A fully funded actuarial science bursary with guaranteed employment after graduation is the kind of opportunity that can change everything. Old Mutual’s 2026 bursary is aimed at strong Maths learners and students who want more than tuition support — it opens the door to mentorship, industry exposure, and a real career path in one of South Africa’s biggest financial services groups.
Old Mutual has opened applications for its Actuarial Science Bursary 2026, giving high-performing South African learners and students a chance to study with full financial support and build a direct path into one of the country’s most competitive professions.
The bursary covers major study costs, includes mentorship and vacation work, and offers guaranteed employment after graduation for successful candidates. Applications close on 30 May 2026.
For ambitious students who excel in Mathematics, this is more than financial aid. It is a long-term career opportunity.
If becoming an actuary has been your goal, this bursary could be one of the strongest opportunities available this year.
What makes this bursary stand out?
The Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary is designed for students who want to pursue actuarial science at selected South African universities and grow into the profession with structured support.
Unlike many funding opportunities that only cover tuition, this bursary is built to support students throughout their academic journey and into the workplace.
That means funding, development, exposure, and employment all in one programme.
What does the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 cover?
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive study support that may include:
- Tuition fees
- Residence accommodation
- Meals
- Study materials
- Return flights home for students studying away from home
Old Mutual also notes that students who perform exceptionally well may qualify for additional incentives.
That added performance-based support makes the bursary even more attractive for students who are serious about excelling.
Which extra benefits do successful bursary recipients get?
The value of this bursary goes beyond paying for university costs.
Selected students can also benefit from:
- Vacation work opportunities
- Networking with industry professionals
- Personal and professional development
- Mentorship and career guidance
- Guaranteed employment at Old Mutual after graduation
This matters because actuarial science is not only academically demanding, but also highly competitive. Early access to professional support can make a major difference.
Which universities are eligible for this bursary?
Applicants must be studying at, or planning to study at, one of the approved universities in South Africa.
These include:
- University of Cape Town
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- Stellenbosch University
- North-West University
- University of the Free State
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
Old Mutual notes that UKZN is no longer ASSA accredited, which is an important detail for students comparing study options.
Who can apply for the Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026?
To qualify, applicants must meet the bursary’s academic and general eligibility requirements.
You must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have at least 80% in Mathematics
- Have 60% in English Home Language or 70% in English First Additional Language
- Have at least 70% in all other subjects
- Be accepted at, or applying to, one of the listed universities
- Be committed to qualifying as an actuary
- Be willing to work for Old Mutual after graduation
These requirements make it clear that the bursary is aimed at students with strong academic performance and a serious long-term interest in actuarial science.
What documents do you need for the application?
Applicants must prepare the required supporting documents before submitting the online application.
These include:
- A one-page CV
- Completed bursary motivation form
- Grade 10 to Grade 12 school reports
- Matric certificate, if available
- University acceptance letter, if available
- Academic transcript for current students
- Certified copy of South African ID
Submitting everything correctly is important because incomplete applications will not be considered.
How does the application process work?
The application process includes several stages, so applicants should be ready for more than just uploading documents.
Candidates must:
- Complete the online application through the Old Mutual careers portal
- Download and complete the bursary motivation form
- Submit a one-page CV
- Complete a gamified assessment
- Complete psychometric assessments if shortlisted
- Attend a virtual interview if they reach the final stage
This means applicants should not only focus on marks, but also prepare for assessments and interviews.
What important details should applicants not ignore?
There are a few important points that could affect your application.
Old Mutual states that:
- Preference may be given to candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds and persons with disabilities
- Applicants under the age of 18 must have parental or guardian consent
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- If no feedback is received by 31 July 2026, applicants should regard their application as unsuccessful
These details are easy to overlook, but they matter.
One missed document can cost you the opportunity.
How can you improve your chances of success?
A strong application usually comes down to preparation.
Here are simple ways to strengthen yours:
- Make sure your CV is clean, short, and relevant
- Complete the motivation form carefully and honestly
- Double-check your academic results before uploading
- Prepare early for the gamified and psychometric assessments
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute problems
Students aiming for actuarial science should also show a genuine interest in the profession, not only a need for funding.
How to submit your application
Applications must be submitted through the official Old Mutual online application portal.
For queries, applicants can contact Old Mutual at earlycareers@oldmutual.com.
Why is this opportunity worth serious attention?
This bursary offers something many students are looking for but rarely find in one package.
It combines:
- Full financial support
- Access to mentorship and workplace exposure
- Professional development opportunities
- A direct route into employment after graduation
For learners and students who meet the academic requirements, this is the kind of opportunity that can shape both university life and long-term career success.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Do not treat this like a normal bursary application. Because the process includes assessments and an interview, start preparing now. Practice how to explain why actuarial science fits your strengths, your academic goals, and your long-term career plans. Strong marks open the door, but preparation can help you stand out.
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Final Thoughts
The Old Mutual Actuarial Science Bursary 2026 is a standout opportunity for South African students with exceptional Maths results and a serious interest in actuarial science. With full funding, mentorship, industry exposure, and guaranteed employment after graduation, it offers far more than ordinary bursary support.
For students ready to build a future in one of the most respected professions in finance, this is an opportunity worth pursuing early and carefully.
