The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 is open for applications, and will provide scholarships and a development programme for future African leaders.
Applications are open for the Absa Fellowship Programme 2026, a prestigious scholarship initiative designed to support talented young South Africans who demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence and a passion for creating positive change.
More than just a bursary or scholarship, the Absa Fellowship Programme aims to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders who will help shape Africa’s future.
About The Absa Fellowship Programme
The Absa Fellowship Programme is a transformative leadership and scholarship initiative that seeks to empower young people with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to drive economic growth, innovation and sustainability across Africa.
Each year, only 50 outstanding applicants are selected to join the programme. Successful fellows receive support that extends beyond financial assistance, helping them develop as future leaders in business, government, entrepreneurship and society.
The programme aligns with Absa’s commitment to financial inclusion, leadership development and sustainable growth across the continent.
Who Should Apply?
Absa is looking for ambitious young South Africans who show strong leadership potential, a commitment to making a positive impact and a desire to contribute to Africa’s development.
Successful candidates are expected to become future changemakers who will help address challenges, create opportunities and lead innovation in their communities and industries.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Absa Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old.
Academic Performance
Candidates must have achieved an average of at least 65%.
Applicants may submit either:
- Their June 2025 preliminary examination results, or
- Their final Matric results
Field Of Study
Applicants must be planning to enrol as first-year undergraduate students at a South African public university in 2026 and study in one of the following fields:
Commerce
Degrees related to business, economics, accounting and finance.
Humanities And Social Sciences
Programmes focused on society, culture, development and human behaviour.
Science, Technology, Engineering And Mathematics (STEM)
Including:
- Science qualifications
- Health science programmes (excluding medical and veterinary studies)
- Technology-related degrees
- Engineering qualifications
- Mathematics-related fields
Creative Arts
Qualifications in creative and artistic disciplines.
Digital And Data Design
Programmes focused on digital innovation, technology and data-driven design.
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted in the name of the prospective student who intends to study at university.
Applications submitted using the details of a parent, guardian or another individual will not be accepted.
Absa Fellowship Application Process
The selection process consists of several stages designed to identify high-potential candidates.
Phase 1: Pre-Screening
Applications are reviewed to determine whether applicants meet the minimum eligibility requirements.
Phase 2: Psychometric Assessment
Applicants who successfully pass the pre-screening stage will receive a voucher code via email from the programme administrators.
The voucher will provide access to a psychometric assessment, which forms part of the selection process.
Phase 3: Shortlisting
Candidates are shortlisted based on their psychometric assessment results.
Phase 4: Interviews
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in interviews, where they will have the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership potential, ambition and suitability for the programme.
Important Application Information
Applicants are encouraged to monitor their email accounts regularly throughout the selection process.
It is also important to check spam and junk mail folders to ensure that important communication is not missed.
Application Guidelines
Prospective applicants should note the following:
- Applications close on 10 September 2025.
- Late applications will not be considered.
- All application details must belong to the applicant.
- Applicants must use their own email address, cellphone number and personal information.
- Applications submitted using a parent or guardian’s details will be disqualified.
- No preference is given to applicants who are related to or connected with Absa employees.
- The programme is open to all eligible students who meet the requirements.
Why Apply For The Absa Fellowship Programme?
The Absa Fellowship Programme offers talented young South Africans an opportunity to access financial support, leadership development and valuable personal growth opportunities.
Beyond funding, fellows become part of a network of future leaders committed to driving innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development across Africa.
For students with strong academic results, leadership potential and a passion for making a difference, the Absa Fellowship Programme could be the first step towards an impactful and successful future.
HOW TO APPLY
CLICK HERE FOR FULL DETAILS ON THE ABSA WEBSITE