If you’re a student with a genuine passion for technology and a dream of building innovative software that changes lives, the BBD Bursary Programme 2026 could be your gateway to a fulfilling and impactful career. More than just financial support, this programme offers mentorship, exposure to real-world projects, and a foot in the door of one of South Africa’s leading software solutions companies.
This is your chance to turn your talent into a career that matters — whether you want to build education platforms that connect students, design secure banking systems, or create immersive game experiences.
Who Is BBD and Why They Matter in the IT World
BBD is not just another tech company. They are an international software solutions provider with over three decades of experience delivering cutting-edge digital solutions. Their work spans across key industries, including:
- Education – developing tools that improve learning accessibility.
- Financial services – building secure platforms for banks and insurers.
- Gaming – creating interactive, engaging, and high-performance game systems.
- Insurance – streamlining processes with automation and AI.
- Telecommunications – powering connectivity through advanced software.
- Public sector – enabling efficient service delivery with tech-driven solutions.
What sets BBD apart is not only their technical expertise but their commitment to solving real-world problems with innovation and creativity. By joining their bursary programme, you’re not just receiving funding — you’re aligning yourself with a company that shapes the digital future.
The Story Behind the Bursary & Beyond Programme
Many bursary programmes stop at paying tuition fees. The Bursary & Beyond Programme is different — it is designed as a career launchpad.
Think of it as a bridge between your university lectures and the professional world. While your degree equips you with theory and foundational knowledge, this programme connects you to:
- Real-world experience in building software solutions.
- Mentorship from seasoned IT professionals who have worked on global projects.
- Exposure to modern technology stacks that companies demand in the industry.
- A community of like-minded young developers who share your passion.
It’s more than funding — it’s an opportunity to grow into a professional ready to thrive in competitive IT environments.
Who Should Apply?
The bursary is targeted at talented South African students who are serious about a future in software development. If you fit into any of these categories, this programme could be for you:
- Current university students pursuing:
- BSc (Computer Science, Information Technology)
- BEng (Computer or Software Engineering)
- BCom (Information Systems or Informatics)
- BIS (Information Science, Multimedia)
- High school graduates who have been accepted to a recognised South African university for IT-related studies.
- Students at Honours, Masters, or Doctorate level with a focus on software development, game design, or information systems.
Minimum Requirements for BBD Bursars
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be currently studying or accepted to study an IT-related degree at a recognised South African university.
- Have a minimum academic average of:
- 70% in Matric (Grade 12 results), or
- 65% in current tertiary studies.
- Show a genuine passion for creating software — having personal coding projects to showcase is a bonus.
Application Checklist
Your application should be complete and professional. Here’s what you’ll need to include:
- Updated CV – highlighting academic achievements, tech skills, and any coding experience.
- Copy of your South African ID.
- Matric certificate – showing your final results.
- University acceptance letter – for first-year students.
- Latest academic transcripts – for current students.
- Portfolio of coding projects – such as a GitHub link or other platforms (if available).
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t have formal work experience, include school projects, hackathon participation, or self-taught coding work. This shows initiative and creativity — qualities BBD values.
Selection Process: More Than Just Marks
While academic excellence is important, BBD looks for students who live and breathe technology. They want people who can think critically, work in teams, and adapt to new tools quickly.
The selection process may include:
- Portfolio review – assessing your coding projects.
- Interviews – to understand your passion and goals.
- Background checks – including academic verification, credit checks, and criminal record checks (where applicable to the role).
Why Choose the BBD Bursary & Beyond Programme?
The name says it all — it’s beyond financial support. Here’s what you gain:
1. Tuition Coverage
Your academic costs are supported, allowing you to focus on your studies.
2. Mentorship
Learn from experienced developers who have worked on projects in finance, education, gaming, and telecoms.
3. Hands-On Experience
Get exposure to real-world software development while you’re still studying.
4. Networking Opportunities
Build relationships with industry professionals, fellow bursars, and potential future colleagues.
5. Pathway to Employment
Many bursars transition into full-time roles within BBD after graduation — giving you a head start in your career.
BBD’s Industry Reach: Your Future Projects Could Shape Millions of Lives
Imagine working on:
- A banking app used daily by millions of customers.
- An educational platform giving rural learners access to digital classrooms.
- A game development project that captures the imagination of players worldwide.
- Telecoms software that keeps families connected.
These are not far-off dreams. BBD actively works on these kinds of solutions, and as a bursar, you’ll be learning the skills to contribute meaningfully.
How to Make Your Application Stand Out
Since bursary opportunities like this attract many talented applicants, here are tips to increase your chances:
- Tailor your CV – Make sure it reflects your tech skills, coding languages, and project experience.
- Show your passion – Include a personal statement about why you want to work in IT.
- Keep your GitHub updated – If you share a link, make sure your code is neat, well-documented, and functional.
- Highlight teamwork – BBD values collaboration. Mention group projects, coding competitions, or community initiatives.
- SUBMIT APPLICATION
Application Deadline and Submission Process
BBD typically opens bursary applications months in advance to give students enough time to prepare. While exact deadlines for 2026 will be confirmed on their official website, early application is recommended.
Applications are usually submitted through BBD’s online portal or via email, depending on the year’s recruitment process. Always check the latest official instructions before sending your documents.
What Happens After You Apply
If shortlisted, you may be invited for:
- Technical assessment – to test problem-solving and coding ability.
- Interviews – either virtual or in-person.
- Final selection – based on your performance, academic record, and cultural fit.
Successful candidates will be contacted directly with further details.
Life After the BBD Bursary
Graduates of the programme often speak of how the mentorship and real-world exposure they received helped them transition smoothly into their first jobs.
Many have gone on to become:
- Software engineers
- Game developers
- Systems analysts
- IT consultants
- Project managers
The bursary is not just a scholarship — it’s the first chapter in a professional journey that could see you contributing to some of the most innovative projects in South Africa and beyond.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Future with BBD
The tech industry is one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic sectors in the world. For South African students passionate about software development, the BBD Bursary & Beyond Programme 2026 offers the tools, resources, and guidance to succeed.
It’s an investment in your skills, your future, and your potential to create technology that makes a difference. If you meet the requirements, gather your documents, polish your CV, and take the first step toward a career where your ideas can shape the world.
Quick Summary Table: BBD Bursary & Beyond Programme 2026
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Field of Study | IT-related degrees (Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Design, Informatics, etc.) |
| Minimum Academic Average | 70% (Matric) or 65% (Tertiary) |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Benefits | Tuition coverage, mentorship, networking, career opportunities |
| Additional Requirements | Passion for software development, portfolio/project showcase preferred |
| Application Materials | CV, ID, Matric certificate, University acceptance letter, transcripts, GitHub link (optional) |
| Industry Sectors Covered | Education, Finance, Gaming, Insurance, Telecoms, Public sector |
