Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary 2027

The Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary supports union members and their dependants in South Africa to pursue a first-time undergraduate qualification at a public university.

What it offers

• R77 000 per student per academic year as partial funding
• Dedicated Student Support Practitioner for academic and personal support
• Laptop provided
• Mental health and counselling support
• Academic support including webinars, tutoring, and resources
• Vacation work opportunities for final-year students
• A 12-month internship for unemployed graduates (subject to placement availability)

Who can apply

• Paid-up members of one of the ten participating unions
• Full-time and permanent employees of one of the participating unions
• Spouses (as legally defined) or child dependants (under 25) of a member or employee
• Intending to study at a public university in South Africa
• Pursuing your first undergraduate qualification (diploma or bachelor’s degree)
• Membership fees must be up to date

What you'll do

• Study towards a first undergraduate qualification at one of South Africa’s 26 public universities

How to apply

• Submit identification documents:
  • SA ID or passport of the union member/employee
  • SA ID or passport of the dependant (if applicable)
  • Union membership number or employee number of the main member/employee
• Submit academic transcripts:
  • Grade 12 learners: June matric report and Grade 11 year-end report
  • Post-matriculants not studying: Official matric certificate
  • Current university students: Mid-year and year-end academic transcripts from the previous academic year OR matric results if currently in your first year
• All transcripts and reports must be official and clearly visible
• Approved applicants will be required to submit additional documentation as proof of dependency (e.g., unabridged birth certificate, marriage certificate, proof of financial support or relevant medical or legal documents)

Good to know

• Applications are open each year from 1 July to 31 August
• Selection is based on academic performance and is conducted by a committee of four senior officials from different South African higher education institutions
• 60 scholarships are awarded each year
• Selection process takes place from 7–9 October 2026
• Final approval is granted by The Old Mutual Education Trust Board in November 2026
• Preference is given to Grade 12 (Matric) applicants