The Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust was established in the early 1980s by Ethel Eriksen to provide study grants (bursaries) to South African students undertaking postgraduate study (Master’s or Doctorate) at a South African university. 

The Trust invites applications for the 2026 academic year, and the scheme remains active.

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this bursary, applicants must meet the following key criteria:

  1. Be a citizen of South Africa.
  2. Be registered, or intend to register, for full-time postgraduate study (Master’s or Doctorate) at a recognised South African university.
  3. Have completed an Honours degree (or equivalent) before applying.
  4. Possess a strong academic record.
  5. Be able to cover any shortfall in study costs (the bursary is partial and not full funding).

There is no restriction on the field of study, sex, or race.

What the Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Covers

  1. The bursary provides a partial award, up to a maximum of R 20,000 per annum (based on recent listings) for one academic year at a time.
  2. It is payable directly to the university where the recipient is studying.
  3. The bursary does not guarantee full cover of tuition, accommodation, or living costs; recipients must arrange additional funding or cover part themselves.

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Application Process

Here are the general steps to apply:

  1. Visit the official Trust website (the “Apply” page) and register or create an account to complete the online application.
  2. Fill in the full application form with personal, academic, financial, and proposed study details.
  3. Prepare supporting documentation (see next section) and attach/upload/submit as required. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
  4. Submit your application before the closing date (see next section). Late applications will not be considered.
  5. Wait for decision: applicants will be informed of the outcome (by the end of December of that year) if successful or not.

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Required Documents

Typical required documents include:

  1. Certified copy of South African ID document.
  2. Academic transcript and certificates, including Honours degree certificate.
  3. Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised South African university for the upcoming Master’s/Doctorate.
  4. Breakdown of income and expenditure (budget) showing the amount you are applying for, your financial need, and other funding sources.
  5. Some essays (e.g., about your background, achievements, study goals, and future vision) are required as specified in the online application process.
  6. At least two academic/reference letters (on prescribed forms).

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Closing Date

Applications for the 2026 academic year are closed. Applications for the 2027 academic year will open on 1 August 2026 

Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary Contact Details 

FAQs

1. What is the Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary?
It is a postgraduate funding scheme offering study grants to South African students who are pursuing Master’s or Doctorate degrees at a recognised South African university.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be South African citizens, have completed an Honours degree, and be registered or intending to register for a full-time Master’s or Doctorate at a South African university.
3. Which fields of study are accepted?
All fields of study are accepted. There is no restriction on discipline for this bursary.
4. What does the bursary cover?
It provides a partial award (up to roughly R20 000 per annum) that is paid to the university. Recipients must arrange for remaining study costs themselves.
5. When is the closing date?
The closing date for the 2026 intake is 30 September 2025. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
6. What documents are required?
Documents typically include certified ID, transcript and degree certificate, proof of registration/acceptance for postgraduate study, budget breakdown, essays and academic references.
7. Can I apply if I am already studying abroad?
No. The study must be at a recognised South African university and the applicant must comply with full-time registration at that institution.
8. Is the bursary renewable each year?
Yes, awards are given for one academic year at a time, and recipients must reapply for each subsequent year as funding is not guaranteed beyond the first year.
9. Does the bursary guarantee full funding?
No. This bursary is partial and recipients must secure additional funding or cover some costs themselves.
10. Where can I get more information and the application form?
Visit the official Trust website or email the Trust at [email protected] for the application link and latest guidelines.

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

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