Nicasia Holdings, in partnership with global professional services firm AON, has officially opened applications for the Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance 2026. This initiative is designed to support talented yet financially disadvantaged South African students who are already pursuing higher education in critical, high-impact fields.
Unlike many bursaries that focus solely on academic merit or first-year entrants, this programme places strong emphasis on financial need, recognising the challenges faced by capable students who lack access to funding such as NSFAS or private bursaries. The programme represents a deliberate investment in South Africa’s future professionals across finance, insurance, risk management, investment, and engineering disciplines.
With a total value of up to R120,000 per student, the bursary adopts a holistic approach to funding, ensuring that recipients can focus on academic success rather than day-to-day survival.
Bursary Overview: Key Information at a Glance
- Bursary Name: Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance Programme
- Academic Year: 2026
- Closing Date: 23 January 2026
- Partner Organisation: AON
- Who Can Apply: Unfunded South African students
- Age Requirement: 18–30 years
- Fields of Study Covered:
- Corporate Finance
- Insurance
- Risk Management
- Investment-related qualifications
- Engineering and related disciplines
- Total Bursary Value: Up to R120,000
- Coverage Includes: Tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a monthly allowance
- Application Method: Email submission
- Enquiries Contact: +27 64 501 3176
Purpose of the Nicasia Holdings Bursary
The Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance Programme was established to address a growing gap within South Africa’s higher education landscape: students who demonstrate potential and commitment but remain excluded from funding opportunities.
By supporting students in sectors that directly contribute to economic stability and innovation, Nicasia Holdings and AON aim to:
- Build a pipeline of skilled professionals in scarce and high-demand fields
- Reduce dropout rates caused by financial hardship
- Promote equitable access to education
- Contribute to long-term national development
This bursary is not a once-off donation, but a strategic effort to empower future leaders and specialists.
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 30 years old
- Be currently registered or returning to study in 2026
- Be pursuing a qualification in one of the approved fields
- Not be funded by NSFAS or any other bursary
- Be able to provide a 2025 academic transcript
- Demonstrate genuine financial need
Important: Priority is given to students who have no form of external funding. Applicants with existing bursaries or NSFAS support will not be considered.
Approved Fields of Study
The bursary supports qualifications aligned with Nicasia Holdings’ strategic sectors, including:
Finance and Investment
- BCom in Financial Management
- Corporate Finance qualifications
- Investment Management or related degrees
Risk and Insurance
- Risk Management qualifications
- Insurance-related degrees and diplomas
Engineering
- Engineering degrees (various specialisations)
- Engineering-related qualifications aligned with industry needs
Students enrolled in these fields are strongly encouraged to apply, provided all eligibility requirements are met.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance 2026 offers comprehensive financial support of up to R120,000, covering:
Tuition Fees
Paid directly to the registered academic institution to ensure uninterrupted studies.
Textbooks and Learning Materials
Support for essential academic resources, reducing the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.
Accommodation
Assistance for approved student accommodation, ensuring a stable and safe living environment.
Monthly Allowance
A structured monthly payment to help with food, transport, and basic living costs.
This holistic model allows students to focus fully on academic performance and professional development.
How to Apply for the Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance 2026
The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Applicants must compile the following:
- Updated and professional Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- 2025 academic transcript
- Proof that you are not funded by NSFAS or any other bursary
Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and up to date.
Step 2: Submit Your Application via Email
Email all required documents to:
Primrose.mathea@nicasiaholdings.co.za
Recommended email subject line:
Application for Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance 2026
Attach all documents in a single email and verify that no files are missing.
Step 3: Apply Before the Deadline
- Closing Date: 23 January 2026
- Late or incomplete applications may not be considered
Early submission is strongly encouraged.
Selection Process
- Applications will be reviewed after the closing date
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information or interviews
- Final decisions will be communicated directly to successful applicants
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as funding is limited.
Career Development Opportunities After the Bursary
Recipients of the Nicasia Holdings Bursary often gain access to long-term career pathways in high-growth sectors.
Finance and Investment Careers
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Consultant
- Corporate Finance Associate
Risk and Insurance Careers
- Risk Analyst
- Insurance Underwriter
- Compliance Officer
Engineering Career Paths
- Graduate Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Specialist
Many bursary beneficiaries go on to secure:
- Internships and graduate programmes
- Professional training and certifications
- Sustainable, long-term careers in competitive industries
Top Application Tips
- Ensure your CV is professional and well–structured
- Double-check that your transcript reflects the correct academic year
- Apply early to avoid last-minute errors
- Use a professional email address
- Keep copies of all submitted documents
Students may also use tools such as the Edupstairs CV Builder and bursary eligibility resources to strengthen their applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can NSFAS-funded students apply?
No. Only unfunded students will be considered.
Is this bursary limited to first-year students?
No. It is open to students who are already enrolled, provided they meet all requirements.
Does the bursary guarantee employment after graduation?
No. However, it significantly improves employability by supporting qualifications in high-demand fields.
Can TVET college students apply?
Only if the qualification aligns with one of the listed fields and meets the eligibility criteria.
Is there an interview process?
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment.
Closing Date Reminder
The Nicasia Holdings Bursary Assistance 2026 closes on:
23 January 2026
Eligible students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing this valuable opportunity.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
