Absa Cybersecurity Academy Scholarship South Africa 2026

Absa’s Cybersecurity Academy Scholarship for 2026 is only open to a limited number of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

The programme offers a fully funded two-year cybersecurity training in Worcester, Cape Town.

Only those who meet strict eligibility criteria and apply early will be considered.

About the Absa Cybersecurity Academy

The Absa Cybersecurity Academy was launched in 2019 by Absa Group in partnership with the Maharishi Invincibility Institute and the Hein Wagner Blind Academy. 

It offers a three‑year programme combining technical cybersecurity training, workplace experience, and holistic life skills development. 

The programme is designed to build both technical ability and personal resilience.

Fields of Study Funded

This scholarship supports a two‑year stream specifically for visually impaired or blind young people.

• Year 1: Foundation technical skills and certifications (A+, N+, S+), a national diploma, and personal development.
  
• Year 2: Python programming, CCNA DevNet, CCNA Cyber Operations, preparing scholars for cybersecurity analyst roles.
  Graduates earn internationally recognised qualifications and are eligible for workplace placements or internships.

Benefits for Recipients

Scholarship holders receive full support for:

• Tuition and formal coursework over two years.
  
• Accommodation, meals, travel, and a monthly stipend.
  
• Access to specialist adaptive learning technology.
  
• Personal and professional development through holistic mentoring and internship pathways.
  Successful graduates are often offered internship placements with Absa or its partners.

Eligibility Criteria – Checklist

You must meet all these to qualify:

• South African citizen or resident.
  
• Visually impaired or fully blind.
  
• Passed Matric or equivalent qualification, with at least 50% in English.
  
• Basic computer literacy, including typing and use of screen readers.
  
• Between 18 and 30 years old.
  
• From a previously disadvantaged background.
  
• Reside in Worcester or Cape Town or be willing to relocate for the programme.
  
• Not currently enrolled in another leadership, internship, or learnership programme.
  Selection is based on academic ability and financial need.

How to Apply

When applications open in 2025, you must apply online.

Submit your application via email to Hein Wagner Academy. Include the subject: “Absa Cybersecurity Academy Scholarship Application”

Include all required documents listed below. Only complete applications will be processed.

Required Documents

You must attach:

• Certified copy of SA ID.
  
• Cover letter stating your background and goals.
  
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  
• Official Matric results or highest qualification transcript.
  Missing documents will lead to rejection.

Closing Date

The Absa Cybersecurity Academy Scholarship currently has no publicly announced deadline.

The last officially recorded closing date was 3 September 2021, but that is no longer valid.

Keep an eye on Absa and Hein Wagner Academy channels for the next application window in 2025. 

Contact Details

For questions or the application link:
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Phone (Hein Wagner Academy, Worcester): 023 346 6800