Actuarial Science is one of South Africa’s most demanding — and best-paid — career paths.
The Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027 is built for exceptional mathematics students who want financial security, professional mentorship, and a clear route into employment.
This is not a once-off bursary. It is a long-term career partnership that supports you from university through to professional qualification.
What Makes the Sanlam Actuarial Bursary Different?
Sanlam invests in future actuaries with the intention of developing long-term professionals, not short-term graduates.
Successful candidates receive:
- Full financial support throughout their studies
- Ongoing academic and professional guidance
- Structured exposure to Sanlam’s actuarial teams
- An employment pathway once qualification requirements are met
What the Bursary Covers (2027 Intake)
Full Financial Support
- 100% tuition fees
- University accommodation costs covered
- Prescribed books and study materials
Allowances & Career Support
- General allowance for living expenses
- Paid vacation work during university breaks
- Mentorship from qualified actuaries
- Coverage of Actuarial Board exam fees (subject to policy)
Employment Pathway
- Opportunity for employment at Sanlam after qualification
- Exposure to multiple business clusters through rotations
Who Should Apply?
Sanlam targets high-performing mathematics students at different academic stages.
Eligibility Breakdown
| Requirement | School Leavers (Grade 12) | University Students (1st–3rd Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Performance | 90%+ Mathematics & strong overall average | Solid Actuarial Science transcript |
| Citizenship | South African citizen | South African citizen |
| Study Status | Entering 1st year in 2027 | Registered full-time |
| Documents | Grade 11 final + Grade 12 mid-year | Full transcript + fee statement |
Only applicants studying or intending to study Actuarial Science will be considered.
How to Write a Strong Sanlam Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter plays a decisive role in the selection process. Sanlam expects thoughtful, original answers to the following:
- Explain what an actuary does — in your own words
- Why Actuarial Science appeals to you
- What qualities make you capable of succeeding
- Why Sanlam should invest in you specifically
- Your realistic “Plan B” if actuarial studies don’t work out
Tip: Clarity, self-awareness, and academic focus matter more than fancy language.
How to Answer Sanlam’s Motivation Questions:
Sanlam wants to see your personality and logic. If you aren’t sure how to structure your answers, follow our step-by-step Motivational Letter Template for 2026 which includes specific tips for Actuarial and Science bursaries.
Important Dates You Must Know
- Applications Close: 30 June 2026
- Feedback Cut-Off: 1 October 2026
- Primary Location: Bellville, Western Cape (Head Office)
If you have not received feedback by October, your application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
How to Apply for the Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027
Applications are online only.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Comprehensive academic CV
- Certified South African ID
- Matric certificate or Grade 11 final results
- Full university transcript (if applicable)
Step 2: Submit Online
Apply via the official Sanlam Careers / E-Recruitment Portal.
Incomplete applications are not reviewed.
Funding Alternatives
If you don’t qualify yet, also explore:
- Shoprite Agricultural Sciences Bursary 2026
- NSFAS funding
- IUCMA External Bursary Programme 2026 – Mpumalanga
- SETA Bursary 2026
- Shoprite Accounting Bursary 2026: SAICA CA Stream
FAQs – Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027
Sanlam offers an employment pathway for qualifying graduates, subject to meeting academic and professional requirements.
Yes. Undergraduate students from 1st to 3rd year are encouraged to apply.
No. Applications are open to accredited South African universities offering Actuarial Science.
Continued funding depends on meeting Sanlam’s academic performance standards.
