Sanlam Actuarial Bursary Offers Funded Pathway Into Actuarial Science for 2027 Studies

For students prepared to commit to years of intensive study and professional training, Sanlam’s actuarial bursary offers a direct route from university to permanent employment in one of South Africa’s most specialised financial careers.

The bursaries are offered through Sanlam Life and Savings, the group’s retail and corporate-focused cluster that supports long-term financial planning and actuarial excellence in South Africa. The programme forms part of Sanlam’s long-standing investment in developing scarce skills within the actuarial profession.

Bursaries Open to Matriculants and Current Students

Sanlam confirmed that the bursaries are available to two main groups. The first includes South African citizens currently studying Actuarial Science full time, specifically students in their first, second, or third year of undergraduate studies. The second group targets school-leaving learners who intend to study Actuarial Science in 2027.

For current university students, the company is looking for strong academic performance, discipline, and a clear commitment to completing actuarial training. For matriculants, Sanlam has set a high academic threshold, including above 90 percent in Mathematics and an overall A aggregate, reflecting the demands of the profession.

What the Sanlam Actuarial Bursary Covers

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial and academic support. According to Sanlam, the bursary covers tuition and accommodation fees, as well as a general allowance for books and living expenses.

Beyond financial support, bursary holders gain access to mentorship and academic guidance from Sanlam actuarial professionals, structured vacation work, and networking opportunities within the group. Sanlam has also indicated that bursary recipients are offered guaranteed employment after completing their studies, along with continued support toward actuarial board examinations.

The programme further exposes students to work rotation opportunities across multiple business areas, giving them insight into how actuarial skills are applied across insurance, corporate finance, and retail financial services.

Application Requirements and Selection Process

Applicants are required to submit a full set of academic documents, including transcripts, proof of registration, and certified copies of identity documents. Both students and matriculants must also submit a detailed motivation, explaining their understanding of the actuarial profession, their reasons for choosing actuarial science, and why they believe they are suited to the field.

Sanlam has noted that bursaries are awarded on merit, while also taking the group’s employment equity plan into account as part of its broader transformation strategy.

All applications must be completed online. Sanlam has confirmed that applications submitted via email or after the closing date will not be considered.

Closing Date Confirmed

Applications for the Sanlam Actuarial Bursary Programme close on 30 June 2026. Candidates who do not receive feedback by 1 October 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful.