Absa has officially reopened applications for its 2025/2026 CSI Trust Graduate Historical Debt Relief Programme, a funding initiative designed to help eligible graduates settle outstanding historical debt so they can finally receive their academic certificates. For thousands of South Africans who have completed their studies but cannot graduate because of unpaid fees, this programme offers a rare second chance to move forward in their careers.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of who qualifies, the documents required, and how to submit an application before the deadline.
Why This Programme Matters
Over the past decade, student debt has remained one of the biggest barriers preventing young South Africans from transitioning into the workforce. Many graduates finish their studies successfully but cannot access their official certificates, transcripts, or graduation ceremonies due to outstanding university fees.
The Absa CSI Trust Graduate Historical Debt Relief Intervention aims to directly address this challenge by helping graduates who have already completed recognised qualifications in high-demand fields. These include:
- STEM disciplines
- Digital Economy qualifications
- Green Economy fields
The initiative focuses on graduates whose talents are vital for South Africa’s future labour market, but whose progress has stalled because they cannot obtain proof of their qualifications.
Facilitated in partnership with the Feenix Trust, the programme not only clears remaining debt but also links beneficiaries to employment pipelines, including placements through the Youth Employment Service (YES).
Participating Universities
Only graduates from the following institutions may apply:
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of Venda (UNIVEN)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
The focus on these universities reflects Absa’s continued investment in under-resourced communities and institutions serving large numbers of financially vulnerable students.
Who Can Apply?
The initiative is not open to current students. It is strictly for individuals who have already completed their degrees but cannot graduate because of unpaid fees.
Useful Links:
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have completed a degree in a STEM, Digital Economy or Green Economy field
- Must not be currently studying
- Must have studied at UL, UNIVEN, TUT, MUT, or UNIZULU
- Must be unable to graduate due to outstanding historical student debt
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Household income must be below R700 000 per year
These criteria ensure the funding reaches graduates who demonstrably need financial intervention to unlock employment opportunities.
Benefits of the Programme
This debt-relief initiative provides several life-changing advantages:
1. Clearance of Outstanding University Fees
The Absa CSI Trust settles qualifying historical debt through the Feenix Trust, allowing beneficiaries to finally access their:
- Degree certificates
- Academic records
- Graduation status
2. Improved Access to Employment
Graduates without certificates often struggle to secure formal employment. Once the debt is cleared, beneficiaries gain immediate access to documentation needed for:
- Employment applications
- Professional registrations
- Postgraduate studies
3. Employment Opportunities via YES
Eligible graduates may be connected to Youth Employment Service (YES) placements, offering:
- 12-month work experience
- Work readiness training
- Improved employability in high-demand industries
4. Contribution to the Broader Economy
By supporting graduates in high-growth fields, the programme strengthens South Africa’s skills pipeline for:
- Engineering
- Science and research
- Renewable energy
- Technology and digital innovation
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must upload certified copies (not older than six months) of the following:
1. South African Identity Document
A clear certified ID copy is required for citizenship verification.
2. Official Proof of Completion
This can be a letter of completion or any document from the university confirming that all academic requirements have been met.
3. Completed EEA1 Form
Instructions include:
- Write your full name under “Name of Employee”
- Use your university student number under “Employee workplace number”
Incomplete or incorrectly filled EEA1 forms may delay assessment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official Feenix portal.
Application Link
Absa Debt Relief Programme Application
https://bursaries.feenix.org/absa/apply-now/
When asked, “How did you hear about this programme?” applicants are advised to enter:
This helps improve programme tracking and outreach.
Closing Date
1 December 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Because verification takes time, applicants are advised to apply early and ensure all documents are properly certified.
Why This Programme Is Important for the Future
South Africa continues to face a national skills shortage, especially in fields linked to technology, innovation, engineering, and sustainability. Many capable young graduates remain locked out of opportunities simply because of outstanding historical debt.
The Absa CSI Trust Graduate Historical Debt Relief Programme does more than clear fees; it restores opportunities, restores dignity, and supports the country’s long-term economic development.
This initiative aligns with broader national strategies aimed at reducing youth unemployment, strengthening the STEM and digital workforce, and ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented graduates from contributing to the country’s progress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can current students apply?
No. Only graduates who have completed their studies but cannot receive certificates due to unpaid debt may apply.
2. Does this programme cover all fields of study?
No. It focuses on degrees linked to the STEM, Digital Economy, and Green Economy sectors.
3. Can I apply if I owe debt but have my certificate?
No. The purpose of the programme is to assist graduates who cannot graduate because their certificates are withheld.
4. Does the programme offer cash payments?
No. Payments are made directly to the university through the Feenix Trust.
5. Are postgraduate qualifications included?
Yes, provided they fall within the eligible fields and all other criteria are met.
6. Will an interview be required?
Some applicants may undergo an additional verification process.
Final Thoughts
The Absa CSI Trust Graduate Historical Debt Relief Programme remains one of the country’s most impactful interventions for students who have completed their qualifications but remain stuck because of historical fees. With the 1 December 2025 deadline approaching, eligible graduates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
If you meet the criteria, this could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
