The Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary is offered by the global law firm Fasken Martineau, through its South African presence under Bell Dewar Inc. 

The bursary is aimed at supporting law students in South Africa who are pursuing or intend to pursue an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) degree. 

It recognises academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to the legal profession.

Fields of Study Covered by the Bursary

This bursary is for students studying an LLB degree (or equivalent) in South Africa. 

It is particularly suited to students in their penultimate (second‑last) or final year of their LLB qualification. 

The purpose is to help future candidate attorneys in the legal profession.

Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria (based on currently available information):

  1. Must be a South African citizen.
  2. Must be registered or intend to register for an LLB degree at a recognised South African university.
  3. Must be in their penultimate (second‑last) or final year of study when applying.
  4. Must have achieved a strong academic average – generally around 65% or 68% for previous years of study.
  5. Must show leadership qualities, be self‑motivated, and have an interest in community or extracurricular involvement.
  6. Financial need may be considered, but is not always a strict requirement.

What the Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary Covers

Although exact breakdowns are not consistently published, the bursary historically covers tuition support for the LLB degree. 

Recipients are usually expected to participate in vacation work placements at Fasken and, upon successful graduation, may be required to accept articles of clerkship at the firm if offered.

The bursary may thus lead to practical training and employment pathways.

Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary  Application Process

  1. Monitor Fasken’s website or bursary listings for when the application opens. According to sources, the 2025‑26 cycle is currently closed.
  2. Complete the online application form. Historically, applicants submitted an online profile, motivational letter, certified academic results, and references.
  3. Attach required documents: certified copy of ID, Matric certificate, tertiary (LLB) academic record if already studying, proof of registration, motivational letter, and at least two letters of reference.
  4. If shortlisted, you may need to attend an interview or meet further criteria (such as vacation work placement or hold articles with the firm).

Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary Closing Date

For the 2026 cycle, the closing date was 31 October 2025. 

Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar Bursary Contact Details

Applicants can contact Fasken Martineau / Bell Dewar for bursary inquiries through:

🎓 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.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)