Coronation Fund Managers

About Coronation Fund Managers

Coronation Fund Managers is one of the largest independent asset managers in South Africa. It was founded in Cape Town in 1993 and is listed on the JSE. The firm looks after retirement savings, medical scheme reserves and other investments for institutions and individuals. Its assets under management run into the hundreds of billions of rand.

Coronation was the first South African asset manager to comply with the Global Investment Performance Standards. That reflects a business built on long-term, research-driven decisions rather than short-term trading.

How Coronation supports students

The firm funds the Exceptional Student Bursary Programme. Its purpose is to spot and develop future investment professionals early. The programme backs academically strong, well-rounded students from disadvantaged backgrounds who plan to study approved undergraduate degrees.

Preference goes to commerce and finance, as well as data analysis, information technology, computer science, and software or computer engineering. Support goes beyond money. Recipients can expect academic and development support, contact with Coronation professionals, and exposure to the investment industry. Final details of the costs covered are confirmed in each successful applicant's award letter.

Funding is reviewed every year. Renewal depends on academic results, active participation in the programme, compliance with the bursary agreement and the availability of sponsor funding.

What to know before applying

Applicants must be South African citizens. Matric students need an overall average of at least 75%, and current university students need at least 70%. You must study full time towards an undergraduate degree at an accredited South African university. Coronation also looks for leadership. Diplomas, postgraduate study, distance learning and study abroad fall outside the programme.

Prepare for the later stages early. Interviews and psychometric assessments are part of the process, so practise numerical and logical reasoning tests and think of examples that show leadership. Investment careers reward curiosity, discipline and clear thinking. Coronation wants to see those traits in school and university life, as well as strong marks. Compared with many other bursaries, the programme is selective, so give your application time and care.

Work-back is a key condition. After graduating, bursars enter a work-back agreement with Coronation and work for one year for each year of funding they received. As a result, treat the bursary as a long-term commitment as well as financial help.

The selection process starts with an online application. Shortlisted applicants then face interviews and psychometric assessments. The 2027 round closed at midday on 19 August 2026. Dates and criteria can change, so confirm everything on the official Coronation website before you apply.