Applications for the 2026 Absa Fellowship Programme are officially open! The application window runs from 1 to 10 September 2025, offering a unique opportunity for ambitious young South Africans to develop their leadership, entrepreneurial, and professional skills. Don’t miss out—this programme could be your gateway to becoming a changemaker in your community and industry.
About the Absa Fellowship Programme
The Absa Fellowship Programme goes beyond a traditional academic scholarship. It is a transformative initiative that equips emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to drive innovation, sustainability, and growth across Africa.
Aligned with Absa’s commitment to financial inclusion and community development, the programme fosters entrepreneurship, leadership, and social impact. Each year, 50 exceptional applicants are selected as fellows, gaining mentorship, professional exposure, and the tools to make a meaningful difference in their chosen fields.
Who Should Apply?
Absa is seeking young, emerging leaders who demonstrate potential, passion, and purpose. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 18–25 years old
- Academic Record: A pass mark of 65% or higher (submit June 2025 preliminary results or final matric results)
- Field of Study: Must be enrolling as a first-year undergraduate student at a South African public university in 2026. Eligible fields include:
- Commerce
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Science (including health sciences, excluding medical or veterinary studies)
- Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Creative Arts
- Digital/Data Design
Important: Applications must be submitted in the name of the prospective student, not a parent or guardian.
How the Application Process Works
The Absa Fellowship Programme selection process involves four key phases:
- Pre-Screening:
Applications are first reviewed to ensure applicants meet the minimum requirements. - Psychometric Assessment:
Successful candidates from phase 1 will receive a voucher code via email from Absafellowship@fundi.co.za to complete the assessment. - Shortlisting:
Candidates are shortlisted based on their psychometric assessment scores. - Interviews:
Shortlisted applicants are invited for an interview, giving them the chance to showcase their leadership potential and ambitions.
APPLY FOR THE ABSA FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Tip: Check your email regularly, including your spam or junk folder, to avoid missing updates.
Important Application Guidelines
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2025 (no late submissions will be accepted)
- Submission Requirements: Applications must be completed using the prospective student’s own details. Applications in a parent or guardian’s name will not be considered.
- Equal Opportunity: Applications are open to all eligible students; no preference is given to relatives of Absa staff.
- Privacy Notice: Only the programme’s service providers may contact applicants regarding their submission. Absa will not engage with third parties about your application.
Why Apply?
The Absa Fellowship Programme provides:
- Leadership Development: Gain essential skills to lead in your field and community
- Entrepreneurial Exposure: Learn how to drive innovation and sustainable growth
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other emerging leaders and mentors
- Career-Launching Experience: Build a strong foundation for future academic and professional success
Apply now and take the first step toward becoming a future leader with the 2026 Absa Fellowship Programme.
