Cenfri Bursary 2026 Requirements & Application

The Cenfri Bursary supports postgraduate students who are passionate about economic development by funding their studies and offering valuable industry experience. 

You cannot afford to delay, applications typically open in mid-August and close in early to mid-September.

About the Bursary

Cenfri is a financial sector development think tank based in Cape Town, focused on economic inclusion and digital transformation in Africa. 

Through its bursary programme, Cenfri seeks to develop South African postgraduate researchers by supporting their studies and offering mentorship and real-world exposure.

Fields of Study Funded

This bursary is available to students pursuing a one-year or final-year Master’s qualification in Economics or related fields, ideally with a development focus.

Benefits for Recipients

1. Tuition support and a monthly stipend throughout the study year
2. A dedicated mentor to guide your research and studies
3. At least six weeks of paid internship at Cenfri’s offices in Durbanville, with remote work options
4. Strong prospects for full-time employment as a research analyst after completion of the programme

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following:

1. Be a South African citizen
2. Be entering a one-year or final year of a Master’s-level qualification in Economics or a related field in 2026
3. Have a GPA of 65% or higher in your most recent academic year
4. Demonstrate interest in research and development economics
5. Be an Employment Equity (EE) candidate who can demonstrate financial need
6. Exhibit strong writing, presentation, interpersonal, quantitative, analytical, and MS Office skills
7. Advanced English proficiency—verbal and written
8. Knowledge of Stata and household data analysis is an advantage
9. Preference for applicants based in Cape Town to fully benefit from mentorship and work placement

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via Cenfri’s bursary portal, accessible through their website. 

Early submission is encouraged to avoid technical issues near the deadline.

Required Documents

Submit the following certified documents as part of your online application:

1. South African ID document
2. Full academic record or transcripts (most recent results)
3. Proof of provisional or accepted Master’s study
4. Motivational essay demonstrating your dedication and fit for the programme
5. Proof of financial need (e.g., payslips, affidavit)

Closing Date

The application deadline for the 2026 bursary is expected to be around mid-September, in line with previous cycles which closed on approximately 13 September. 

You must watch Cenfri’s website closely for the exact date.

Contact Details

For bursary-related enquiries, contact Cenfri via:

• Email: [email protected]
• Tel: 021 913 9510