Investing in your postgraduate studies can be tough, especially with the rising tuition fees.

Fortunately, bursaries like the FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary offer a helping hand to diligent but financially troubled students.

This prestigious bursary, established by the FirstRand Foundation, empowers South African graduates to pursue their academic dreams and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

About the FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary

The FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary provides financial support to South African citizens pursuing postgraduate honours degrees at accredited universities in the country.

The bursary covers full tuition fees, academic fees, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

Additionally, bursars benefit from mentorship and career guidance opportunities, equipping them for future success.

FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary Application Form

The application process for the FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary is straightforward and online-based. To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the FirstRand Foundation Bursary website.
  2. Create an account: Register on the platform by providing your personal details and setting a password.
  3. Complete the online application form: Carefully fill out the form, ensuring all required fields are accurately completed.
  4. Upload supporting documents: Submit the following documents in PDF format:
    • Certified ID document
    • Honours acceptance letter from your chosen university
    • Latest academic transcript
    • Certified Matric certificate
    • Proof of family income (combined gross income not exceeding R600,000 per annum)
    • Motivation letter outlining your academic goals and career aspirations
  5. Review and submit: Thoroughly review your application for any errors or omissions. Once satisfied, click the “Submit” button to finalize your application.

FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35 years old.
  2. Be a final-year undergraduate student in 2023 or have completed your undergraduate studies between January 2021 and December 2023 (not currently studying).
  3. Be registered for a postgraduate honours degree at a South African university in 2024.
  4. Have obtained a minimum of 60% for Mathematics in Matric.
  5. Have achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in your undergraduate studies.
  6. Meet the financial means test, with a combined gross family income not exceeding R600,000 per annum.
  7. Preference will be given to students who fall under the BBBEE Act categories.

FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary Closing Date

The application window for the 2024 FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary has closed. The deadline was October 31, 2023.

For future applicants, it’s wise to mark your calendars and submit your applications long before the closing date to avoid missing out on this opportunity.

While the application window is closed, you can still reach out to the FirstRand Foundation for general inquiries or clarifications about the bursary program. Their email address is: [email protected].