The Fairtree Bursary Programme is a South African initiative by Fairtree, aimed at supporting ambitious undergraduates who share the values of excellence, growth, and integrity. 

Through this bursary, the company seeks to partner with talented young people and help them enter and thrive in the fields of finance, economics, and investments. 

The programme builds on Fairtree’s commitment to youth and skills development since 2003.

What the Fairtree Bursary Covers

The bursary covers full university tuition, prescribed books, and other academic support. 

There is also the possibility of employment at Fairtree upon successful completion of studies. 

This is framed as a partnership: Fairtree will mentor and guide recipients, while recipients must keep Fairtree updated on their academic progress.

Fairtree Bursary Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  1. Must be a South African citizen with a valid South African ID.
  2. Must have achieved a minimum average of 65% or higher in Grade 12 (Matric).
  3. Must have been accepted to an accredited South African university.
  4. Must demonstrate financial need.
    If the applicant is still in Matric, they must include a certified copy of their latest June exam results and later submit final certified Matric results. Strong performance in English and at least two other subjects is required.
    If the applicant is already enrolled at a tertiary institution, they may apply by including their most recent academic records.

Fairtree Bursary Application Process

To apply, applicants must visit the official application portal and submit:

  1. A completed application form.
  2. A certified copy of their ID document.
  3. Academic records (for Matric or tertiary registration).
  4. Documentation of non‑academic achievements (such as sport, leadership or community involvement).
  5. A testimonial letter from a teacher or lecturer.
  6. A breakdown of study‑related expenses, including tuition, and evidence of financial need.
  7. Official acceptance letter from the university confirming the course of study.
  8. Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
    Fairtree may request further information at its discretion.

Fairtree Bursary Closing Date

The official source does not specify a precise closing date for the 2026 programme announcement. 

Applicants should apply as soon as the form opens and ensure submission before any deadline posted on the Fairtree website.

What all applicants must note

Preference is given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and to female candidates, in line with Fairtree’s transformation and employment‑equity objectives.

If a recipient’s academic performance falls below satisfactory levels, Fairtree reserves the right to discontinue further assistance.

If the recipient terminates their studies, Fairtree may halt support and may require reimbursement of financial assistance provided.

All bursary holders must reapply annually, and support for future years depends on available funding and maintained performance.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible for the Fairtree bursary?
South African citizens with a valid South African ID who meet the academic and financial‑need criteria.
2. What academic performance is required?
Applicants must have an average of at least 65% in Matric (Grade 12). Strong performance in English and two other subjects is required.
3. Can students already enrolled at university apply?
Yes. Students already enrolled at a tertiary institution may apply by including their most recent academic records.
4. What fields of study are supported?
The bursary supports undergraduate studies at accredited South African universities; the specifics of eligible disciplines are listed in the Fairtree announcement.
5. Does the bursary include tuition only?
The bursary covers full university tuition, prescribed books and other academic support; possible employment after studies is also offered.
6. What must I submit with my application?
You must submit a completed form, ID, academic records, achievement details, testimonial, expense breakdown, university acceptance letter and parents’ ID copies.
7. Is there a closing date listed?
The official Fairtree announcement does not list a specific closing date for the 2026 cycle; applicants should check the Fairtree careers site for updates.
8. Is financial need required?
Yes. Applicants must demonstrate financial need to be eligible for the bursary.
9. Are there performance conditions after award?
Yes. Recipients must maintain satisfactory performance. Fairtree may discontinue assistance or request repayment if studies are terminated.
10. Are previously disadvantaged and female applicants given preference?
Yes. Fairtree gives preference to suitably qualified candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and to female applicants.

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