Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary. The Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 is an excellent opportunity for high-achieving South African learners who are passionate about mathematics, finance, data analysis, and problem-solving. The programme is designed to support talented students who want to pursue a university qualification in Actuarial Science and eventually build a professional career as an actuary.
Old Mutual is a well-established financial services organisation, and its bursary programme provides more than financial assistance. Successful candidates can receive academic support, workplace exposure, development opportunities, and a potential pathway into employment after completing their studies.
Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary
The Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary is aimed at exceptional students who demonstrate strong academic performance and have the potential to succeed in the demanding actuarial profession.
Actuarial Science combines mathematics, statistics, economics, finance, and business to assess financial risks and help organisations make informed decisions. Because actuarial studies can be challenging and university costs can be significant, financial support can make a major difference to students and their families.
The Old Mutual bursary is intended to support students throughout their degree while also exposing them to the professional environment.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
Successful applicants can receive comprehensive financial and career support. Depending on the programme conditions, the bursary may cover major study-related expenses, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Prescribed study materials
- Return travel expenses for students studying away from home
- Financial support for the duration of the degree
- Additional incentives for strong academic performance
- Vacation work opportunities
- Networking and personal development opportunities
- Career guidance and workplace exposure
- Potential employment opportunities after graduation
This combination of financial assistance and professional development makes the programme particularly valuable for students who want to establish a long-term career in financial services.
Who Can Apply for the Old Mutual Bursary?
Applicants must meet the programme’s academic and citizenship requirements. The bursary is primarily intended for talented South African learners who have demonstrated excellent performance at school.
Generally, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Achieve at least 80% in Mathematics.
- Obtain at least 60% for English Home Language or 70% for English First Additional Language.
- Achieve a minimum overall average of 70% in other subjects.
- Have applied to or be studying Actuarial Science at an eligible university.
- Demonstrate a genuine commitment to qualifying as an actuary.
- Be willing to pursue career opportunities with Old Mutual after completing studies.
Students should carefully check the latest official application information before submitting their application because eligibility requirements can change.
Eligible Universities
Applicants must have applied to or be studying Actuarial Science at one of the participating universities listed by Old Mutual. These 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
Students should ensure that their chosen programme and university meet the bursary’s requirements before applying.
How to Apply for the Old Mutual Actuarial Bursary
The application process is completed online through the Old Mutual careers portal. Candidates should prepare their information and supporting documents before starting the application.
The general application process includes downloading and completing the bursary motivation form, submitting the online application, completing a gamified assessment, and uploading a one-page CV.
The gamified assessment is designed to evaluate applicants’ abilities and characteristics relevant to the programme. Shortlisted applicants may subsequently be required to complete psychometric assessments and participate in a virtual interview.
Candidates should provide accurate information throughout the application process. Incomplete or incorrect applications may not be considered.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the required supporting documents before submitting their application. These may include:
- A one-page CV
- Completed bursary motivation form
- Grade 10, Grade 11 and Grade 12 school reports, where applicable
- Matric certificate, if already available
- University acceptance letter, if applicable
- Academic transcript for current university students
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Parental or guardian consent for applicants under 18
Applicants should ensure that documents are clear, complete, and submitted according to the instructions provided during the online application.
Important Selection Criteria
Academic performance is an important part of the selection process, but applicants may also be assessed on other qualities. Old Mutual looks for students who show strong numerical ability, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, communication skills, resilience, accountability, and financial awareness.
Actuarial Science requires students to deal with complex mathematical and financial concepts. Therefore, candidates should demonstrate that they can work carefully with numbers, analyse information, solve problems, and remain committed when facing difficult academic challenges.
Preference may also be given to candidates from under-represented groups and students who demonstrate financial need, subject to the programme’s selection criteria.
Closing Date
The stated closing date for the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 is 30 May 2026. Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline and avoid waiting until the final day.
According to the supplied programme information, candidates who do not receive feedback by 31 July 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful.
Why Choose Actuarial Science?
Actuarial Science can lead to a highly specialised career in finance, insurance, investments, risk management, consulting, and related industries. Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to understand financial risks and help organisations plan for the future.
For students who enjoy mathematics and analytical problem-solving, actuarial studies can provide an exciting professional pathway. However, the qualification requires dedication, consistent academic performance, and strong technical skills.
The Old Mutual bursary can therefore provide an important foundation for talented students who want to enter this field without carrying the full financial burden of university studies.
Conclusion
The Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 offers high-performing South African learners an opportunity to pursue Actuarial Science while receiving substantial financial and professional support. From tuition and accommodation assistance to study materials, vacation work, networking, and career development, the programme can help students progress from university into the workplace.
