The PSSA Bursary Supports Pharmacy Students Across SA

The PSSA Bursary, administered by the Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education under the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa, addresses critical skill shortages in the pharmaceutical sector by supporting capable and financially needy students pursuing pharmacy studies at accredited institutions. This national programme empowers students to complete their studies and become qualified professionals who strengthen healthcare systems and pharmaceutical services across the country.

By offering financial relief to both undergraduate and postgraduate pharmacy students, the bursary ensures that deserving individuals can focus on their academic journey without the burden of financial stress, while also becoming part of a respected professional body dedicated to advancing pharmaceutical education and practice.

Fields of Study Supported

Eligible fields include

Bachelor of Pharmacy, second year to final year

Master’s degrees in pharmacy-related disciplines

Doctoral studies in pharmacy-related research

Applicants must be studying full-time at accredited South African universities that offer recognised qualifications in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, applicants must

Be South African citizens with valid identification

Have completed their Matric qualification

Be enrolled full-time at an accredited South African university

Be registered in the second, third, or fourth year of a Bachelor of Pharmacy programme, or enrolled in a Master’s or Doctoral programme related to pharmacy

Be fully registered as student members of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa at the time of application

Undergraduate applicants must have successfully passed all previously completed modules and must have achieved a minimum of sixty percent average in their most recent mid-year examinations. Postgraduate applicants must submit a summary of their research proposal along with an academic recommendation from a supervisor or lecturer.

Applicants must also demonstrate financial need. Undergraduate applicants’ household income must not exceed one hundred and thirty thousand rand per annum before tax. Those receiving full bursary support from other organisations may not be eligible.

Failure to meet all requirements will result in disqualification. First-year undergraduate students are not eligible to apply.

What the Bursary Covers

The PSSA Bursary provides financial support for one academic year only. It covers tuition fees by paying directly to the institution. If funds allow, the bursary may also assist with additional study-related needs such as textbooks or other learning materials.

Each student must reapply every year to continue receiving support. The decision to renew the bursary is based on academic progress and continued financial need.

Selection and Assessment

For undergraduate applicants, selection is based on a balanced evaluation of financial need and academic merit. For postgraduate applicants, assessment is weighted sixty percent on the academic merit and viability of the proposed research project and forty percent on financial circumstances.

Applicants already receiving full funding from another bursary or scholarship will not be considered. However, those receiving partial financial support may still qualify depending on their level of need and the strength of their academic record.

The selection process is handled by the Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education, and its decision is final. No appeals or follow-up correspondence will be considered once results are communicated.

Obligations for Successful Recipients

Successful applicants are expected to maintain academic progress throughout the academic year. If a student discontinues or fails their course without valid reasons, the bursary amount for that year must be refunded to the Foundation.

All funds are paid directly to the student’s university. Once tuition and registration costs are settled, the remaining funds may be paid to the student to cover other academic expenses.

Students are also expected to inform the Foundation of any additional bursaries or financial support they receive during the year. These may influence eligibility or award size.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the official application form available from the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa. Along with the form, they must submit the following certified documents

South African identity document

Full academic transcript or latest mid-year results

Proof of registration at a recognised South African university

Motivational letter explaining financial need and commitment to the field

Proof of membership with the PSSA

Signed financial declaration form with supporting documents such as income proof or affidavits

Postgraduate applicants must also submit a brief research proposal, an itemised budget, and a letter of recommendation from their academic supervisor

Undergraduate applicants must submit their application by post or physical delivery to the Foundation’s office. Email and fax are not accepted for undergraduate applications. Postgraduate applications may be submitted via email or fax to the relevant Foundation contact person. Applicants should ensure their submission includes all documents, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Timeline and Deadlines

The deadline for both undergraduate and postgraduate bursary applications is 11 October 2025. Late applications or those missing any required documentation will not be accepted.

Postgraduate applications for the 2026 academic year are currently closed and are expected to reopen in March 2026. All decisions are communicated only to successful candidates. If an applicant does not receive a response by the final notification date, it should be considered an unsuccessful application.

Final Thoughts

The Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa Bursary presents a valuable opportunity for pharmacy students who are passionate about enhancing healthcare through professional pharmaceutical services. By covering tuition costs and supporting academic development, this bursary enables dedicated students to complete their studies and contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of communities across South Africa. If you are studying pharmacy and are committed to building a career in this critical sector, the PSSA Bursary may provide the support you need to succeed.