Imfundo Trust Scholarship 2025: Full Funding for South African Students in Business, Finance & Tech Fields | Apply Now

Are you a talented South African student looking for financial support to pursue your undergraduate or postgraduate studies?

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship program, offered by Old Mutual Investment Group, could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Imfundo Trust Scholarships for the 2025 academic year, including eligibility requirements, application process, selection criteria, and more.

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What is the Imfundo Trust Scholarship?

Imfundo Trust Scholarship 2025: Full Funding for South African Students in Business, Finance & Tech Fields | Apply Now

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship is an initiative by Old Mutual Investment Group aimed at providing funding for promising black South African students, with a particular focus on women, to pursue tertiary education at select universities across the country.

Established in 2011, the trust’s name “Imfundo” means “education” in Nguni languages, reflecting its core mission of empowering students through educational opportunities.

The scholarship program is designed to support the transformation of the investments industry by developing a diverse pool of talented professionals.

By offering financial assistance to students interested in fields related to investments, finance, and technology, the Imfundo Trust aims to create a more inclusive and representative workforce in these sectors.

Key Features of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship

• Full funding for undergraduate and selected postgraduate degree programs
• Focus on black South African students, particularly women
• Emphasis on rural and township applicants
• Covers a wide range of study fields relevant to the investments industry
• Comprehensive financial support including tuition, accommodation, and study materials

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. South African citizenship

• Strong academic performance:For Grade 12 students: Minimum 70% average in mid-year exams, with at least 70% in Mathematics and 70% in English FAL (or 60% in English HL)
• For current university students: Minimum 65% average in latest exams

1. Enrolling in first or second year of study in 2025 (except for Climate Studies postgraduate applicants)
2. Studying full-time at an accredited South African university
3. Pursuing a degree in one of the specified fields of study

Fields of Study Covered

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship supports students in the following areas:

• Business and Commerce
• Finance
• Management Sciences/Studies
• Computer Science and related qualifications (e.g., Computational Thinking)
• Data Science
• Engineering
• Climate Studies (postgraduate only)

These fields have been carefully selected to align with the needs of the investments industry and related sectors, ensuring that scholarship recipients are well-positioned for future career opportunities.

Application Process

To apply for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship for the 2025 academic year, follow these steps:

1. Visit the StudyTrust online application platform: StudyTrust Application Portal
2. Create an account or log in if you already have one
3. Complete the online application form, providing all required information
4. Upload necessary supporting documents (more details below)
5. Submit your application before the deadline of October 10, 2024

Important: Be sure to read all instructions carefully on the StudyTrust Bursary Applications page before starting your application.

Required Documents

When applying for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID

• Latest academic results:For Grade 12 students: Mid-year exam results
• For university students: Most recent exam results

1. Proof of registration or acceptance letter from your chosen university (if available)
2. Motivational letter explaining your interest in your chosen field of study and career aspirations
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting any relevant experiences or achievements
4. Proof of household income (if applicable for means testing)

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and properly certified where required.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship is rigorous and competitive. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial screening of applications to ensure all eligibility criteria are met
2. Academic performance review
3. Shortlisting of candidates based on academic merit and other factors
4. Interviews with shortlisted candidates
5. Final selection by the Board of Trustees, considering interview outcomes and other relevant factors

Preference will be given to applicants from rural and township backgrounds, in line with the trust’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the investments industry.

What the Scholarship Covers

Successful applicants of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship will receive comprehensive financial support, including:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation costs (on-campus or off-campus)
• Textbooks and other essential study materials
• Possible stipend for living expenses (subject to individual circumstances)

The exact coverage may vary depending on the specific needs of each scholar and the policies of their chosen institution.

Tips for a Successful Application

To increase your chances of securing an Imfundo Trust Scholarship, consider the following tips:

1. Start your application early to allow ample time for gathering documents and completing the form
2. Ensure your academic results meet or exceed the minimum requirements
3. Craft a compelling motivational letter that showcases your passion for your chosen field and future career goals
4. Highlight any leadership experiences, community involvement, or relevant extracurricular activities in your CV
5. Double-check all information and documents for accuracy before submitting
6. Prepare thoroughly for the interview stage by researching the investments industry and Old Mutual Investment Group

The Importance of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship plays a crucial role in addressing several key challenges in South Africa:

1. Access to Higher Education: By providing comprehensive financial support, the scholarship removes economic barriers that prevent many talented students from pursuing tertiary education.
2. Industry Transformation: The focus on developing black professionals, particularly women, contributes to creating a more diverse and representative workforce in the investments and related industries.
3. Skills Development: By supporting studies in fields crucial to the modern economy, such as finance, data science, and engineering, the scholarship helps build the skills base needed for South Africa’s economic growth.
4. Social Mobility: For many recipients, especially those from rural and township backgrounds, the scholarship offers a pathway to break the cycle of poverty and achieve upward social mobility.
5. Empowering Future Leaders: Through its comprehensive support and industry connections, the scholarship program nurtures not just graduates, but future leaders who can drive innovation and positive change in their fields.

Preparing for a Career in Investments

While the Imfundo Trust Scholarship provides excellent financial support and opportunities, it’s important for recipients to actively prepare for their future careers in the investments industry.

Here are some tips for scholarship recipients and aspiring applicants:

1. Stay Informed: Keep up with current events and trends in the financial markets and investment world. Read financial news, follow industry leaders on social media, and consider subscribing to relevant publications.
2. Develop Soft Skills: In addition to technical knowledge, the investments industry values skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Look for opportunities to develop these skills through group projects, presentations, and extracurricular activities.
3. Seek Internships: Use your status as an Imfundo Trust Scholar to secure internships or vacation work at financial institutions. These experiences can provide valuable insights and help you build a professional network.
4. Join Relevant Student Organizations: Many universities have finance clubs or investment societies. Joining these groups can provide networking opportunities and practical experience in areas like stock trading simulations.
5. Consider Professional Certifications: Research professional certifications relevant to your chosen career path, such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program. While you may not be able to complete these while studying, understanding the requirements can help you plan for the future.
6. Develop Technical Skills: Proficiency in tools like Excel, programming languages (e.g., Python), and financial modeling software can give you an edge in the job market.
7. Build a Professional Online Presence: Create a LinkedIn profile and start building your professional network. Share relevant content and engage with industry discussions to establish yourself as a knowledgeable and engaged future professional.

The Role of Old Mutual Investment Group

As the sponsor of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship, Old Mutual Investment Group plays a significant role in shaping the program and supporting its scholars. Here’s how the company contributes to the scholarship initiative:

1. Funding: Old Mutual Investment Group provides the financial backing for the scholarship program, demonstrating its commitment to education and industry transformation.
2. Mentorship: The company may offer mentorship opportunities, connecting scholars with experienced professionals in the investments industry.
3. Internships: Scholarship recipients may have preferential access to internship opportunities within Old Mutual Investment Group and its partner organizations.
4. Industry Insights: Through events, workshops, and other engagements, scholars can gain valuable insights into the workings of a major investment firm and the broader industry.
5. Career Guidance: The company may provide career counseling and guidance to help scholars make informed decisions about their future in the investments sector.
6. Network Building: Association with Old Mutual Investment Group can help scholars build a professional network even before they graduate, potentially opening doors for future career opportunities.

By leveraging these resources and opportunities, Imfundo Trust Scholars can gain a significant advantage as they prepare to enter the competitive world of investments and finance.

Giving Back: The Ripple Effect of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship

One of the most powerful aspects of the Imfundo Trust Scholarship is its potential to create a ripple effect of positive change. As scholars graduate and enter the workforce, they are encouraged to give back to their communities and help create opportunities for others.

Here are some ways Imfundo Trust Scholars can pay it forward:

1. Mentoring: Become a mentor to younger students, especially those from similar backgrounds, who aspire to careers in finance and investments.
2. Community Engagement: Use your skills and knowledge to support financial literacy initiatives in underserved communities.
3. Alumni Network: Stay connected with other Imfundo Trust Scholars, creating a supportive network that can provide guidance and opportunities to future generations of scholars.
4. Advocacy: Use your voice and position to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the investments industry.
5. Innovation: Apply your skills and knowledge to develop financial products or services that address the needs of underserved communities.

By embracing these opportunities to give back, Imfundo Trust Scholars can help create a more inclusive and equitable financial sector, amplifying the impact of the scholarship program far beyond individual careers.

Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity

The Imfundo Trust Scholarship represents a life-changing opportunity for talented South African students to pursue their dreams of higher education and a career in the dynamic world of investments and finance.

By providing comprehensive financial support, industry connections, and a platform for personal and professional growth, the scholarship program is helping to shape the future leaders of South Africa’s financial sector.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about making a difference in the world of finance, don’t miss this chance to apply for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship for the 2025 academic year.

Remember, the application deadline is October 10, 2024, so start preparing your application today!

To begin your application journey, visit the StudyTrust Application Portal and take the first step towards a bright future in the investments industry.

Good luck to all applicants, and may your dedication and hard work be rewarded with the opportunity to become an Imfundo Trust Scholar!

Apply Now for the Imfundo Trust Scholarship

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. All details about the Imfundo Trust Scholarship are subject to change. Please refer to the official StudyTrust and Old Mutual Investment Group websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the scholarship program.