The Foschini Group Bursary Requirements and How to Apply

The Foschini Group (TFG) is a major South African retail group with a broad portfolio of brands in fashion, jewellery, sportswear, homeware and lifestyle.

The company has introduced a bursary/fellowship programme to support students, particularly in the field of data science and leadership, and in select other fields connected to its business.

For the 2026 cycle, the programme is labelled the “TFG Data Science & Leadership Fellowship”.

What does The Foschini Group Bursary cover?

The fellowship covers full tuition fees, a living allowance, meal allowance, study equipment (like laptop or research tools) and includes a leadership-event at TFG’s Head Office in Cape Town.

Because this fellowship is specifically aimed at postgraduate Master’s study in data science, it is not a general undergraduate bursary covering any field of study.

 Applicants aiming for undergraduate study should check other TFG or partner bursaries.

Eligibility requirements for the The Foschini Group Bursary

To apply for the 2026-cycle TFG fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Must be a South African citizen.
  2. Must be enrolled in or accepted for a Master’s degree (first or second year) in Data Science or a related field at a recognised South African public university in 2026.
  3. Must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, innovation and creativity.
  4. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups (in line with South Africa’s Employment Equity requirements).

Application process for the The Foschini Group Bursary

Here is how to apply:

  1. Visit the official application portal for the TFG Data Science and Leadership Fellowship via StudyTrust.
  2. Prepare supporting documents including: a certified copy of your South African ID; your full academic record (including June 2025 results or progress report); proof of acceptance into a recognised South African public university for your Master’s in Data Science or related field; and a professional profile photograph (head and shoulders).
  3. Complete the online application form and upload your documents by the closing date.
  4. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit by the deadline.

Closing date for the The Foschini Group Bursary

The closing date for the 2026 cycle of the The Foschini Group Data Science & Leadership Fellowship was 30 September 2025 but got extended until 30 October 2025.

Contact details for the The Foschini Group Bursary

  • Phone (general enquiries via StudyTrust / bursary administrator): +27 11 403 1632 x 200.
  • Email: [email protected]

FAQs

1. What is the TFG Data Science & Leadership Fellowship?
It is a postgraduate fellowship offered by The Foschini Group, supporting Master’s students in Data Science or related fields in South Africa, covering tuition, allowances and equipment.
2. Who can apply for the TFG Fellowship?
South African citizens entering 1st or 2nd year of a Master’s in Data Science (or related) at a recognised public university, demonstrating academic excellence, innovation and leadership potential.
3. What does the bursary/fellowship cover?
Full tuition fees, living and meal allowances, study equipment and participation in a leadership-event at TFG’s Head Office in Cape Town.
4. When is the closing date?
For the 2026 cycle the closing date was 30 September 2025 (30 October 2025 extended). Late applications will not be considered.
5. Can I apply if I am studying for an undergraduate degree?
No. This specific fellowship is for Master’s level (postgraduate) study in Data Science or related fields. Undergraduate students should look for other TFG bursaries.
6. Do I need to demonstrate leadership and innovation?
Yes. Applicants must show strong leadership potential, innovative thinking and a commitment to making an impact through data science.
7. Are designated groups given preference?
Yes. Preference is given to candidates from designated groups in line with South African employment equity goals.
8. Which documents do I need to submit?
Certified copy of South African ID, full academic transcript (including June 2025 results/progress report), proof of acceptance/enrolment for Master’s in 2026, and a professional head-and-shoulders photo.
9. How competitive is the fellowship?
Very competitive. You must meet all criteria and submit a strong, complete application early. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee awarding.
10. Where can I get help or more information?
Contact StudyTrust or the bursary administrator via +27 11 403 1632 x 200 or check The Foschini Group’s website and the official online application portal for FAQs and guidance.

🎓 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)