SAADP Bursary 2026 – For Aspiring Actuaries in SA

If you aim to study Actuarial Science in 2026, the South African Actuarial Development Programme (SAADP) Bursary offers a fully supported pathway to academic and professional success. This initiative focuses on transforming the demographic landscape of the actuarial profession and nurturing high-performing learners from historically disadvantaged communities.

About SAADP

Established in 2003, SAADP is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Black and Coloured students in the South African actuarial profession. Funded by sponsors such as Sasria SOC Ltd, First Rand Foundation, Deloitte, Discovery, and INSETA, SAADP has successfully guided over 200 graduates into industry-ready professionals.

Fields Covered

SAADP sponsors full-time undergraduate degrees in Actuarial Science and related fields, offered at its partner universities: UCT, UP, and WITS. These programs are tailored to deliver the highest number of exam exemptions and academic quality for students entering the actuarial profession.

What the Bursary Covers

Recipients receive a comprehensive bursary package, including:

• Full tuition and registration fees
• Residence fees and meal allowances
• Textbook or academic resource support
• Living allowance to help with day‑to‑day expenses
• Academic tutorials, extra classes, and exam workshops
• Mentorship from senior bursary students and alumni
• Vacation work placements, actuarial seminars, and life skills training

Support is renewable each year based on good academic progress and availability of funding.

Who Can Apply

To qualify for the SAADP Bursary:

• Be a South African citizen
• Identify as Black or Coloured
• Be in Grade 12 or your first, second, or third year of university
• Achieve at least 80% in Mathematics, 80% in English, and 80% in Physical Science in Matric (Mathematical Literacy does not qualify)
• Have applied or intend to study Actuarial Science at UCT, UP, or WITS
• Have written or registered for the National Benchmark Test (NBT)
• Come from a household with financial need
• Have internet access, an active email address, and a working mobile number

Application Requirements

You must submit certified copies of:

• Your ID document
• Grade 11 and Grade 12 June Matric results (or tertiary academic transcripts if applicable)
• Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit, or SASSA letter)
• Motivation letter showing your passion for actuarial science
• Provisional university acceptance letter, if available
• Parent or guardian ID and contact details

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

How to Apply & Key Deadlines

Applications open early in the year and must be submitted via email before the deadline. Outstanding documents may be submitted shortly after, but the initial application must be complete.

The closing date for 2026 applicants is 31 August 2025.

Why the SAADP Bursary Is Important

• Addresses the underrepresentation of Black actuaries in South Africa
• Offers full financial and developmental support from tuition to career-readiness
• Provides industry exposure, exam prep sessions, and mentorship from qualified actuaries and alumni
• Helps build a strong pipeline of diverse actuarial professionals committed to national development

Final Thoughts

The SAADP Bursary Programme 2026 is more than a funding opportunity: it’s a structured support ecosystem for high-achieving learners who aspire to become actuaries. If you’re passionate about mathematics and financial risk, and motivated to make a difference, start preparing your application early and ensure all supporting documents are ready before 31 August 2025.