The Santam Bursary Programme is an exciting initiative that aims to nurture the next generation of professionals in South Africa’s financial services sector, particularly within the short-term insurance industry. Established by Santam Limited, South Africa’s largest general insurer, the programme provides a platform for students to gain critical skills and expertise in various fields like actuarial science, agriculture, underwriting, hydraulics, and insurance assessment.
Through this initiative, Santam seeks to build a strong talent pool and contribute to the growth of South Africa’s economy.
An Overview of the Santam Bursary Programme
Santam’s bursary programme is designed to create a continuous stream of highly skilled, capable, and motivated graduates who are equipped with both technical skills and leadership competencies. By targeting students in critical study areas, the bursary programme aims to provide financial support while also ensuring that South Africa’s insurance and agricultural sectors are future-ready.
The programme focuses on students pursuing studies in fields that are essential for the development of the short-term insurance industry and its related sectors. These include:
- Actuarial Science
- Data Analytics
- Data Sciences
- Statistics
- Agriculture
- Civil Engineering
- Geomatics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Construction
- Insurance Technical Accounting
- Economics
- Finance
- Mathematics
- Risk Management
By offering bursaries in these key areas, Santam is not only supporting individual growth but also ensuring a steady supply of highly trained professionals who can make a meaningful impact in the country’s financial services and agricultural industries.
Bursary Coverage and Benefits
The Santam Bursary Programme offers comprehensive financial support to help students focus on their studies and minimize financial burdens. This bursary package covers a range of essential costs, allowing recipients to excel academically and professionally. The bursary will cover the following expenses:
- Registration/Tuition Fees
- Accommodation (Deposit, Admin Fees, etc.)
- Learning Materials (Books, E-Manuals, etc.)
- Laptops
- Monthly Allowance
- Travel/Transport Allowance
These financial provisions ensure that bursary recipients have all the resources they need to succeed in their academic journey, providing them with the tools necessary to perform to the best of their abilities.
Selection Criteria: Who Can Apply?
Santam is committed to selecting candidates who demonstrate both academic excellence and a strong passion for pursuing a career in the short-term insurance sector. The following criteria will be considered when reviewing applications for the Santam Bursary Programme:
- Academic Excellence – Applicants must have an average of 65% or higher for their undergraduate degree or their latest examination results (mid-year/June).
- Motivation for a Career with Santam – Santam is looking for students who are driven by the desire to work in the short-term insurance industry and have a clear career path in mind.
- Agricultural Applicants – Agricultural students must meet specific criteria related to their field, which will be outlined in further detail on the application page.
Additionally, only South African citizens are eligible to apply for this bursary programme.
How to Apply for the Santam Bursary Programme
Interested students who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for the Santam Bursary Programme by following these simple steps:
- Complete the Online Application – The application form must be submitted online before the 30th of September, 2025, for consideration in the 2026 bursary intake.
- Review the Instructions – Before starting the application process, it’s essential to carefully read the instructions on the bursary application page to ensure that all required information is provided.
- Submit Supporting Documents – Along with the application form, applicants must submit supporting documentation, including proof of academic results and identity documents.
The application period runs from 1 May to 30 September, and only South African citizens will be considered for this bursary.
Santam Agriculture: Closing the Skills Gap in Agriculture
One of the key focuses of the Santam Bursary Programme is to address the skills gap in the agricultural sector, particularly in crop insurance. Santam Agriculture provides specialised knowledge and support to farmers, helping them mitigate risks related to crop production and loss assessments. The company aims to make a lasting impact by training future agricultural professionals who will help safeguard the country’s food security.
Santam has been working to close the skills gap by providing agricultural students with opportunities for practical exposure through vacation work and hands-on experience in underwriting, sales, and relationship management. This initiative ensures that students are ready to enter the workforce with the skills necessary to thrive in agricultural insurance roles.
What Agricultural Bursars Can Expect
Students awarded an agricultural bursary through the Santam Bursary Programme will receive more than just financial support. They will embark on a career journey with various opportunities for growth and development, including:
- A Rolling Career Journey – Santam intends to retain successful agricultural bursars as trainee area managers, with the potential for long-term employment.
- Graduate Programme Participation – Bursars will automatically join Santam’s graduate programme, where they will receive comprehensive training and development.
- Vacation Work – Bursars will gain practical experience through vacation work, an essential step in launching their careers in agriculture and insurance.
- Mentorship – Each agricultural bursar will be assigned a mentor who will guide them through their studies and early career stages.
- Business Engagements and Conferences – Bursars will be invited to attend relevant industry conferences and business engagements, enhancing their knowledge and professional network.
Qualifications and Skills for Agricultural Applicants
To be eligible for the agricultural bursary, candidates must meet certain educational and skills requirements, including:
- 2- or 3-Year Agricultural Studies with a focus on crop production.
- Agricultural Degree/Diploma with a preference for subjects like plant production and soil science.
- Microsoft Excel skills.
- Strong communication skills (both verbal and written).
- Negotiation and interpersonal skills.
- A team-oriented mindset as well as the ability to work independently.
- Customer-focused with a passion for building relationships and serving clients.
Santam also encourages Employment Equity candidates to apply to promote a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Core Competencies for All Applicants
Regardless of the field of study, Santam seeks applicants who exhibit the following core competencies:
- Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written).
- Strong people skills and the ability to work effectively in teams.
- Self-driven and passionate about learning.
- Critical thinking and the ability to solve complex problems.
- Confidence and self-awareness in professional settings.
Check also: Standard Bank Group Bursary Programme 2026
The Santam Bursary Programme is a significant step towards addressing the skills shortages in South Africa’s short-term insurance and agricultural sectors. By providing financial support, mentorship, and practical career opportunities, the programme ensures that talented young individuals are equipped to contribute to the growth of the economy. Whether you are studying actuarial science, agriculture, engineering, or risk management, this bursary offers you the chance to build a rewarding career with one of South Africa’s leading insurers.
If you are passionate about pursuing a career in the short-term insurance or agricultural industries, the Santam Bursary Programme could be your gateway to success.