South African students aged 18–25 can apply for the Absa Fellowship Programme 2026. The programme supports future leaders and entrepreneurs through funding, leadership development, mentorship, and opportunities to create positive change across Africa.
Overview
Every year, thousands of talented young people begin their university journey with big dreams of creating change in their communities, industries, and countries. However, turning those ambitions into reality often requires more than academic ability—it requires leadership development, mentorship, and access to opportunities.
The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 was created to identify and support exceptional young leaders who are ready to shape Africa’s future. More than just a scholarship, the programme is a leadership and entrepreneurship initiative designed to equip students with the skills, mindset, and network needed to become changemakers.
Absa is seeking young people who demonstrate potential, purpose, and passion and who are committed to making a meaningful impact in society.
About the Absa Fellowship Programme
The Absa Fellowship Programme is a prestigious leadership development initiative aimed at nurturing future African leaders.
Each year, only 50 outstanding applicants are selected to join the programme. Fellows receive opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, entrepreneurial thinking, and exposure to networks that can help accelerate their future careers.
The programme aligns with Absa’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, financial inclusion, and youth empowerment across Africa.
Selected fellows are expected to emerge as future leaders in:
- Business and commerce
- Public service
- Social impact initiatives
- Entrepreneurship
- Science and innovation
- Creative industries
What Will Fellows Gain?
The programme goes beyond financial support and focuses on developing well-rounded leaders.
Successful fellows can benefit from:
Leadership Development
Participants receive opportunities to strengthen their leadership capabilities and prepare for future leadership roles.
Entrepreneurship Skills
The programme encourages innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, helping participants develop solutions to challenges facing their communities.
Professional Growth
Fellows gain exposure to personal and professional development opportunities that support long-term career success.
Networking Opportunities
Participants become part of a network of talented young leaders, professionals, and industry experts.
Mentorship and Guidance
Fellows receive support that helps them navigate university life and future career pathways.
Social Impact Focus
The programme empowers students to contribute positively to society and drive sustainable development within Africa.
Who Can Apply?
The Absa Fellowship Programme targets young South Africans who are preparing to begin their university education.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be:
- Between 18 and 25 years old
Academic Requirement
Candidates must have:
- A minimum academic average of 65% or higher
Applicants may submit:
- June 2025 preliminary results, or
- Final matric results
University Requirement
Applicants must be enrolling as:
- First-year undergraduate students at a public university in South Africa in 2026
Eligible Fields of Study
Students must be pursuing a degree in one of the following areas:
Commerce
Including fields such as:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Finance
- Business Management
Humanities and Social Sciences
Including:
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Development Studies
STEM Fields
Including:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Health Sciences
Note: Medical and veterinary studies are excluded.
Creative Arts
Including various creative and artistic disciplines.
Digital and Data Design
Including emerging fields related to technology and digital innovation.
Important Application Rules
Applicants should note that:
- Applications must be submitted by the prospective student
- Parent or guardian details cannot be used
- The student’s own email address and cellphone number must be provided
- Applications submitted using parent or guardian information will not be considered
Absa will communicate directly with applicants throughout the selection process.
Application Process
The selection process consists of four stages.
Phase 1: Pre-Screening
Applications are reviewed to determine whether candidates meet the minimum eligibility requirements.
Phase 2: Psychometric Assessment
Applicants who pass the initial screening will receive:
- A voucher code via email
- Access to the psychometric assessment platform
Phase 3: Shortlisting
Candidates are shortlisted based on their psychometric assessment results.
Phase 4: Interviews
Shortlisted applicants are invited to participate in interviews.
Final fellows are selected after completing all stages successfully.
How to Apply
Step 1
Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 2
Prepare your academic results and personal information.
Step 3
Complete the online application using your own details.
Step 4
Submit your application before the deadline.
Step 5
Monitor your email regularly for updates regarding assessments and interviews.
Applicants are advised to check their spam and junk folders frequently to avoid missing important communication.
Application Deadline
10 September 2025
Late applications will not be accepted.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 |
| Organization | Absa |
| Eligibility | South African First-Year University Students |
| Age Requirement | 18–25 Years |
| Academic Requirement | Minimum 65% Average |
| Study Level | First-Year Undergraduate |
| Eligible Fields | Commerce, Humanities, STEM, Creative Arts, Digital/Data Design |
| Number of Fellows Selected | 50 |
| Application Deadline | 10 September 2025 |
| Location | South Africa |
Conclusion
The Absa Fellowship Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans who aspire to become future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. By combining leadership development, entrepreneurship support, mentorship, and personal growth opportunities, the programme helps talented students build the foundation for long-term success.
With only 50 fellows selected each year, interested applicants are encouraged to prepare strong applications and apply before the 10 September 2025 deadline.
SEO Keywords
Absa Fellowship Programme 2026, Absa scholarship South Africa, leadership programme for students, South Africa undergraduate scholarship, Absa youth programme, entrepreneurship fellowship Africa, first year university scholarship, student leadership programme, South Africa education funding, Absa fellowship application, STEM scholarship South Africa, humanities scholarship Africa, creative arts scholarship, youth leadership opportunities 2026, Absa student funding
