Highlights
Capitec’s “Ignite and Grow” Bursary Program offers comprehensive financial and developmental support for students.
The bursary targets South African citizens studying specific NQF-7+ qualifications like Computer Science, Economics, and Statistics, with strong academic performance.
Applicants must commit to a work-back obligation for each year of funding received and meet strict disclosure requirements.
Capitec Pioneers the Future of Banking with “Ignite and Grow” Bursary Program
Capitec, a trailblazer in the banking sector renowned for its commitment to simplicity, accessibility, and affordability, has announced the launch of its “Ignite and Grow” campaign. This initiative underscores Capitec’s dedication to nurturing emerging talent and fostering innovation within the financial services industry. Fresh off being named “The Coolest Bank by Gen Z’s in 2024,” Capitec continues to solidify its reputation as a forward-thinking institution deeply invested in the next generation of leaders. The “Ignite and Grow” campaign is specifically designed to attract and empower bold, brilliant undergraduates who are eager to make a significant impact in banking, aligning with Capitec’s mission to help clients manage their financial lives better and, in turn, live better.
Empowering the Next Generation: The 2026 External Bursary Programme
At the heart of the “Ignite and Grow” campaign is Capitec’s comprehensive External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This program offers more than just financial assistance; it provides a holistic support system for students pursuing critical fields that will shape the future of banking. Successful applicants will receive extensive financial aid covering full tuition and registration fees, accommodation, textbooks, and meal allowances. This robust support ensures that students can focus wholeheartedly on their academic pursuits without the burden of financial stress.
Beyond monetary support, the bursary includes invaluable work readiness and onboarding experiences, guiding students in their transition from academia to the professional world. The program also emphasizes personal development, helping students build their professional brand and prepare for successful careers. While the bursary is renewable annually, based on academic performance and student engagement, it is crucial for applicants to understand the work-back obligation, requiring recipients to work for Capitec for every year of funding received, or risk refunding the bursary benefits with interest. Full disclosure of any other funding or employment is also a strict requirement to maintain the bursary offer.
Who Capitec is Looking For: Criteria for Aspiring Innovators
Capitec is on the lookout for passionate, adaptable individuals with strong problem-solving skills and a visionary mindset. The bursary program specifically targets South African citizens who are either 2025 matric students, on a gap year after matric in 2024, or currently registered for full-time studies at any DHET/CHE registered tertiary institution in 2025.
Applicants must be pursuing NQF-7 (or higher) qualifications, specifically Bachelor’s Degrees or Honours, in fields deemed critical to the future of banking. These include Actuarial Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, Digital Marketing, Economics, Finance, Mathematics, Quantitative Management, and Statistics.
It is important to note that this opportunity is not open to students pursuing N4/5/6, Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Masters, or Doctoral degrees. Similarly, students enrolled at TVETs, Community Colleges, Graduate/Business Schools, or those undertaking distance learning (like UNISA) are not eligible. Academic excellence is a key criterion, with a minimum average of 65% (or above) required for both Grade 12 (Bachelor’s Pass) and all tertiary academic years (2024 and 2025 so far). Preferred candidates may also align with Capitec’s employment equity objectives and be on track to complete their qualification within the minimum time required.
Navigating the Application Process: Key Dates and Required Documents
Prospective applicants must carefully follow the application instructions and ensure all provided information is accurate and complete, as incomplete or misrepresented applications will be immediately disregarded. The closing date for the Capitec External Bursary 2026 is Wednesday, 03 September 2025, at 2 PM.
Applicants will need to prepare a comprehensive set of documents, all certified and less than three months old. These include:
- For All Applicants: Certified copy of South African ID, certified Parents/Guardian RSA ID or Death Certificate, Proof of Household Income (certified SASSA docs or 3 months Payslips/Company registration documents), and confirmation of NSFAS or other bursary funding (or police affidavit if no prior funding).
- For Matric Scholars (or gap-year after matric): Certified Grade 11 final year-end report, Grade 12 latest (Term 2) school report (certified), and certified copy of valid matric certificate (if applicable).
- For Current Tertiary Students (Undergrad/Honours): Certified copy of valid matric certificate, certified copy of latest/June 2025 Official Academic Transcripts, 2025 Official University Fee Statements (including lease agreement if applicable), and certified Full Tertiary Academic Records for all years of study.
Additional documents may be requested at various stages of the application process, including screening, shortlisting, interviews, and psychometric assessments. Capitec’s commitment to nurturing talent through the “Ignite and Grow” campaign and its External Bursary Programme represents a significant investment in the future of banking, ensuring that the industry benefits from the brightest and most innovative minds South Africa has to offer.
For more details and to submit your application, please visit the official Capitec External Bursary Programme.
