The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open for applications, offering more than just financial assistance—it’s a transformative journey for South Africa’s brightest young minds. Rooted in Absa’s mission of financial inclusion, innovation, and sustainable growth, this prestigious fellowship equips future leaders with the tools, mentorship, and support to create lasting impact in their communities and industries.
🌟 What Makes the Absa Fellowship Programme Unique?
The fellowship is not just an academic scholarship. Each year, only 50 exceptional students are selected to join an elite network of changemakers who are empowered to:
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Drive economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship.
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Lead with integrity in business, public service, and community development.
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Tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges with creativity and resilience.
Through mentorship, leadership development, and structured support, fellows graduate with more than a degree—they gain the confidence and skills to transform industries and societies.
✅ Who Can Apply for the Absa Fellowship 2026?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Age: Between 18 and 25 years old.
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Academic Record: A minimum pass mark of 65%. Applicants may submit June 2025 preliminary results or final matric results.
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Field of Study: Must be enrolling as a first-year undergraduate student at a public South African university in 2026 in one of the following disciplines:
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Commerce
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Humanities and Social Sciences
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STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), including Health Sciences (excluding medicine and veterinary studies)
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Creative Arts
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Digital/Data Design
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⚠️ Applications must be submitted by the student applicant, not by a parent or guardian.
📝 Application Process for 2026
The Absa Fellowship uses a four-phase selection process:
Phase 1: Pre-Screening
Applications are checked against the eligibility requirements.
Phase 2: Psychometric Assessment
Eligible applicants will receive a voucher code by email (Absafellowship@fundi.co.za) to complete an online psychometric test.
Phase 3: Shortlisting
Applicants are shortlisted based on academic results and assessment performance.
Phase 4: Interviews
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a personal interview to demonstrate their values, vision, and leadership potential.
🎓 Why Apply for the Absa Fellowship?
Becoming an Absa Fellow offers more than just funding. Benefits include:
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Financial Support for tuition and study-related expenses.
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Leadership Development through structured training programmes.
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Mentorship from business and community leaders.
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Networking Opportunities with fellow changemakers across South Africa.
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A lifelong platform to create positive community impact.
This programme ensures graduates leave not only with academic qualifications, but also with the skills, mindset, and support system to lead Africa into the future.
📌 Important Tips for Applicants
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Check your email inbox regularly (including spam/junk folders) to avoid missing important updates.
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Apply early—competition is intense with thousands of applications received each year.
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Prepare for interviews by clearly articulating your goals, values, and vision as a future leader.
🚀 Conclusion
The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 is a rare opportunity for ambitious young South Africans to receive academic funding, leadership training, mentorship, and a platform for real impact. If you are between 18 and 25, academically driven, and passionate about shaping the future of South Africa, this programme is your chance to make it happen.
👉 Apply today for the Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 and unlock your potential to lead, innovate, and create lasting change.
Application Form
