Need help paying for university? The FEM Bursary Programme is open for South African students right now, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the FEM Bursary Programme offers
The bursary is designed for talented learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. It helps reduce the cost of tertiary study in fields that match FEM’s work – Engineering, the Built Environment and Health Sciences. The funding is for the 2027 academic year and is available across South Africa for full‑time undergraduate students.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- You are a South African citizen.
- You study full‑time at a public university or an approved institution in South Africa.
- You are enrolled in an undergraduate programme in Engineering, Built Environment or Health Sciences.
- You have successfully completed your first year of study.
- You have a strong academic record and no outstanding university fees.
- Your household earns no more than R360 000 per year and you can demonstrate genuine financial need.
- You are unable to fund your own studies.
First‑year students and postgraduate students are not eligible. Preference is given to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds.
What you will receive
The bursary may cover:
- Full tuition fees.
- Prescribed textbooks.
- A monthly stipend for living costs.
- Additional costs at FEM’s discretion.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all required documents (see the list below).
- Visit the official application portal: Apply for the FEM Bursary South Africa 2027.
- Complete the online form and upload the certified copies of your documents.
- Submit before the closing date – 16 November 2026.
- If you are shortlisted, you may be asked to fill in an additional form.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your most recent academic transcript.
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Death certificate (if a parent or guardian is deceased).
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income – latest payslips, bank statements, or an affidavit if unemployed or working informally.
- Proof of any SASSA, disability or other grants, pensions, or a divorce certificate where relevant.
- If other dependants are studying, proof of their registration.
All certified documents must be dated within the last three months.
Tips to improve your chances
- Check that every document is clear, legible and properly certified.
- Write a concise personal statement that explains your career goals and why you need financial help.
- Proofread your application for spelling or grammatical errors.
- Submit early – avoid last‑minute technical glitches.
- Read the FEM Bursary FAQs before contacting anyone with questions.
Next steps
Apply online before 16 November 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. If you have questions, you can call FEM on 011 359 4300 or email enquiries@fema.co.za or info@fem.co.za. Good luck – taking this step could change the course of your education and career.
