FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary SA

The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (FREF), established in 2005 as part of FirstRand Limited’s broad-based black economic empowerment initiative, plays a crucial role in advancing equity and access to economic opportunities in South Africa. Focused on reducing poverty and inequality, FREF directs its resources towards public benefit activities that align with national empowerment objectives.

With leadership that predominantly includes black professionals under the Financial Sector Charter, the Foundation actively contributes to inclusive growth by investing in education and community development.

About the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary Programme

Applications are now open for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Undergraduate Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This initiative is designed to support young South African students pursuing studies in critical skill areas.

Fields Covered

Bursaries are available for undergraduate degree programmes in the following fields:

• Agricultural Sciences: All specialisations
• Arts: Psychology
• Commercial Sciences: Accounting, Actuarial Science, Economics, Financial Management
• Engineering: All specialisations
• Environmental Sciences: Climate Sciences, Renewable Energy
• Information Sciences: Business Information Systems, Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Management, Information Technology
• Mathematical Sciences: Mathematics, Risk, Statistics
• Natural Sciences: Biosciences, Electronics, Physics
• Social Sciences and Law: Society and Sustainability, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Law

What the Bursary Covers

The bursary provides comprehensive financial support for eligible students, covering:

• Tuition fees
• Learning materials and resources
• A computer (for first-year students)
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Monthly stipend

Who Should Apply

To qualify, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be classified as Black under the BBBEE Act
• Must be 21 years or younger in their first year of study
• Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric within the past three years
• Must have achieved at least level 5 in Mathematics
• Must have a strong academic record
• Must intend to study full-time towards a first undergraduate degree in a listed field
• Must be entering the first year of study in 2026
• Must have applied for and received provisional admission to a public university in South Africa
• Must come from a family with a combined gross annual income not exceeding R600 000

Note: Postgraduate funding may be considered only in special cases where it is essential for career access.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Before applying, candidates must review the Study Trust Bursary Applications Page. Applicants will also need to upload the following documents:

• Recent clear photograph (head and shoulders)
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Grade 11 final results and Matric June results (for current Matrics)
• Matric certificate (if completed)
• Proof of university acceptance for 2026
• Proof of household income:
  • Payslips or affidavits for the unemployed
  • Bank statements or audited financials for self-employed
  • SASSA letters for grant recipients
• Death certificates (if parents are deceased)
• Court letter or affidavit for child support (if applicable)

Closing Date

The deadline to apply for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary is 30 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered.