Capitec Opens 2027 External Bursary Programme for South African University Students

Capitec has officially opened applications for its 2027 External Bursary Programme, offering financial support and career development opportunities to talented South African students pursuing qualifications in business, technology, finance, and related fields.

The bursary is designed to help academically strong students focus on their studies by covering major study costs while providing access to work-readiness programmes, mentorship, and personal development opportunities.

Beyond financial assistance, successful bursary recipients will gain valuable exposure to one of South Africa’s leading digital banks and receive support to prepare for future careers in the banking and financial services industry.

Applications close at 12:00 (midday) on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.


Bursary Overview

Bursary InformationDetails
BursaryCapitec External Bursary Programme
Academic Year2027
SponsorCapitec Bank
Funding TypeRenewable Annual Bursary
Study LevelBachelor’s Degree or Honours (NQF Level 7 or higher)
Study ModeFull-Time
Closing Date12 August 2026 (12:00 Midday)

About Capitec

Capitec is one of South Africa’s leading retail banks, recognised for its innovative approach to banking and customer-focused financial solutions.

The bank invests heavily in developing future professionals by supporting students with financial assistance, workplace readiness programmes, and career development opportunities.

The External Bursary Programme forms part of Capitec’s commitment to developing highly skilled graduates who can contribute to the future of banking, technology, and financial innovation.


About the Capitec External Bursary

The Capitec External Bursary supports students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a passion for innovation, business, technology, and finance.

Successful applicants receive funding for the 2027 academic year while participating in personal development and workplace readiness initiatives.

The bursary is renewable each year based on:

  • Academic performance
  • Student engagement
  • Available sponsor funding

Funding is not automatically guaranteed for the entire duration of a qualification.


What the Bursary Covers

Successful applicants may receive funding for:

  • Full tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation
  • Prescribed textbooks
  • Meal allowance
  • Living stipend (where applicable)

The final funding package will be confirmed in the official bursary award letter issued to successful applicants.


Additional Benefits

Bursary recipients will also benefit from:

  • Workplace readiness training
  • Personal branding and career development
  • Onboarding programmes
  • Exposure to Capitec’s professional environment
  • Networking opportunities
  • Career guidance

Fields of Study Supported

The bursary supports students studying Bachelor’s or Honours qualifications in:

  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Information Systems
  • Digital Marketing
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Mathematics
  • Statistics
  • Quantitative Management
  • Actuarial Science

Students studying quantitative qualifications such as Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Data Science, Computer Science, Econometrics, Quantitative Finance, and related fields may be required to apply through Capitec’s dedicated Quants Bursary Programme instead of the standard External Bursary.

Applicants should carefully review the application instructions before submitting an application.


Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be South African citizens.
  • Be 27 years old or younger on 31 December 2026.
  • Study full-time during 2027.
  • Be registered at a DHET/CHE-recognised university or private higher education institution.
  • Be enrolled for a Bachelor’s Degree or Honours qualification (NQF Level 7 or higher).
  • Have achieved:

Grade 12

  • Bachelor’s Pass.
  • Minimum average of 65%.

University Students

  • Minimum average of 65% for the latest completed academic year.

The bursary is open to:

  • Current university students.
  • 2025 Matric learners intending to study in 2027.
  • Students taking a gap year after completing Matric in 2024.

Who Cannot Apply?

The bursary is not available to:

  • TVET College students.
  • Community College students.
  • Distance-learning students (including UNISA).
  • Students studying:
    • Higher Certificates
    • Diplomas
    • Advanced Diplomas
    • N4–N6 qualifications
    • Master’s Degrees
    • Doctoral Degrees

Selection Process

Applicants may be required to complete:

  • Application screening.
  • Academic shortlisting.
  • Interviews.
  • Psychometric assessments.
  • Employment equity assessment.

Preference may be given to applicants who:

  • Meet Capitec’s Employment Equity objectives.
  • Are completing their qualification within the minimum prescribed study period.

Work-Back Obligation

Successful bursary recipients must agree to a work-back obligation.

This means graduates will be required to work for Capitec for a period related to the years of funding received.

Failure to meet the work-back obligation may result in repayment of bursary benefits, including applicable interest, as outlined in the bursary agreement.


Skills and Qualities Capitec Looks For

Capitec is looking for students who demonstrate:

  • Academic Excellence
  • Critical Thinking
  • Problem Solving
  • Learning Agility
  • Innovation
  • Leadership Potential
  • Collaboration
  • Curiosity
  • Accountability
  • Strong Communication Skills

Why Apply?

The Capitec External Bursary offers:

  • Comprehensive financial support.
  • Career development opportunities.
  • Personal growth programmes.
  • Workplace readiness training.
  • Exposure to one of South Africa’s leading banks.
  • Access to future graduate employment opportunities.
  • Support throughout your university journey.

Application Tips

To improve your application:

  • Apply before the deadline.
  • Ensure your academic results meet the minimum requirements.
  • Prepare certified copies of your ID and academic records.
  • Complete all sections of the online application accurately.
  • Review whether your qualification falls under the standard bursary or the Quantitative Bursary.
  • Monitor your email regularly for updates.

Where to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official Capitec Bursary Application Portal.

Students studying qualifying quantitative degrees should apply through the dedicated Capitec Quants Bursary Portal, as instructed in the application guidelines.


Closing Date

📅 Closing Date: Wednesday, 12 August 2026

🕛 Time: 12:00 (Midday)

Late applications are unlikely to be accepted.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply?

South African citizens aged 27 years or younger who will study full-time towards a Bachelor’s or Honours qualification during 2027.

2. What does the bursary cover?

The bursary may cover:

  • Tuition
  • Registration
  • Accommodation
  • Textbooks
  • Meal allowance
  • Living stipend (where applicable)

3. Which qualifications qualify?

Bachelor’s and Honours qualifications in approved business, finance, technology, and related fields.

4. Can TVET students apply?

No. The bursary is only available to students enrolled at DHET/CHE-recognised universities or private higher education institutions.

5. Is the bursary renewable?

Yes. Funding may be renewed annually based on academic performance, engagement, and available funding.

6. Is there a work-back requirement?

Yes. Successful bursary recipients must work for Capitec for a period linked to the years of bursary funding received.

7. When do applications close?

Applications close at 12:00 on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.


Editorial Policy

This article has been independently prepared using information published by Capitec Bank regarding the 2027 External Bursary Programme. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Capitec Bank. Applicants should verify all eligibility requirements, funding conditions, work-back obligations, and application procedures through the official Capitec Bursary Portal before applying.


Sources and References

  • Capitec Bank – External Bursary Programme 2027
  • Capitec Careers and Student Opportunities
  • Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
  • Council on Higher Education (CHE)
  • National Qualifications Framework (NQF)

Phindile Zwane

Author Information: Phindile Zwane shares tips and guides on learnerships and bursaries to help students to discover the best opportunities for their future.The content supports informed decision-making and aligns with South Africa’s national skills development priorities.Contact on: info@sseta.co.za Website: https://www.sseta.co.za

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