Are you a South African medical student facing financial barriers to achieving your dream of becoming a doctor?
The South African Medical Association Bursary Program could be the helping hand you need.
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) is a non-profit organization established in 1998.
With a vision to unify medical practitioners across various sectors, SAMA champions the needs and interests of both private and public sector doctors in healthcare matters.
Their core values – professionalism, leadership, Ubuntu (humanity), innovation, integrity, and vibrancy – resonate throughout their initiatives, including the SAMA Bursary Program.
About the South African Medical Association Bursary
The SAMA Bursary Program aims to financially support deserving medical students (MB ChB or MB BCh) from disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate academic excellence.
This bursary offers R20,000 annually to support tuition fees, allowing recipients to focus on their studies without the burden of overwhelming financial constraints.
It’s important to note that this is not a full-coverage bursary and does not cover expenses like textbooks or accommodation.
However, students are welcome to combine this award with other bursary funding, with full disclosure to SAMA.
South African Medical Association Bursary Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SAMA Bursary Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have completed your Matriculation certificate.
- Be currently enrolled in a recognized South African university, pursuing an MB ChB/MB BCh qualification (2nd, 3rd, or 4th year only). First-year students are not eligible.
- Possess a strong academic record.
- Demonstrate proven financial need.
- Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
South African Medical Association Bursary Application Requirements
Before applying, ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID document.
- Certified copy of your latest exam results.
- Two recent written testimonials.
- Certified copy of proof of income from your parents/guardians or yourself (if applicable).
Once you have gathered these documents, proceed with the application process:
- Download the SAMA Bursary Application Form from the official South African Medical Association website.
- Complete the application form accurately and comprehensively.
- Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents through one of the following methods:
- Email: [email protected] (Attention: Ms. Grace Baloyi, Bursary Assistant)
- Post: The Bursaries Officer, The South African Medical Association, P O Box 74789, Lynnwood Ridge, 0040
How to Apply
The application deadlines for the 2025 bursary cycle haven’t been announced yet.
I recommend you check the South African Medical Association website closer to the application period for the latest updates.
Download the South African Medical Association Application Form here.
How to Contact South African Medical Association Bursary
If you have any questions regarding the SAMA Bursary Program, you can contact the South African Medical Association directly:
- Contact Person: Ms. Grace Baloyi (Bursary Assistant)
- Telephone: 012 481 2036
- Email: [email protected]