Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary Programme 2026
Ninety One, a leading global investment manager rooted in South Africa, is committed to empowering talented young South Africans through education. Through its Changeblazers Bursary Programme, Ninety One offers more than just financial aid — it provides holistic support aimed at nurturing the next generation of professionals who will make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s economy and society.
This bursary is tailored for matriculants entering their
first year of university in 2026. It is designed not only to alleviate the
financial burden of tertiary education but also to develop well-rounded,
confident, and capable graduates ready to thrive in their chosen careers and
become change-makers in their communities.
What the Ninety One Bursary Offers
Recognising that financial assistance alone is not enough,
the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary offers comprehensive, full-support
funding. Recipients can expect:
- Full
coverage of tuition fees at an accredited South African public university.
- Accommodation
and meals,
ensuring students have a safe and conducive environment to live and study.
- Learning
materials, such
as prescribed textbooks and required academic tools.
- Private
tutoring for
additional academic support in challenging subjects.
- Career
guidance and mentorship, to help students make informed professional decisions.
- Mental
health and emotional wellness support, acknowledging the challenges many students face
in adjusting to university life.
- Resilience
training to
build personal strength and adaptability.
- Financial
wellbeing sessions to equip students with lifelong money management skills.
In addition to this extensive support, Ninety One offers incentives
to top-performing students in the programme:
- Driver’s
license support
in the final year of study — a vital asset for employability.
- A
graduation gift
— a start-up working wardrobe, giving students the confidence to step into
the professional world.
Who Should Apply?
Ninety One is looking for motivated, high-achieving
learners from under-resourced communities who are passionate about creating
a better South Africa through their chosen field. Applicants must:
- Be South
African citizens.
- Be
currently in Grade 12 (matric) and entering their first year of
university in 2026.
- Demonstrate
strong academic performance and potential.
- Have
a household income that shows financial need.
- Display
leadership potential, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive
impact in society.
Fields of Study Covered
Ninety One’s bursary programme supports a range of high-impact
and in-demand fields aligned with South Africa’s development priorities. These
include:
Business, Finance and Economics
This includes degrees such as BCom (Accounting, Finance,
Economics), Actuarial Science, and Investment Management — ideal for students
interested in shaping the financial future of the country.
Technology & Computer Science
Fields like Software Engineering, Data Science, Artificial
Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Information Systems are crucial in the fourth
industrial revolution.
Engineering
Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, and other
Engineering disciplines essential for national infrastructure and industrial
development.
Healthcare (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary
Science)
Degrees such as Nursing, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy,
Medical Laboratory Science, and Public Health.
Psychology
Supporting mental health and wellbeing through counselling,
clinical psychology, and research.
Education
Particularly in scarce skills subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and Technology, where quality educators are urgently needed.
How to Apply
If you're ready to be a #Changeblazer and begin your
journey toward making a difference in South Africa, here’s how you can apply:
- Visit
the Bursary Application Page
Applications are processed via CareerWise,
the bursary management partner of Ninety One. Visit www.careerwise.co.za and click on “Apply Now”.
- Register
or Log In
Create a profile or log in if you
already have one. Make sure to complete your profile with accurate academic,
personal, and financial details.
- Select
‘Ninety One Bursary’
Once logged in, search for the Ninety
One Changeblazers Bursary Programme and begin your application.
- Submit
Required Documents
You’ll be required to upload:
- A
certified copy of your South African ID
- Your
latest Grade 12 results or most recent academic transcript
- Proof
of household income
- A
motivation letter (if requested)
- Any
additional documents specified on the platform
- Submit
Before the Deadline
Applications typically close in late September, but it’s best to check the website for the exact deadline each year.
Why Choose Ninety One?
Ninety One isn’t just offering a bursary — they are investing in your future. By joining this programme, you’ll gain access to a supportive community, world-class resources, and development opportunities that extend beyond graduation. This is your chance to pursue your dreams, shape your future, and play a role in transforming South Africa.
If you are a driven matriculant from a disadvantaged
background with a passion for your studies and a desire to make a real impact,
the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary Programme is designed with you in mind.
Take the leap — apply today, and begin your journey as a future leader and
change-maker in South Africa.