university apply?
Yes. Students in years 1–3 of an Actuarial Science degree may apply if they meet the performance and need requirements.
What costs does the SAADP Bursary cover?
Typical support includes tuition, accommodation or residence fees, meal allowance, textbooks, academic tutoring, mentoring and professional development.
Is financial need required?
Yes. Demonstrating financial need is part of the selection criteria alongside academic merit.
What documents must I submit?
Certified ID, school results or university transcript, proof of household income, motivational letter, parent/guardian ID, and provisional university acceptance if available.
What is the deadline for the current cycle?
The SAADP application closing date for this cycle has ended.
Can I apply after the closing date?
No. Late submissions are not accepted unless SAADP publishes a formal extension for the cycle.
How do I stay updated on future SAADP cycles?
Monitor SAADP’s official website and the application portal, and follow their official social channels for announcements.