First Rand Empowerment Foundation Bursary Programme

The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation is excited to announce its 2025 bursary programme, offering financial support to outstanding South African students. This bursary is designed to assist students pursuing undergraduate degrees in key fields, helping to develop a new generation of skilled professionals in South Africa. Through this initiative, the Foundation aims to provide the resources needed for students to achieve academic success and ultimately contribute to the growth of the country’s economy and workforce.

Fields of Study Eligible for the FirstRand Bursary

The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation offers bursaries for students studying in a wide range of fields. These include Agricultural Sciences, with bursaries available for all specializations within the discipline. Arts students pursuing a degree in Psychology are also eligible. The bursary extends to students in Commercial Sciences, such as Accounting, Actuarial Science, Economics, and Financial Management. Engineering students across all specializations are invited to apply, as are students in Environmental Sciences, particularly those focused on Climate Sciences and Renewable Energy. Students in the Information Sciences field, including those studying Business Information Systems, Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Management, and Information Technology, are also eligible. The Mathematical Sciences area, encompassing Mathematics, Risk, and Statistics, is another focus of the bursary. Students in Natural Sciences, particularly those studying Biosciences, Electronics, and Physics, can apply as well. Finally, the bursary is available to students in Social Sciences and Law, with fields such as Society and Sustainability, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and Law eligible for funding.

FirstRand Bursary Coverage

The FirstRand bursary provides comprehensive financial support to cover essential academic expenses. This includes full coverage of tuition fees and learning resources, ensuring that students have access to the materials they need for success. First-year students will also receive a laptop to assist with their studies. The bursary covers accommodation and meals for students who require these benefits. Additionally, a monthly stipend is provided to help students with their living expenses, offering the financial freedom to focus on their studies without distraction.

FirstRand Bursary Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation bursary, applicants must meet several criteria. Candidates must be South African citizens and be 21 years old or younger during their first year of study. Applicants must either be currently in Matric or have completed Matric within the past three years. A key requirement for the bursary is that applicants must have achieved at least Level 5 in Mathematics in their Matric exams. Furthermore, applicants must intend to pursue a full-time undergraduate degree in one of the eligible fields listed above in 2025. They must have also applied to a South African public university and received provisional admission for the 2025 academic year. Additionally, applicants must come from a family with a combined annual income of no more than R600,000.

How to Apply for the FirstRand Bursary

The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation bursary is an excellent opportunity for ambitious South African students who are looking to build a successful career in their chosen field. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about pursuing your academic goals, apply now for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary Programme 2025. This bursary is your chance to receive the financial support you need to succeed and create a brighter future for yourself and your community.