South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Economics Bursaries 2027: Apply for Full Undergraduate Funding
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is offering an important opportunity for academically strong students through its Economics Bursary Programme 2027. This bursary is designed to support students who want to study Economics and related fields but cannot afford university fees.
With South Africa’s growing need for skilled economists, this programme helps build future professionals who can contribute to economic research, policy development and financial stability.
If you are passionate about numbers, data, and how economies work, this bursary can be a strong pathway into your future career.
What Is the SARB Economics Bursary 2027?
The SARB Economics Bursary Programme is a fully supported study opportunity offered by the South African Reserve Bank through its Economic Research Department and SARB Academy.
It provides financial assistance to students who want to pursue full-time undergraduate studies in Economics-related fields at accredited South African universities.
The aim is to support students who show academic strength but lack financial resources to fund their studies.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary is available for the following undergraduate programmes:
- Economics
- Economics and Econometrics
- Economics and Mathematical Statistics
- Economic Science
These fields focus on understanding economic systems, data analysis, financial modelling and policy development.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the SARB Economics Bursary 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be under the age of 30
- Must have completed Matric or currently be in Matric
- Must intend to study full-time in Economics-related fields
- Must be entering first-year university studies in 2027
- Must have been accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised South African university
This bursary is aimed at first-year students starting their academic journey in 2027.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet strong academic performance standards:
- Minimum overall average of 70% in the 2026 academic year
- Minimum of 70% in English and Mathematics
These requirements ensure that selected candidates have the academic ability to succeed in demanding Economics programmes.
Financial Need Requirements
The bursary prioritises students who are in financial need.
Applicants must:
- Come from a disadvantaged background
- Be unable to afford university studies without financial support
This makes the programme accessible to talented students who would otherwise struggle to access higher education.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- Matric June results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate or final results (if completed)
- University acceptance letter for 2027
- Motivational essay (approximately 250 words)
The acceptance letter must be on official university letterhead and include a student number.
Incomplete applications may lead to automatic disqualification.
Selection Process
After applications close, shortlisted candidates will be contacted within one month.
The selection process may include:
- Academic screening
- Interviews
- Assessment testing
Successful applicants will be required to sign a bursary agreement with SARB.
If no feedback is received within one month after closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the application process using the official SARB bursary application system or download the application form.
Click here to apply online for SARB Economics Bursary South Africa 2027.
Applicants may also download and complete the SARB Economics Bursary Application Form 2027.
When applying, use the promotional code:
SARBERD27
Applications can be submitted via:
Email: sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za
Or by post to:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston
2021
Applicants should only submit one application.
Bursary Enquiries
For questions or support, contact:
TTI Bursaries
Tel: 010 746 4366
Email: info@ttibursaries.co.za
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is:
30 September 2026
Late applications will not be accepted, so students are encouraged to apply early.
Why This Bursary Matters
Economics plays a major role in shaping national policy, financial systems and business decision-making.
This bursary helps develop future economists who can:
- Analyse economic trends
- Support government and financial institutions
- Contribute to research and policy development
- Strengthen South Africa’s economic planning systems
For students with strong academic results, this is a powerful opportunity to build a long-term career in economics.
Final Thoughts
The SARB Economics Bursary Programme 2027 is an excellent opportunity for students who want to pursue Economics-related degrees at university level.
It offers financial support to academically strong learners who are in financial need, helping them access quality higher education.
Applicants who meet the requirements should prepare their documents carefully and submit their applications before 30 September 2026 to avoid missing out.
