You're the change we want to invest in

Applications for the 2026 Changeblazers bursaries have closed.

Ninety One wants to back talented young students who need a helping hand – financially and otherwise – to pursue their ambition of studying at a tertiary institution and go on to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s economy.

We understand that students from under-resourced backgrounds need more than funding to thrive. That’s why our comprehensive bursary offers full support – from tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials to private tutoring, career guidance, resilience training, mental health support, and financial wellbeing sessions.

We’re not just supporting students – we’re building future talent for the financial services industry and the world in which we operate.

Want to become a #Changeblazer?

Our wide range of bursaries are in these related fields of study:

  • Business, Finance and Economics
  • Technology & Computer science
  • Engineering
  • Healthcare (excl. medicine, dentistry, veterinary science)
  • Psychology
  • Education

What bursaries are available?

Our wide range of bursaries are in these related fields of study:

  • Business, Finance and Economics
  • Technology & Computer science
  • Engineering
  • Healthcare (excl. medicine, dentistry, veterinary science)
  • Psychology
  • Education

What are the criteria?

To meet the criteria, an applicant should:

  • Intend on studying full time in one of the aforementioned fields of study, at a South African university
  • Demonstrate academic excellence
  • Demonstrate leadership qualities
  • Preferably have obtained a minimum of 70% in English and mathematics or sciences in Grade 11
  • Be a South African citizen under the age of 21 in 2026
  • Demonstrate financial need (Typically a family income of less than R600 000 per annum)*
  • Meet the minimum entrance requirements for their chosen field of study

* Mitigating circumstances will be taken into account where applicable.

How do I apply?

Thank you to the more than 3 500 learners who applied for the 2026 Changeblazers programme.

The 2026 cohort has now been finalised, and successful applicants have been informed of their selection.

We appreciate the time, effort and ambition shown by all applicants. The quality of submissions continues to reflect the depth of talent across South Africa.

Applications for the 2027 intake will open later this year.

If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to check this page regularly for updates and further details on the application process.

Good luck!

Hear from our Changeblazers

Changeblazers in numbers

Students
Students

120+

120+ students supported
90+ currently at university
Female students
Female students

61%

of the students are female.
Applications
Applications

3500+

More than 3500 applications for 2026 intake.

For Tomorrow

Be inspired by our Changeblazers

Enabling high potential, under-resourced students to access and thrive at tertiary institutions.

Read more

Important information
Ninety One SA is an authorised financial services provider.