Act now – the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) is accepting applications for its 2027 bursary programme, and the deadline for undergraduate funding is only a few weeks away.
What the bursary offers
The PSSA, together with the Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (FPE), will fund South African students who are studying pharmacy. Funding is available for:
- Undergraduate BPharm studies (second, third or fourth year)
- Post‑graduate Master’s and Doctoral programmes in pharmacy‑related fields (applications reopen in May 2027)
The award covers one academic year at a time. If you need support for another year, you must re‑apply.
Who can apply
To be eligible for the undergraduate bursary you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed Matric
- Be studying full‑time for a BPharm degree at a recognised South African university
- Enter your 2nd, 3rd or 4th year of study in 2027
- Be a free PSSA student member
Post‑graduate applicants must also be South African citizens, hold an undergraduate degree, study full‑time for a Master’s or Doctorate in a pharmacy‑related subject, and agree to the bursary terms.
What you gain
- Financial assistance for tuition, textbooks and living costs (does not cover existing loans)
- Recognition from a leading professional body in the pharmacy sector
- Networking opportunities with the PSSA community
- Improved chances of securing a pharmacy role after graduation
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Join the PSSA as a student member (free). Use the links below for details and the online registration form.
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Full academic transcript
- Motivational letter from a pharmacy lecturer
- Financial declaration with proof of household income (payslips, balance sheet, affidavit or pension statement)
- Complete the online application form and upload the certified documents.
- Submit the form before 5 October 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
- Wait for an email confirming receipt. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show clear financial need and explain how the bursary will help you finish your degree.
- Highlight strong academic results and any relevant pharmacy experience.
- Ensure all copies are certified and legible; originals are not required.
- Double‑check that the financial declaration is signed by both you and your sponsor.
- Read the SAAHIP postgraduate bursary guidelines if you plan to apply later (they reopen in May 2027).
Next steps
Apply online now: PSSA Undergraduate Bursary 2027 application form
For membership information and registration:
If you have questions, contact the bursary administrator:
Ms Nitsa Manolis – FPE Administrator
Phone: 012 470 9562
Email: nitsa@pssa.org.za
Quick overview
| Bursary detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Provider | Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) |
| Funding body | Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (FPE) |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Undergraduate field | BPharm |
| Study years funded | 2nd, 3rd, 4th year |
| Postgraduate fields | Pharmacy‑related Master’s & Doctoral |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Study mode | Full‑time |
| Undergraduate deadline | 5 Oct 2026 |
| Postgraduate applications | Closed – reopen May 2027 |
| Application method | Online |
