Clicks Foundation Bursary South Africa | Complete Guide

The Clicks Foundation Bursary is a well-recognised educational funding opportunity in South Africa aimed at assisting deserving students who are pursuing tertiary studies in healthcare, pharmacy, science, and related fields. The bursary is supported by the Clicks Group, one of the country’s leading retail healthcare and pharmacy chains, through its philanthropic arm the Clicks Foundation.

This bursary is designed to reduce the financial barriers that many students face, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while nurturing future healthcare professionals, scientists, and specialists who can contribute to improved healthcare outcomes across South Africa.

About Foundation Bursary

The Clicks Foundation Bursary is a tertiary funding programme that provides financial support to eligible South African students enrolled, or intending to enrol, in qualifying academic programmes at recognised universities, universities of technology, or similar institutions. It focuses on study fields that align with the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and scientific sectors areas where skills are in high demand.

The bursary aims not only to support academic progression but also to foster a new generation of professionals who reflect the values and community service ethos of the Clicks Foundation and the wider healthcare environment.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Clicks Foundation Bursary, applicants generally need to meet the following criteria:

• South African citizenship applicants must hold a valid South African ID.
• Academic readiness strong academic results (Matric or tertiary results) that match the requirements of the chosen qualification.
• Field relevance the chosen qualification must be in one of the approved study areas (detailed below).
• Full-time study status applicants should be enrolled or intending to enrol for full-time study at an accredited South African institution.
• Not repeating the same level typically not for students repeating a qualification level.

Documentation such as certified academic records, proof of acceptance/registration, a motivational letter, and proof of financial need (where applicable) are usually required.

Qualifying Fields of Study

The Clicks Foundation Bursary supports students in a range of health-related and scientific disciplines that align with the organisation’s focus on healthcare access, patient wellbeing, and medical services. Typical qualifying fields include:

Healthcare & Pharmacy

• Pharmacy
• Pharmacology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Health Sciences

Medical & Allied Health Sciences

• Nursing
• Biomedical Technology
• Clinical Technology
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapy

Science & Laboratory Studies

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Analytical Chemistry

These study areas contribute directly to the delivery of healthcare services and the scientific capacity needed in clinical settings and community support environments.

What the Bursary Covers

Recipients of the Clicks Foundation Bursary may receive financial support that includes:

Tuition & Academic Fees

• Tuition fees for the duration of the approved qualification
• Payment of registration and examination fees

Living & Study Support

• Study material allowances to assist with books and educational resources
• Monthly stipends to support living expenses
• Transport or accommodation contributions, where applicable

The bursary amount and components may vary depending on individual need assessments and the specific terms of each intake.

Required Documents

When applying, candidates will normally need to provide:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Latest academic results or transcripts
• Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised institution
• Motivational letter
• Proof of financial need (if applicable)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

All supporting documents usually must be certified within three months of the application date.

How to Apply

The application process typically involves the following steps:

1. Check the Official Opening

Monitor announcements from the Clicks Foundation or approved bursary portals for when the bursary opens.

2. Complete the Online Application Form

Fill out the official bursary form thoroughly and accurately.

3. Upload Supporting Documents

Ensure all required documentation is attached in the correct format.

4. Submit Before Deadline

Submit your application before the bursary closing date — late submissions are generally not accepted.

5. Shortlisting and Assessment

Applications are reviewed and shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further evaluation.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Academic performance in relevant subjects
• Alignment of the chosen field of study with the bursary’s focus areas
• Strength and clarity of the motivational letter
• Completeness of documentation
• Evidence of financial need (if required)

The bursary committee looks for applicants who show both academic promise and a genuine interest in a healthcare or health-related vocation.

Responsible Use of Funds & Expectations

The Clicks Foundation Bursary is designed to support students throughout their studies. Recipients are generally expected to:

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress
• Provide proof of registration and results annually
• Comply with any reporting requirements set by the bursary programme

While there is typically no formal work-back obligation, maintaining high academic standards and using the funding responsibly is expected. In some cases, bursary holders may be offered opportunities for internships or practical exposure related to healthcare environments.

Tips for a Successful Application

To enhance your chances:

• Prepare all documentation well before the deadline and ensure it is certified.
• Write a clear and personal motivational letter explaining your career goals in healthcare or science.
• Choose your field of study carefully and ensure it aligns with the bursary’s areas of focus.
• Demonstrate commitment to your chosen field through previous academic results or related activities.

Why the Clicks Foundation Bursary Matters

The Clicks Foundation Bursary helps to bridge financial gaps that often hinder academically promising students from completing health-related qualifications. By providing financial support and encouraging growth within key healthcare disciplines, the bursary contributes to:

• Improving access to tertiary education
• Strengthening South Africa’s healthcare workforce
• Supporting community health initiatives
• Empowering students to become future healthcare leaders

For students passionate about health sciences, pharmacy, clinical work, or laboratory science, this bursary can be a stepping stone toward a rewarding and impactful career.