For South African students pursuing postgraduate studies, the Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary can serve as a helpful funding option for you.

This esteemed bursary program, established in 1981, has assisted countless individuals in achieving their academic dreams at both Master’s and Doctoral levels. 

About the Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary

The Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary provides financial support to deserving South African citizens undertaking postgraduate studies at accredited universities within the country.

The Trust, guided by the vision of its founders, emphasizes academic merit, financial need, and personal character when selecting recipients.

With a legacy of helping individuals through education, the Eriksen Trust Bursary can significantly reduce the financial load associated with postgraduate studies and make way for academic success.

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Application Form

Applications for the Eriksen Trust Bursary are conducted exclusively online through the Trust’s official website.

The application process opens annually on 1 August and closes on 30 September. You need to follow these deadlines, as applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

The application form itself includes various sections that request for personal details, academic qualifications, financial information, and essays.

It’s vital to complete each section properly and provide accurate information. Also, you’ll need to upload supporting documents, including:

  1. Certified copies of your latest academic transcripts
  2. Proof of university application or acceptance (official letterhead)
  3. A detailed breakdown of your family’s income and expenditure
  4. Three essays (maximum 1000 words each) addressing specific prompts provided on the application form

Remember, a well-crafted application that showcases your academic excellence, financial need, and personal motivation significantly increases your chances of success.

The Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the Eriksen Trust bursary, you must meet the following essential criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen
  2. Be pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree at a recognized South African university
  3. Demonstrate academic merit (strong academic record)
  4. Have a proven financial need
  5. Possess strong personal character and motivation

While academic merit is prioritized, the selection process also considers your financial circumstances and personal qualities.

Proving your financial need through a detailed breakdown of income and expenditure is important.

Moreover, showcasing your motivation through the essays paints a real picture of your aspirations and commitment to your studies.

The Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Closing Date

The application period for the Eriksen Trust Bursary opens on 1 August and closes definitively on 30 September each year.

Ensure you submit your complete application with all supporting documents before the closing date to be considered. Late submissions will not be accepted.

For any inquiries or clarifications regarding the Eriksen Trust Bursary, you can contact the Trust directly through email at [email protected].

However, for application-related questions, I highly recommend that you use the online contact form available on the Trust’s website as this ensures a timely and official response.