The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now open for their Bursary Programme for the 2025 academic year. Students interested in financial assistance for their studies are encouraged to apply.
About the Bursary Provider
The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (FREF) was established in 2005 as part of FirstRand Limited’s broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) initiative. FREF’s mission is to reduce poverty and inequality by supporting public benefit activities aligned with B-BBEE principles.
Led predominantly by individuals classified as black under the Financial Sector Charter, FREF envisions a South Africa where citizens have equitable access to economic opportunities, fostering inclusive growth. Its initiatives empower communities to actively participate in the national economy through key strategic focus areas.
Field of Study
The bursary is available to students pursuing postgraduate studies (Bachelor of Honours degree) in the following fields:
- Accounting
- Actuarial Science
- Agricultural Sciences
- BA Honours Arts (Psychology)
- Biosciences
- Business Information
- Climate Sciences
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Economics
- Electronics
- Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
- Financial Management
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Information Management
- Information Science
- Information Systems
- Information Technology
- Law
- Mathematical Sciences
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Renewable Energy
- Risk
- Sciences
- Society and Sustainability
- Statistics
Eligibility Requirements for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Honours Bursary 2025
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 21 and 35 years old.
- Have completed Matric, achieving a minimum of 60% in Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy).
- Have completed an Undergraduate degree between 2022 and 2024.
- Be enrolled in a full-time, 1-year Honours degree programme in 2025.
- Be pursuing your first postgraduate qualification.
- Be studying at a public university in South Africa.
- Achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in undergraduate studies.
- Have a combined gross family income not exceeding R600,000 per annum.
Required Supporting Documents
The following documents must be submitted:
- Certified copy of your ID document (not older than 6 months).
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Certified copy of your Academic Records.
- Proof of university acceptance or provisional acceptance for 2025.
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ household income (e.g., payslips, affidavit for unemployment, audited financial statements for self-employed individuals, SASSA grant letter, or bank statements).
- Completed EEA1 form.
How to Apply for the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary 2025
Applications must be submitted online.
Closing Date
The deadline for applications is 15 January 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so be sure to submit your application before the closing date.
Contact Details
For queries about the bursary programme, contact Feenix (the administrators) through their contact page.
This bursary provides both financial assistance and a pathway to developing your career in your field. Good luck with your application.
For more bursaries and scholarships, visit: studyinvarsity.co.za