Take Advantage of the 2026 FEM Bursary – A Chance for South African Students
The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) is offering a generous bursary to students who need help paying for university. If you’re a South African student looking to study engineering, construction or health science, this support can cover your tuition, textbooks, living costs and give you a monthly allowance. The deadline to apply is 15 November 2025, so read on to see if you qualify and how to get started.
Why the FEM Bursary Matters
FEM’s program focuses on people from families that don’t have a lot of money. The goal is to help them learn skills that will build South Africa’s future. The fields of study that get the most attention are:
- Engineering – anything from civil to mechanical to electrical.
- Built Environment – subjects like architecture, quantity surveying and construction management.
- Health Sciences – courses that train doctors, nurses, lab techs and other health workers.
These subjects are important for making jobs, building safer homes and keeping communities healthy.
What the Bursary Gives You
If you win, you’ll get a complete package:
- Full tuition – no more worrying about paying your university fees.
- Books – the required textbooks for your courses.
- Monthly stipend – extra money for day‑to‑day expenses.
- Living expenses – accommodation and meals may be included at FEM’s choice.
This package lets you focus on studies rather than bills.
Who Can Apply
You need to be a South African citizen and be enrolled full‑time at a public university. You must already have finished your first year of a bachelor’s program in one of the listed fields. Other key points:
- Your household’s yearly income must be R360,000 or less.
- You should have a strong academic record.
- All fees to your university must be paid – you can’t owe money to the school.
- Proof that you come from a disadvantaged background and that you need the help is required.
Documents You’ll Need
When you apply online, attach copies of these documents. Each one must be recent (no older than 3 months) and certified:
- ID copy – a copy of your South African ID.
- Academic record – your most recent grade report.
- Parents/guardians IDs – copies of their IDs.
- Proof of income for parents/guardians – this can be a recent payslip or bank statement if they’re employed. If they’re not, an affidavit or a proof of a SASSA grant, disability grant or pension may be accepted. If a parent is deceased or the family is divorced, the relevant death or divorce certificate can be submitted.
- Proof of other dependants – if any other students in your family are currently studying at university.
Gather these files ahead of time to avoid delays.
How to Submit Your Application
- Go to the FEM bursary portal online.
- Click the button that says “Apply Now for the FEM Bursary 2026” (the text will direct you to the page).
- Fill out the form and attach your documents.
- When the form asks how you found out about the bursary, type “www.zabursaries.co.za”.
If you get shortlisted, you’ll receive another form to finish. Remember, only full applications received before the closing date will be considered.
Key Dates
- Closing Date: 15 November 2025
Make sure your application is complete and on time. Late or incomplete submissions won’t be accepted.
A Final Thought
The FEM Bursary is a real chance to turn an ambition into reality. It is designed to lift students who would otherwise struggle to pay for university. If you meet the criteria, gather your documents, and apply before the deadline. Good luck!