SARB Masters in Data Science & Machine Learning Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded for South African Students

Are you a data-driven thinker with dreams of solving real-world challenges through artificial intelligence and machine learning? What if your passion could help build South Africa’s economy—and get you a fully funded Master’s degree at the same time?

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB), in partnership with the National Graduate Academy for Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (NGA(MaSS)), is offering a fully funded scholarship for 2026. It’s open to students accepted into specialized postgraduate programs in Data Science, AI, Machine Learning, Financial Analytics, and related fields.

If you're under 35 and academically strong, this could be your launchpad into a future-proof career in finance and tech.

What is the SARB Masters Scholarship?

The SARB serves as the central bank of South Africa and plays a critical role in managing monetary policy, maintaining financial stability, and guiding the country’s economic direction. To stay ahead in an increasingly data-driven world, SARB is investing in education by funding students who can help shape the future of finance through analytics and innovation.

This scholarship program was developed not just to support talented students, but to directly contribute to national capacity in high-demand sectors like data science, artificial intelligence, and computational finance. It’s more than a bursary—it’s a partnership between the student, the state, and the future of fintech in South Africa.

Who Can Apply for the SARB Scholarship?

To qualify for the 2026 SARB scholarship, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

You must be a South African citizen under the age of 35 in the year of registration. You’ll need to have completed—or be completing—an Honours degree in a relevant field with an average of at least 65%. Provisional acceptance into a full-time Master’s program for 2026 is also required, and that program should include courses related to financial analytics.

This opportunity is open to students who want to study advanced topics in:

• Data Science

• Artificial Intelligence

• Machine Learning

• Computational Statistics

• Financial Engineering

• Big Data

• Business Mathematics

• Mathematical/Statistical Sciences

If you’re driven by numbers and have a deep interest in how data shapes economies, this scholarship is made for you.

Which Universities and Programs Are Eligible?

The SARB scholarship is applicable at various South African universities offering cutting-edge postgraduate programs in relevant fields.

For instance, students can apply to:

• University of Cape Town (UCT) for its Analytics or Data Science programs

• University of Pretoria (UP) for Big Data Science or Advanced Analytics

• Stellenbosch University for Machine Learning or Financial Risk Management

• Wits University, North-West University, University of Limpopo, and Sol Plaatje University for eScience and Financial Analytics

• University of the Western Cape (UWC) and University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) for Statistical and Data Science degrees

Whichever program you choose, ensure that it includes financial analytics as part of the curriculum. That’s a core requirement.

What Does the SARB Scholarship Cover?

This is a comprehensive, fully funded scholarship, meaning SARB will cover:

• Full tuition fees at the accepted university

• Prescribed academic materials required for your program

• Research-related expenses, if applicable

• Living allowance, based on assessment and need

It doesn’t stop at funding. Scholarship recipients will also attend workshops, industry sessions, and mentorship activities hosted by SARB and NGA(MaSS), giving students valuable real-world exposure to financial innovation and policy.

How to Apply for the SARB Scholarship

The application process is straightforward, but requires preparation. Here’s what you need to do:

First, apply to a participating university and get provisional acceptance for a relevant full-time Master's program starting in 2026.

Then, gather the required documents:

• Your academic transcript(s) (certified)

• South African ID (certified copy)

• Proof of provisional acceptance (must include your student number)

• Degree certificate (if already completed)

Convert these documents into a single PDF file and submit your application through the official SARB bursary portal or NGA(MaSS) platform.

Make sure to use the promo code SARBDSM26 during your application.

The deadline is 31 October 2025. Final exam results must be submitted by 31 December 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Why This Scholarship Stands Out

In a world where skills in data science and AI are more valuable than ever, this scholarship goes beyond just funding—it’s a long-term career opportunity.

You’ll gain not only academic knowledge, but also industry exposure through collaboration with SARB. The program is designed to empower students to become future leaders in economic modeling, financial technology, and public policy.

It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and serve your country by applying your skills where they’re needed most.

At Euro Staffs, we’ve helped hundreds of students pursue similar scholarships and global education paths. If you need help with your university application, CV, or statement of purpose, visit our CV creation page or contact us today.

Key Dates and Summary

• Scholarship Name: SARB Masters in Data Science & Machine Learning

• Offered by: South African Reserve Bank (SARB) + NGA(MaSS)

• Application Deadline: 31 October 2025

• Eligible Fields: Data Science, AI, Machine Learning, Statistics, etc.

• Promo Code: SARBDSM26

• Start of Studies: Academic year 2026

For full details, visit the official page on oyaop.com

Final Thoughts

The SARB Masters in Data Science & Machine Learning Scholarship 2026 is more than just financial assistance. It’s a statement of trust—an invitation to be part of South Africa’s economic transformation.

If you’re a high-achieving student with a passion for data and an eye on the future, don’t miss this chance. Start your university application now, prepare your documents, and submit your scholarship form before the deadline.

Need help getting started? At Euro Staffs, we support students through every step of the process—from course selection to documentation and final submission.

Explore more student resources at www.eurostaffs.org

and take the first step toward a smarter, data-driven future.