Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship 2026 – Transforming Education in South Africa
Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship 2026 – Transforming Education in South Africa
Are you a high-achieving, financially disadvantaged South African student looking for full support for your tertiary education? The Old Mutual Investment Group’s Imfundo Trust Scholarship may be your gateway to pursuing careers in high-demand fields like data science, engineering, and finance. With strong backing from Old Mutual and StudyTrust, this scholarship targets equitable access and transformative growth, particularly for Black female students.
What Is the Imfundo Trust?
Administered by StudyTrust and established in 2011 by the Old Mutual Investment Group
“Imfundo” means “education” in Nguni languages—aptly reflecting the Trust’s mission
Committed to supporting Black South African students—especially rural or township students, with emphasis on women
Fields of Study Supported
Undergraduate (1st & 2nd years, 2026 intake):
Business, Commerce, Finance, Management Sciences
Computer Science & related (e.g., Computational Thinking)
Data Science
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
Postgraduate:
Climate Studies only
keywords: data science scholarship South Africa, engineering bursary 2026, investment industry support.
What the Scholarship Covers
This is a fully-funded scholarship, covering:
Tuition fees
Accommodation
Prescribed textbooks
Meals and living stipends
Psychosocial support via ICAS
Mentoring and career readiness, including internship opportunities
These comprehensive benefits align with Old Mutual’s goal of nurturing well-rounded investment-sector professionals
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the 2026 intake, applicants must:
Be a South African citizen
Identify as Black (African, Coloured, Indian), with preference for women
Be in Grade 12, or entering 1st or 2nd year in 2026 (first-year exception applies to Climate Studies postgraduates)
Achieve minimum academic scores:
Grade 12: ≥ 70% average, ≥ 70% in Mathematics, ≥ 70% in English FAL or 60% in English HL
Current students: ≥ 65% average in most recent exams
Preferably come from rural or township backgrounds
Application Timeline & Process
Opens on May 1, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025
Apply online via StudyTrust’s application platform
Submit support documentation including:
Certified ID copy
Grade 11/12 results or university transcripts
Proof of household income (payslips, affidavits, bank statements, SASSA document, parent’s death certificate if applicable)
Shortlisted candidates invited to interview by Imfundo Trust board
Final recipients selected based on academic merit, financial need, interview outcome, and demographic objectives
Why This Scholarship Matters
Full funding ensures students can focus on studies without financial stress
Comprehensive support: academic, psychosocial, and professional development
Mentorship & internships help transition scholars into industry roles
Promotes diversity and transformation in underrepresented sectors
Strong ROI: Imfundo Trust fosters future leaders in investment, data and technology fields
Key Tips for a Strong Application
Academic excellence: Confirm your marks meet the minimum thresholds
Financial evidence: Upload clear, comprehensive income documents
Highlight context: Describe rural/township background and community leadership
Motivation statement: Show genuine interest in the investment sector and your field
Prepare for interview: Be ready to discuss your goals, values, and leadership potential
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✅ Final Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Window | 01 May–30 Sept 2025 |
| Eligibility | Grade 12 or 1st/2nd year students; Black, SA cit.; 70%/65% average |
| Fields Funded | Business, Finance, Data Science, Engineering; Climate Studies (postgrad) |
| Coverage | Tuition, accommodation, books, meals, living stipend |
| Support Provided | Mentorship, psychosocial services, internships |
Apply Now
Visit the StudyTrust application portal before 30 September 2025 to submit your application. Don’t miss this transformative opportunity to pursue a financed degree in a high-impact field.