Bank of Namibia Undergraduate Bursary Scheme for 2025-26

If you’re a Namibian student with strong academic performance and financial need, the Bank of Namibia Undergraduate Bursary Scheme for 2025-26 offers a transformative opportunity. Designed for students who may not otherwise afford tertiary education, this bursary supports full bachelor’s degree studies in fields that align with national priorities. This article covers everything you need to know: what is covered, who is eligible, how to apply, deadlines, and tips to maximize your chance of selection.

Overview of the Bursary

• Name: Bank of Namibia Undergraduate Bursary Scheme 2025-26

• Location: Namibia (and recognized universities within the Southern African Development Community – SADC)

• Level of Study: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)

• Target Group: Namibian citizens (school leavers or current tertiary students)

• Fields of Study: Priority programmes like Economics (especially Financial Econometrics), Data Science / Data Analytics, Industrial Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Education (Math & Sciences), Management Information Systems, Mathematical Sciences etc.

What the Bursary Covers

For successful applicants, the Bank of Namibia bursary can cover the following costs:

• Registration and tuition fees for the undergraduate programme

• Accommodation costs

• Books and study materials

• Travel costs (to/from university)

• A stipend or support for living-related costs during the course of studies

Importantly, continued funding depends on satisfactory academic progress. A formal contract with the Bank is required before the bursary commences.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Bank of Namibia Undergraduate Bursary, you must meet all of these:

1. Be a Namibian citizen

2. Have excellent academic performance — strong Grade 12 (or equivalent) results, or good standing as a current tertiary student with progress report

3. Be a school leaver (Grade 12 in 2024 or 2025) or already enrolled in an undergraduate programme

4. Be applying to study in one of the preferred/compliant fields (economics, AI, engineering, etc.)

5. Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognized university in Namibia or SADC region

6. Undergo means testing, interviews, and internal selection, as the Bank uses merit plus financial need / other criteria.

Important Dates & Application Deadline

• Application Deadline: 31 October 2025

• Start Date: Corresponds with the next academic intake at approved universities after deadline is passed.

How to Apply

Here’s how you can apply for the bursary:

1. Go to the Bank of Namibia’s official bursary portal (or contact the bursaries department via email bursaries@bon.com.na) to obtain the application form.

2. Complete the application form fully and submit before the deadline.

3. Prepare and attach the required documents (see next section)

4. If shortlisted, undergo means test and interview process.

5. If you meet all conditions (final Grade 12 results, registration etc.), sign a contract with the Bank.

Documents Required

You will need to submit:

• Certified copy of Namibian ID / citizenship proof

• Grade 12 certificate / transcript (or latest academic results) or tertiary transcript for current students

• Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognized university

• Curriculum Vitae / resume

• Motivation letter expressing academic goals, field of interest, and financial need

• Proof of household income or financial documents (for means test)

• Any other supporting documents the Bank may request (letters of reference etc.)

Tips for a Strong Application

• Apply early, ensuring your documents are correctly certified and complete.

• Focus on fields of study that are priority, and align your motivation letter to national development / skills gap arguments.

• Show strong academic merit — high grades, especially in quantitative subject where applicable.

• If you’re a current student, ensure your academic progress report is positive.

• Prepare well for the interview — clarity about your academic and career plans helps.

Considerations & Conditions

• The bursary is merit + need-based; good grades alone may not guarantee award.

• Contract obligations: You have to comply with terms of the bursary (academic performance, possible post-study expectations)

• Residence: If studying outside Namibia (within SADC), travel and accommodation arrangements may be subject to certain conditions.

• Renewability depends on satisfactory academic performance and fulfilling conditions set by the Bank.

Why This Bursary Matters

• Removes financial barriers to higher education for capable students.

• Supports national development by funding fields needed for economic growth.

• Helps build human capital in Namibia and the broader SADC region.

• Encourages educated youth to contribute to development priorities and helps in narrowing skills gaps.

 Summary

The Bank of Namibia Undergraduate Bursary Scheme 2025-26 is a fully funded, merit and need-based opportunity for Namibian students seeking undergraduate education. With coverage of tuition, registration, accommodation, travel, and other key costs, it’s an excellent chance for those pursuing priority fields. If you meet the eligibility, prepare early, and apply before 31 October 2025, you stand a good chance of securing this scholarship.