Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship 2027

About the Provider

The Imfundo Trust was established by the Old Mutual Investment Group in 2011 as a scholarship initiative. The trust provides funding for students to pursue studies at tertiary level, particularly within the investments industry and related fields. The name Imfundo comes from the Nguni languages of southern Africa and means the acquisition of knowledge or the process of becoming educated, which captures the very purpose of the trust: to help students further their education.

Old Mutual is one of South Africa's most established financial services groups, with a long history of serving clients and contributing to the economy. The Old Mutual Investment Group, which runs the Imfundo Trust, plays an important role in managing investments and helping individuals and institutions grow their wealth. Like many leading companies, Old Mutual understands that the future of the industry depends on a steady supply of skilled, talented professionals.

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship reflects this understanding. By funding students in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and management, the trust helps to develop the kind of expertise that the investments industry and the broader economy need. At the same time, it opens doors for talented young people who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education, giving them the chance to pursue their dreams and build rewarding careers.

What makes the programme particularly meaningful is its focus on widening access. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, who often face greater barriers to higher education. This commitment reflects a belief that talent exists everywhere and that opportunity should not be limited by where a student comes from or by their financial circumstances.

The programme also looks to the future by including postgraduate funding for Climate Studies. This shows an awareness that the challenges facing society are changing and that new skills are needed to respond to issues such as climate change. By supporting students in this emerging field alongside more traditional areas of study, the trust demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to education and development.

For learners who dream of a career in finance, business, technology, or climate-related fields, the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship represents a valuable opportunity. It offers financial support, a connection to a respected investment group, and a selection process that gives applicants the chance to show their potential in person. Through this programme, Old Mutual invests in the young people who will help shape the economy and society, staying true to the meaning of Imfundo by helping students acquire the knowledge they need to succeed.

## About the Provider The Imfundo Trust was established by the Old Mutual Investment Group in 2011 as a scholarship initiative. The trust provides funding for students to pursue studies at tertiary level, particularly within the investments industry and related fields. The name Imfundo comes from the Nguni languages of southern Africa and means the acquisition of knowledge or the process of becoming educated, which captures the very purpose of the trust: to help students further their education. Old Mutual is one of South Africa's most established financial services groups, with a long history of serving clients and contributing to the economy. The Old Mutual Investment Group, which runs the Imfundo Trust, plays an important role in managing investments and helping individuals and institutions grow their wealth. Like many leading companies, Old Mutual understands that the future of the industry depends on a steady supply of skilled, talented professionals. The Imfundo Trust Scholarship reflects this understanding. By funding students in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and management, the trust helps to develop the kind of expertise that the investments industry and the broader economy need. At the same time, it opens doors for talented young people who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education, giving them the chance to pursue their dreams and build rewarding careers. What makes the programme particularly meaningful is its focus on widening access. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, who often face greater barriers to higher education. This commitment reflects a belief that talent exists everywhere and that opportunity should not be limited by where a student comes from or by their financial circumstances. The programme also looks to the future by including postgraduate funding for Climate Studies. This shows an awareness that the challenges facing society are changing and that new skills are needed to respond to issues such as climate change. By supporting students in this emerging field alongside more traditional areas of study, the trust demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to education and development. For learners who dream of a career in finance, business, technology, or climate-related fields, the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship represents a valuable opportunity. It offers financial support, a connection to a respected investment group, and a selection process that gives applicants the chance to show their potential in person. Through this programme, Old Mutual invests in the young people who will help shape the economy and society, staying true to the meaning of Imfundo by helping students acquire the knowledge they need to succeed.

About the Program

The Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship funds undergraduate degree studies for the 2027 academic year, with an additional offering for postgraduate study in Climate Studies. The programme is run through the Old Mutual Investment Group, and it aims to support students who wish to build careers in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and the investments industry.

The scholarship covers a focused set of fields, including Business, Commerce, Computer Science and related qualifications such as Computational Thinking, Data Science, Engineering, Finance, and Management Sciences or Studies. In addition, scholarships are awarded for postgraduate study in Climate Studies, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of climate-related skills in the modern world.

The selection process is thorough. Shortlisted candidates are contacted and invited to attend an interview. The Board of Trustees then considers the outcome of the interview, along with any other relevant factors, when making the final decision on granting the scholarships. This interview-based approach means that applicants have the chance to present themselves and their ambitions in person, and that selection considers more than just academic results on paper.

The academic requirements are demanding. Matric applicants entering first year in 2027 must have achieved, in their mid-year examinations, a minimum overall average of 70%, at least 70% in Mathematics, and at least 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. Students who are already studying must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in their most recent examinations. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, reflecting the programme's commitment to widening access.

The scholarship is open to South African citizens who are currently in Matric or have completed Matric, and who intend to study full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields. It is aimed at students entering their first or second year of study in 2027, except for Climate Studies, which is reserved for postgraduate students.

The programme is administered by StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator that manages the application process and supports students throughout their studies. By funding studies in these important fields, the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship helps to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to the investments industry, the broader economy, and the response to challenges such as climate change.

## About the Program The Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship funds undergraduate degree studies for the 2027 academic year, with an additional offering for postgraduate study in Climate Studies. The programme is run through the Old Mutual Investment Group, and it aims to support students who wish to build careers in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and the investments industry. The scholarship covers a focused set of fields, including Business, Commerce, Computer Science and related qualifications such as Computational Thinking, Data Science, Engineering, Finance, and Management Sciences or Studies. In addition, scholarships are awarded for postgraduate study in Climate Studies, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of climate-related skills in the modern world. The selection process is thorough. Shortlisted candidates are contacted and invited to attend an interview. The Board of Trustees then considers the outcome of the interview, along with any other relevant factors, when making the final decision on granting the scholarships. This interview-based approach means that applicants have the chance to present themselves and their ambitions in person, and that selection considers more than just academic results on paper. The academic requirements are demanding. Matric applicants entering first year in 2027 must have achieved, in their mid-year examinations, a minimum overall average of 70%, at least 70% in Mathematics, and at least 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. Students who are already studying must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in their most recent examinations. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, reflecting the programme's commitment to widening access. The scholarship is open to South African citizens who are currently in Matric or have completed Matric, and who intend to study full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields. It is aimed at students entering their first or second year of study in 2027, except for Climate Studies, which is reserved for postgraduate students. The programme is administered by StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator that manages the application process and supports students throughout their studies. By funding studies in these important fields, the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship helps to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to the investments industry, the broader economy, and the response to challenges such as climate change.

Bursary Benefits

The Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship provides financial support to help students pursue qualifications in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and the investments industry. The funding is intended to ease the financial burden on students and their families.

Financial support towards the costs of undergraduate study in one of the listed fields
Funding for postgraduate study in Climate Studies, addressing a growing area of need
The opportunity to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
A connection to a respected investment group with a long-standing commitment to education

Because the scholarship is run through a trust dedicated to education, recipients become part of a programme with a genuine focus on helping students further their studies. The interview-based selection process also gives applicants the chance to show their potential beyond their academic results.

Beyond the funding, the programme aims to develop talented students who can contribute to the investments industry and the broader economy. Preference given to students from rural and township backgrounds also makes this an important opportunity for those who may face greater barriers to higher education.

## Bursary Benefits The Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship provides financial support to help students pursue qualifications in fields connected to business, finance, technology, and the investments industry. The funding is intended to ease the financial burden on students and their families. - **Financial support** towards the costs of undergraduate study in one of the listed fields - Funding for **postgraduate study in Climate Studies**, addressing a growing area of need - The opportunity to study at a **recognised and accredited tertiary institution** in South Africa - A connection to a respected investment group with a long-standing commitment to education Because the scholarship is run through a trust dedicated to education, recipients become part of a programme with a genuine focus on helping students further their studies. The interview-based selection process also gives applicants the chance to show their potential beyond their academic results. Beyond the funding, the programme aims to develop talented students who can contribute to the investments industry and the broader economy. Preference given to students from rural and township backgrounds also makes this an important opportunity for those who may face greater barriers to higher education.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered.

You must be a South African citizen
You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
You must intend to study full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields
You must be entering your first or second year of study in 2027 (except for Climate Studies, which is for postgraduate students only)
You must be studying or intend to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
If currently in Matric and entering first year in 2027, you must have achieved in your mid-year examinations a minimum overall average of 70%, a minimum of 70% in Mathematics, and a minimum of 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language
If currently studying, you must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in your most recent examinations
Preference will be given to students from rural and township backgrounds

## Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered. - You must be a **South African citizen** - You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric - You must intend to study full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields - You must be entering your **first or second year of study in 2027** (except for Climate Studies, which is for postgraduate students only) - You must be studying or intend to study at a **recognised and accredited tertiary institution** in South Africa - If currently in Matric and entering first year in 2027, you must have achieved in your mid-year examinations a minimum overall average of **70%**, a minimum of **70% in Mathematics**, and a minimum of **70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language** - If currently studying, you must have achieved a minimum overall average of **65%** in your most recent examinations - Preference will be given to students from **rural and township backgrounds**

Required Documents

Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents with your online application. Missing documents may lead to disqualification, so prepare them carefully before you begin.

A clear photograph (head and shoulders)
A certified copy of your South African ID document
Grade 11 final results and Matric mid-year results, if currently in Matric
Matric certificate, if you have completed Matric
Full academic record and your latest available results
Proof of household income for your parents or guardians (payslips if employed, an affidavit if unemployed or self-employed, financial statements or bank statements if they own a business, or a SASSA letter if grants are received)
Death certificates for parents, if deceased
A court letter or affidavit regarding child support, if parents are divorced or separated

## Required Documents Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents with your online application. Missing documents may lead to disqualification, so prepare them carefully before you begin. - A clear **photograph** (head and shoulders) - A certified copy of your **South African ID document** - **Grade 11 final results and Matric mid-year results**, if currently in Matric - **Matric certificate**, if you have completed Matric - **Full academic record** and your latest available results - **Proof of household income** for your parents or guardians (payslips if employed, an affidavit if unemployed or self-employed, financial statements or bank statements if they own a business, or a SASSA letter if grants are received) - **Death certificates** for parents, if deceased - A court letter or affidavit regarding **child support**, if parents are divorced or separated

How to Apply

Applications for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship must be submitted online through the administrator's website. Follow these steps to apply successfully:

Gather all your required documents and save clear, certified copies so you can upload them easily.
Read the bursary administrator's instructions page carefully before you begin, as it explains the process in detail.
Visit the online application portal for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship.
Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic details.
When asked how you heard about the scholarship, enter the referral information as requested on the form.
Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear and complete.
Review your entire application to confirm there are no errors or missing information.
Submit your application before the closing date.

Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to apply well in advance. Note that shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview, so prepare to speak about yourself and your ambitions. Keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.

## How to Apply Applications for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship must be submitted online through the administrator's website. Follow these steps to apply successfully: 1. Gather all your required documents and save clear, certified copies so you can upload them easily. 2. Read the bursary administrator's instructions page carefully before you begin, as it explains the process in detail. 3. Visit the online application portal for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship. 4. Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic details. 5. When asked how you heard about the scholarship, enter the referral information as requested on the form. 6. Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear and complete. 7. Review your entire application to confirm there are no errors or missing information. 8. Submit your application before the closing date. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to apply well in advance. Note that shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview, so prepare to speak about yourself and your ambitions. Keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.

Tips for Success

A strong scholarship application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship.

Check your marks carefully. Matric applicants entering first year need a 70% average, 70% in Mathematics, and 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. University students need a 65% average. Confirm you meet these before applying.
Prepare for an interview. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed, so think about how you would explain your goals, your interest in your chosen field, and why you deserve the scholarship.
Prepare proof of income carefully. Make sure your family's income documents are recent, clear, and appropriate to their situation.
Highlight your background if relevant. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, so make sure this is clear where the application allows.
Apply early. Online systems can become busy near the deadline. Submitting early helps you avoid last-minute technical problems.
Get documents certified in advance. Certified copies take time to arrange, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths ahead of time.
Confirm your field and year of study. Most fields are for first or second year students, while Climate Studies is for postgraduates. Make sure you apply correctly.
Read the administrator's instructions. The administrator provides a guide that explains the process. Reading it carefully helps you avoid common mistakes.
Proofread your application. Errors and missing fields create a poor impression. Review everything before submitting, or ask someone to check it for you.
Be truthful. Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation.

Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application, and getting ready for the interview, will help you stand out among many other candidates.

## Tips for Success A strong scholarship application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship. - **Check your marks carefully.** Matric applicants entering first year need a 70% average, 70% in Mathematics, and 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. University students need a 65% average. Confirm you meet these before applying. - **Prepare for an interview.** Shortlisted candidates are interviewed, so think about how you would explain your goals, your interest in your chosen field, and why you deserve the scholarship. - **Prepare proof of income carefully.** Make sure your family's income documents are recent, clear, and appropriate to their situation. - **Highlight your background if relevant.** Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds, so make sure this is clear where the application allows. - **Apply early.** Online systems can become busy near the deadline. Submitting early helps you avoid last-minute technical problems. - **Get documents certified in advance.** Certified copies take time to arrange, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths ahead of time. - **Confirm your field and year of study.** Most fields are for first or second year students, while Climate Studies is for postgraduates. Make sure you apply correctly. - **Read the administrator's instructions.** The administrator provides a guide that explains the process. Reading it carefully helps you avoid common mistakes. - **Proofread your application.** Errors and missing fields create a poor impression. Review everything before submitting, or ask someone to check it for you. - **Be truthful.** Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation. Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application, and getting ready for the interview, will help you stand out among many other candidates.

Career Prospects

The fields funded by the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship lead to careers across business, finance, technology, and the growing field of climate studies. Graduates are well placed to enter sectors that are central to the economy and to the response to global challenges.

Graduates in Finance, Commerce, and Business can become financial analysts, investment professionals, accountants, economists, and business managers. These careers are at the heart of the investments industry, where Old Mutual operates, and they offer strong prospects for growth and good earning potential. Professionals in these fields help manage money, analyse markets, and guide important financial decisions.

Those who study Management Sciences or Studies can pursue careers in business management, operations, and strategy. These professionals help organisations run efficiently and make sound decisions, and their skills are valuable across every industry.

Graduates in Computer Science, Computational Thinking, and Data Science can become software developers, data scientists, and data analysts. As the financial and investment sectors become increasingly data-driven, these skills are in high demand. Data professionals help organisations understand markets, manage risk, and improve their services through technology.

Those who study Engineering can pursue careers across many specialisations, building and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that society relies on. Engineering graduates are valued for their problem-solving and technical skills across numerous industries.

The postgraduate funding for Climate Studies prepares students for careers in one of the most important emerging fields. Climate professionals work in research, policy, sustainability, and environmental management, helping organisations and governments respond to climate change. As the world increasingly focuses on sustainability, these skills are becoming ever more valuable.

Beyond the specific careers, the scholarship connects students to a respected investment group with deep roots in the financial sector. This association, combined with a strong qualification, can be valuable when seeking employment. The interview-based selection and the focus on developing talented students also help recipients build confidence and professional skills.

For talented young people, especially those from rural and township backgrounds, the scholarship offers a path into careers that can transform their futures. The mix of business, technology, and climate-related fields means that ambitious students with a range of interests can find a place within the programme and a route towards a rewarding career.

## Career Prospects The fields funded by the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship lead to careers across business, finance, technology, and the growing field of climate studies. Graduates are well placed to enter sectors that are central to the economy and to the response to global challenges. Graduates in **Finance, Commerce, and Business** can become financial analysts, investment professionals, accountants, economists, and business managers. These careers are at the heart of the investments industry, where Old Mutual operates, and they offer strong prospects for growth and good earning potential. Professionals in these fields help manage money, analyse markets, and guide important financial decisions. Those who study **Management Sciences or Studies** can pursue careers in business management, operations, and strategy. These professionals help organisations run efficiently and make sound decisions, and their skills are valuable across every industry. Graduates in **Computer Science, Computational Thinking, and Data Science** can become software developers, data scientists, and data analysts. As the financial and investment sectors become increasingly data-driven, these skills are in high demand. Data professionals help organisations understand markets, manage risk, and improve their services through technology. Those who study **Engineering** can pursue careers across many specialisations, building and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that society relies on. Engineering graduates are valued for their problem-solving and technical skills across numerous industries. The postgraduate funding for **Climate Studies** prepares students for careers in one of the most important emerging fields. Climate professionals work in research, policy, sustainability, and environmental management, helping organisations and governments respond to climate change. As the world increasingly focuses on sustainability, these skills are becoming ever more valuable. Beyond the specific careers, the scholarship connects students to a respected investment group with deep roots in the financial sector. This association, combined with a strong qualification, can be valuable when seeking employment. The interview-based selection and the focus on developing talented students also help recipients build confidence and professional skills. For talented young people, especially those from rural and township backgrounds, the scholarship offers a path into careers that can transform their futures. The mix of business, technology, and climate-related fields means that ambitious students with a range of interests can find a place within the programme and a route towards a rewarding career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship?

South African citizens who are in Matric or have completed Matric, who intend to study full-time in one of the listed fields, and who are entering their first or second year in 2027 (or postgraduate Climate Studies), and who meet the academic requirements, may apply.

What fields of study does the scholarship cover?

The scholarship covers Business, Commerce, Computer Science and related qualifications, Data Science, Engineering, Finance, and Management Sciences or Studies. It also funds postgraduate study in Climate Studies.

What marks do I need?

Matric applicants entering first year need a 70% overall average, 70% in Mathematics, and 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. University students need a 65% average.

Is there an interview?

Yes. Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend an interview, and the Board of Trustees considers the interview when making the final decision.

When is the closing date?

Applications close on 30 September 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the administrator's website. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents.

Is preference given to any group?

Yes. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds.

Can postgraduate students apply?

Postgraduate funding is available specifically for Climate Studies. The other fields are for first or second year undergraduate students.

Who administers the scholarship?

The scholarship is administered by StudyTrust, which manages the application process and supports recipients throughout their studies.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship? South African citizens who are in Matric or have completed Matric, who intend to study full-time in one of the listed fields, and who are entering their first or second year in 2027 (or postgraduate Climate Studies), and who meet the academic requirements, may apply. ## What fields of study does the scholarship cover? The scholarship covers Business, Commerce, Computer Science and related qualifications, Data Science, Engineering, Finance, and Management Sciences or Studies. It also funds postgraduate study in Climate Studies. ## What marks do I need? Matric applicants entering first year need a 70% overall average, 70% in Mathematics, and 70% in English First Additional Language or 60% in English Home Language. University students need a 65% average. ## Is there an interview? Yes. Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend an interview, and the Board of Trustees considers the interview when making the final decision. ## When is the closing date? Applications close on **30 September 2026**. Late applications will not be accepted. ## How do I apply? Applications are submitted online through the administrator's website. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents. ## Is preference given to any group? Yes. Preference is given to students from rural and township backgrounds. ## Can postgraduate students apply? Postgraduate funding is available specifically for Climate Studies. The other fields are for first or second year undergraduate students. ## Who administers the scholarship? The scholarship is administered by StudyTrust, which manages the application process and supports recipients throughout their studies.

Applications Closing

Applications close on 30 September 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so apply early to make sure your application is considered.

About the Organization

StudyTrust (bursary administrator) Tel: 011 403 1632 Email: apply@StudyTrust.org.za