Old Mutual is inviting high-performing South African students to apply for its 2026 Actuarial Science Bursary Programme. Discover eligibility requirements, bursary benefits, participating universities, and application details for this prestigious fully funded opportunity.
Introduction
Old Mutual has officially opened applications for its highly sought-after Actuarial Science Bursary Programme 2026, offering exceptional South African learners the opportunity to pursue fully funded university studies while building pathways into one of the country’s most prestigious financial careers.
The bursary programme is aimed at high-achieving learners who are either studying or planning to study Actuarial Science at selected South African universities. Beyond financial support, the programme also provides mentorship, vacation work opportunities, professional development, and guaranteed employment prospects after graduation.
Applications for the bursary programme close on 30 May 2026.
A Prestigious Opportunity in the Financial Services Industry
Actuarial Science remains one of the most academically demanding and financially rewarding professions in South Africa and globally.
Actuaries play a critical role in helping businesses and financial institutions manage risk through advanced mathematics, statistics, and financial modeling. Their expertise is used in industries such as:
- Insurance
- Banking
- Investments
- Healthcare
- Pensions
- Risk management
As demand for analytical and data-driven decision-making continues growing, actuarial professionals remain highly sought after within the financial services industry.
Old Mutual’s bursary programme is designed to identify and support talented young South Africans who demonstrate strong mathematical ability and the potential to succeed within the profession.
Supporting Future African Talent
Old Mutual describes itself as a company committed to building Africa’s future through investment in local talent and long-term career development.
The financial services group operates across 14 countries and offers a broad range of financial products and services to retail and corporate customers throughout the continent.
The bursary programme forms part of the company’s broader strategy to develop highly skilled professionals who can contribute to both the organisation and the wider African economy.
Comprehensive Financial Support for Students
One of the most attractive aspects of the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary is the extensive financial support offered to successful applicants.
The bursary covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Study materials
- Meals
- Accommodation in residence
- Return flights home for students studying away from their hometowns
Students receive support for the full duration of their university degree, helping reduce the financial burden often associated with tertiary education.
In addition, students who consistently achieve excellent academic results may qualify for additional incentives and rewards.
More Than Just Financial Assistance
The programme extends beyond traditional bursary funding by offering long-term professional support and career development opportunities.
Successful bursary recipients may benefit from:
- Vacation work opportunities
- Networking exposure
- Personal development programmes
- Professional mentorship
- Career guidance
- Guaranteed employment opportunities after graduation
This holistic approach helps students not only complete their studies but also transition successfully into the professional working environment.
Universities Included in the Programme
Applicants must either have applied to or already be studying at one of the approved universities offering actuarial-related programmes.
Participating institutions include:
- North-West University
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Free State
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
These institutions are recognised for offering strong mathematical and actuarial science programmes that align with professional actuarial qualification pathways.
Academic Requirements for Applicants
Due to the highly competitive nature of the programme, applicants are expected to demonstrate exceptional academic performance, particularly in Mathematics.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following minimum academic requirements:
- At least 80% in Mathematics
- 60% for English Home Language
OR - 70% for English First Additional Language
- 70% for all other subjects
Applicants must also demonstrate commitment to qualifying as actuaries and eventually working for Old Mutual after completing their studies.
A Competitive Selection Process
The application process for the bursary programme involves several stages aimed at identifying academically strong and well-rounded candidates.
Applicants are required to:
- Complete the bursary motivation form
- Submit an online application
- Complete a gamified assessment
- Upload required supporting documents
The gamified assessment is designed to evaluate applicants in an interactive format and is not timed.
Shortlisted candidates will then proceed to psychometric assessments, after which the top finalists will be invited to participate in virtual interviews.
Final offers will be confirmed once successful candidates provide their final matric results and proof of university acceptance into an approved programme.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must prepare several supporting documents as part of the application process.
These include:
- One-page CV
- Completed bursary motivation form
- Grade 10 to Grade 12 term 1 school reports
- Matric certificate (if applicable)
- University acceptance or conditional acceptance letter
- Full academic transcript for current university students
- Certified copy of ID
Old Mutual has emphasized that incomplete applications will not be considered.
Preference for Under-Represented Groups
As part of its transformation and employment equity objectives, Old Mutual stated that preference may be given to:
- Candidates from under-represented designated groups
- Candidates living with disabilities
- Applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
- Students demonstrating financial need
This reflects ongoing efforts to improve access to opportunities within highly specialised professions such as actuarial science.
Why Actuarial Science Remains Highly Valuable
Actuarial Science continues to rank among the most respected and financially rewarding professions worldwide.
Professionals in this field are highly valued because they combine expertise in:
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Financial analysis
- Risk modeling
- Data interpretation
With industries becoming increasingly data-driven, actuarial skills are now relevant beyond traditional insurance environments and are increasingly used in technology, healthcare, investments, and analytics sectors.
A Career Pathway Into Financial Leadership
For many students, the Old Mutual bursary programme represents more than financial assistance. It provides access to a long-term professional career pathway within one of Africa’s leading financial institutions.
The combination of academic funding, mentorship, workplace exposure, and guaranteed employment opportunities creates a strong foundation for future career growth.
Students who successfully complete actuarial qualifications often progress into careers involving:
- Financial modeling
- Investment analysis
- Risk consulting
- Insurance product development
- Strategic finance
- Executive leadership
Important Application Deadline
Applications for the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary Programme close on:
30 May 2026 at 23:59
Interested learners are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and submit complete applications before the closing date.
For academically strong South African students passionate about mathematics, analytics, and financial problem-solving, the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 could become a life-changing opportunity that opens doors to a highly respected and rewarding profession.
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