For many South African learners, getting accepted into university is only part of the journey. The bigger challenge is often finding enough financial support to cover tuition fees, accommodation, books, meals, and other study-related expenses. This is where the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 can make a significant difference.
Designed for talented and ambitious matriculants who plan to begin their first year of university in 2027, this bursary aims to remove financial barriers and help students focus on achieving their academic and career goals. Beyond funding, the programme also provides personal development and support services that can help students thrive throughout their studies.
If you are a Grade 12 learner planning your future, understanding how this bursary works could open doors to opportunities that might otherwise seem out of reach.
What You Should Know First
The Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 is a comprehensive undergraduate bursary sponsored by Ninety One and administered by Career Wise.
Here are the key facts:
- Open to South African matriculants who will start university in 2027.
- Applicants must be under 21 years old in 2027.
- Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials.
- Supports studies in selected fields such as finance, engineering, technology, healthcare, psychology, and education.
- Focuses on students with strong academic results, leadership potential, and financial need.
- Applications close on 31 August 2026.
- Applicants must use the NINETY ONE promo code when applying through Career Wise.
The bursary is specifically intended for first-time university students rather than learners who are already well into their degree studies.
Understanding the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027
The Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 is more than a traditional financial aid programme. It is designed to identify young people with potential and provide them with the resources needed to succeed academically and professionally.
Ninety One is a global investment management company with strong South African roots. Through the Changeblazers programme, the company invests in young people who demonstrate determination, leadership qualities, and the ability to create positive change in their communities.
The programme recognizes that talent exists across all economic backgrounds. Many students have the ability to excel at university but lack the financial resources needed to access higher education. The bursary helps bridge this gap.
Why This Bursary Matters
Higher education remains one of the most effective ways to improve long-term career prospects and earning potential.
However, university costs continue to rise. Many students face challenges such as:
- Tuition fees
- Residence fees
- Transportation costs
- Textbook expenses
- Daily living expenses
Without financial assistance, some students may postpone their studies or abandon their university plans altogether.
The Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 addresses these challenges by offering comprehensive support. This allows students to focus on learning and personal growth rather than worrying constantly about finances.
Additionally, the programme aims to develop future leaders who can contribute positively to South Africa’s economy and society.
Fields of Study Supported by the Bursary
One of the most important aspects of any bursary application is ensuring that your chosen qualification falls within the approved study areas.
The Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 supports students pursuing qualifications in:
Business, Finance and Economics
These fields prepare students for careers in:
- Financial analysis
- Accounting
- Investment management
- Banking
- Business management
- Economic research
Technology and Computer Science
Technology continues to drive innovation across industries.
Supported areas include:
- Software development
- Information technology
- Data science
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence
- Computer engineering
Engineering
Engineering remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after skills sectors.
Examples include:
- Mechanical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Chemical engineering
Healthcare (Excluding Certain Professions)
The bursary supports healthcare-related studies but excludes:
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Veterinary Science
Eligible healthcare fields may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Public health
- Nursing-related programmes
- Health sciences
Psychology
Psychology graduates can contribute in areas such as:
- Mental health support
- Human resources
- Research
- Educational support services
Education
South Africa continues to need skilled educators who can improve learning outcomes across communities.
Education students may benefit from bursary support while preparing for careers in teaching and educational leadership.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
A major advantage of the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 is its comprehensive funding structure.
The bursary covers:
Tuition Fees
University tuition often represents the largest educational expense. The bursary covers approved tuition costs, helping students avoid significant debt.
Accommodation
Residence and accommodation expenses can be substantial, especially for students who relocate to attend university.
Meals
Food expenses are an important part of student life and can create financial pressure for many families.
Learning Materials
Students may receive support for:
- Textbooks
- Study guides
- Academic resources
- Required learning materials
Additional Student Support
The programme goes beyond financial assistance by offering:
- Tutoring support
- Career guidance
- Resilience training
- Mental health support
- Financial wellbeing education
This holistic approach recognizes that student success depends on more than funding alone.
Who Can Apply?
Before preparing an application, students should carefully review the eligibility requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be under the age of 21 in 2027.
- Plan to study full-time at a South African university.
- Intend to pursue an approved field of study.
- Meet university admission requirements.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Show leadership potential.
- Maintain strong academic performance.
The bursary particularly seeks students who combine academic excellence with a desire to make a positive impact in their communities.
Academic Expectations Explained
The programme looks for learners who have demonstrated strong academic potential.
Preferred academic indicators include:
- At least 70% in English.
- At least 70% in Mathematics or Science subjects.
- Consistently strong school performance.
While academic marks are important, they are not the only factor considered.
For example:
A learner with excellent marks but limited involvement in leadership activities may not be as competitive as a student who combines strong academic performance with community service, school leadership, or extracurricular achievements.
The bursary seeks well-rounded candidates.
Demonstrating Leadership Potential
Many students wonder what bursary providers mean when they ask for “leadership potential.”
Leadership does not necessarily mean being a school prefect.
Examples of leadership include:
- Organizing community projects.
- Mentoring younger learners.
- Leading sports teams.
- Participating in student councils.
- Running fundraising initiatives.
- Volunteering in community programmes.
For example, a learner who organizes tutoring sessions for classmates demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and leadership qualities that bursary selectors value.
Understanding Financial Need
Financial need is another key selection factor.
The bursary generally prioritizes applicants from households with annual incomes below R600,000.
However, individual circumstances may also be considered.
Examples of mitigating circumstances include:
- Multiple dependents in a household.
- Single-parent households.
- Unexpected family financial hardships.
- Significant educational expenses affecting household finances.
Applicants should provide accurate and complete financial information to help assess their circumstances fairly.
Documents You Should Prepare Early
Many bursary applications fail because students leave document preparation until the last minute.
To improve your chances, gather the following documents as early as possible:
Identification Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
Academic Records
- Grade 11 results
- Latest Grade 12 results when available
University Application Documents
- Proof of university application
- Acceptance letter if already received
Financial Documents
- Household income verification
- Supporting financial documentation
Additional Supporting Documents
Career Wise may request further information depending on your application.
Preparing these documents early reduces stress and helps avoid submission delays.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 is relatively straightforward when approached systematically.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Review all requirements carefully to ensure you qualify.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Collect academic, identification, and financial documents before starting the application.
Step 3: Apply
APPLY HERE: Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027
Step 4: Use the Correct Promo Code
When registering or applying, enter:
NINETY ONE
This step is essential because it helps route your application to the correct bursary programme.
Step 5: Complete All Sections Carefully
Provide accurate information and answer all questions honestly.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications close on:
31 August 2026
Submitting early is strongly recommended.
ALSO APPLY FOR: Columbus Stainless Bursaries 2027
Common Misunderstandings About Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027
Many applicants misunderstand certain aspects of the programme. Here are some common misconceptions.
“Any university student can apply.”
Not necessarily. The bursary is primarily intended for students entering their first year of university in 2027.
“Only marks matter.”
Academic performance is important, but leadership potential and financial need are also major selection factors.
“I can study any qualification.”
Only approved fields of study are considered.
“The promo code is optional.”
The NINETY ONE promo code is important because it helps identify the correct bursary application route.
“I can submit missing documents later.”
Incomplete applications may reduce your chances of success or lead to disqualification.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Many otherwise qualified applicants make avoidable mistakes.
Watch out for these issues:
- Forgetting to use the NINETY ONE promo code.
- Applying for non-approved study fields.
- Uploading incomplete documentation.
- Providing incorrect household income information.
- Missing the application deadline.
- Writing generic motivation statements.
- Waiting until the final day to submit.
A strong application is usually well-prepared, complete, and submitted early.
Key Takeaways
The most important things to remember about the Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 are:
- It supports first-year university students starting studies in 2027.
- Applicants must be South African citizens under 21 years old in 2027.
- The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials.
- Approved study areas include finance, technology, engineering, healthcare, psychology, and education.
- Academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need are key selection criteria.
- Applications are administered through Career Wise.
- The required promo code is NINETY ONE.
- The closing date is 31 August 2026.
- Early preparation significantly improves application quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apply if I have not yet received a university acceptance letter?
Yes. Proof of university application may be sufficient during the initial application stage, although acceptance documentation may be requested later.
2. Does the bursary cover private universities?
Applicants should carefully review the programme’s terms and conditions. The bursary is intended for study at South African universities, but specific institutional requirements should be confirmed during the application process.
3. Is financial need the only selection factor?
No. The bursary also considers academic performance, leadership potential, and overall suitability for the programme.
4. What happens if I forget to use the NINETY ONE promo code?
Failing to use the required promo code could affect how your application is routed within the Career Wise system. Always double-check before submitting.
Final Thoughts
The Ninety One Changeblazers Bursary 2027 represents an excellent opportunity for ambitious South African matriculants who need financial support to pursue higher education. By covering major study expenses and providing additional developmental support, the programme helps students focus on academic success and future career growth.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements should start preparing early, gather all required documents, demonstrate their leadership experiences clearly, and submit a complete application well before the closing date of 31 August 2026. A well-prepared application could be the first step toward a fully funded university education and a brighter future.
