Ninety One Changeblazer
Ninety One Changeblazer Bursary 2027: Fully Funded, Closes 31 August
Role Overview
Global investment manager Ninety One is offering its Changeblazer Bursary for the 2027 academic year, and it is one of the most comprehensive private bursaries open to matriculants right now. If you are a South African citizen under 21, currently in Matric and heading to university in 2027, this bursary covers full tuition, accommodation, meals and learning materials. Applications close on 31 August 2026, so current Grade 12 learners need to act fast.
Ninety One is an active global investment manager that was born in South Africa, originally founded in Cape Town in 1991 as Investec Asset Management before listing separately in 2020. Today it manages investments for clients across the world, with distinctive capabilities in global equities, fixed income, credit and emerging markets.
The Changeblazer Bursary programme is Ninety One’s flagship investment in young South African talent. It is administered by Career Wise, one of the country’s most established bursary management organisations, and is aimed at academically strong learners from households earning less than R600 000 per year. Beyond paying for university, the programme wraps students in support, from private tutoring to mental health services, because Ninety One wants its bursars to finish their degrees, not just start them.
Full tuition fees for your undergraduate degree
Private tutoring and career guidance
Resilience training, mental health support and financial wellbeing sessions
Top performers also receive help getting a driver’s licence and a working wardrobe for their first job
South African citizens under 21 years old in 2027
Currently in Matric and entering first year at a recognised South African university in 2027
Planning to study full time in Business, Finance and Economics, Education, Engineering, Healthcare (excluding Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary Science), Technology and Computer Science, or Psychology
Preferably a minimum overall average of 70% for English and Mathematics or Sciences in Grade 11
Proven financial need with household income below R600 000 per year (special circumstances assessed)
Strong academic record and leadership qualities
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Certified copy of your ID document
Certified Grade 11 final results
Proof of application or registration at a university for 2027 on the institution’s letterhead
Proof of household income: latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, or SASSA/pension slip if applicable
Check that you meet every eligibility requirement listed above
Gather and certify all your supporting documents
Complete the online application on the official Ninety One Changeblazer portal and upload your documents
Use the reference “NINETY ONE” where a promo code or reference is requested
The closing date for the Ninety One Changeblazer Bursary 2027 is 31 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Thousands of talented matriculants qualify for university every year but cannot afford to go, and NSFAS does not cover everyone, especially the so-called missing middle. A full private bursary like the Changeblazer removes every financial barrier at once: fees, food, housing and books.
Just as important, the wraparound support tackles the reasons many first-generation students drop out. For a learner from a household earning under R600 000, this bursary can be the difference between a matric certificate and a full degree in engineering, finance, healthcare or technology, fields where South Africa desperately needs skills.
No. The bursary is specifically for learners currently in Matric who will enter first year in 2027.
Yes. Only Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary Science are excluded. Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and similar fields qualify.
Shortlisted learners attend panel interviews between October and December 2026, with provisional acceptance by December and final confirmation after Matric results in January.
The bursary is administered by Career Wise. Call 011 258 4464 or email info@careerwise.co.za.
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Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
South African citizenship and acceptance or current enrolment at a recognised South African tertiary institution. A strong academic record meeting the minimum requirements and demonstrated financial need where applicable.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Check that you meet every eligibility requirement listed above Gather and certify all your supporting documents Complete the online application on the official Ninety One Changeblazer portal and upload your documents Use the reference “NINETY ONE” where a promo code or reference is requested Submit before 31 August 2026 Apply at Ninety One
About Ninety One Changeblazer
This bursary is offered by Ninety One Changeblazer, based in Cape Town.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Ninety One Changeblazer can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 31 August 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 31 August 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
Similar Opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on Ninety One Changeblazer's careers portal.
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