Aspen, one of South Africa’s leading pharmaceutical companies, offers bursaries to eligible students who wish to pursue higher education in specific fields of study. These Aspen bursaries aim to empower South African citizens by providing financial support for tertiary education at selected institutions.
Requirements
To qualify for an Aspen bursary, you must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship
Applicants must be South African citizens holding a valid South African ID. - Relevant Degree Program
Only specific degree programs, detailed below, are eligible for bursary funding. - Enrollment at a Recognized Institution
You must be accepted at one of the designated South African universities included in the bursary program. - Aspen Employees’ Children
Children of Aspen South Africa employees are also eligible for the bursary, provided they meet the other criteria.
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Academic Institutions Supported by the Aspen Bursary
Aspen bursaries are limited to students enrolled in specific institutions across South Africa, categorized as follows:
Traditional Universities
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
Comprehensive Universities
- University of South Africa (UNISA)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
- Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Universities of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
Specialized Institution
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Degrees Included in the Aspen Bursary Program
The Aspen bursary supports students pursuing degrees in the following fields:
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Taxation
- Accounting
- Supply Chain Management
- Bachelor of Science
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology specializing in Regulatory Affairs
- Computer Science & Information Technology
- Data Science
- Bachelor of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery
- Bachelor of Engineering
Note: MBA degrees are not covered by the Aspen bursary scheme. Master’s or PhD funding is considered only under limited circumstances and at Aspen’s sole discretion.
What Costs Are Covered?
Aspen bursaries provide financial relief for the following expenses:
- Registration Fees
Covered up to 100%. - Tuition Fees
Covered up to 100%. - Prescribed Books
Costs covered up to 50%.
This financial support ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of excessive educational costs.
Read more: How to Apply for Bursaries for the 2025 Academic Year
How Is Funding Determined?
Aspen reviews bursary applications annually and allocates funding based on multiple criteria, including the availability of funds and the applicant’s financial need. The bursary committee evaluates all applications thoroughly and ensures that the program benefits deserving candidates.
Why Choose Aspen Bursaries?
Aspen bursaries are not just about financial aid; they represent an opportunity to pursue academic excellence in fields that are critical to South Africa’s economic and healthcare development. With support for tuition, registration, and prescribed books, Aspen enables students to achieve their dreams without financial stress.
Application Process and Documentation Required
To apply for an Aspen bursary, follow these steps:
Step 1: Acceptance at a Supported Institution
You must first secure admission to one of the listed academic institutions in an eligible program.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
The following documents are required for the online application:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- An official acceptance letter from your institution.
- Tuition fee quotation or proforma invoice from your institution.
- Quotation for prescribed textbooks (if applicable).
- Final results from the previous academic year (if applicable for continuation of study).
- Financial proof:
- Copies of pay slips for both parents or guardians.
- A sworn affidavit or proof of UIF registration if parents are unemployed.
- Proof of other sources of income, if applicable.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted online, and decisions are made solely by the Aspen Bursary Committee. All decisions are final and cannot be contested.
Aspen bursaries are a lifeline for South African students aspiring to achieve higher education in critical fields like commerce, science, engineering, and healthcare. By offering financial support to cover registration, tuition, and textbook costs, Aspen reduces the financial burden on students and their families. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or continuing your studies, this bursary program provides a valuable opportunity to pursue your academic goals at some of the best institutions in the country.