SARB opens 2027 economics bursary applications

The SARB's external bursary programme aims to address the severe shortage of skills in South Africa by providing scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In collaboration with the SARB Academy, the Economic Research Department invites prospective undergraduate students to apply for competitive bursaries.

These are offered in fields such as economics, economics and econometrics, economics and mathematical statistics, and economic science.

The initiative aligns with the SARB's corporate social responsibility to foster economic well-being through maintaining price and financial stability, regulating the financial sector, and managing interest rates.

This investment in education is crucial for developing the next generation of experts who will contribute to the nation's economic resilience and growth.

The bank emphasizes that the bursary scheme is a key part of its broader mandate to serve all South Africans.

To qualify, applicants need provisional acceptance into an undergraduate economics degree, an average pass mark of 70% in their current year, with 70% or higher in English and Mathematics.

Candidates must be under 30 and demonstrate financial need.

The application deadline is Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

Required documents include examination results and proof of institutional acceptance.

Applications are accepted via post, email, or an online portal, using promo code SARBERD27. Interviews will be conducted, and successful applicants will sign an agreement with the SARB.