The BASF South Africa Trust has opened applications for its 2025 bursary program, targeting young black female students in South Africa with the goal of fostering their growth in science and technology fields. This bursary program provides a unique opportunity for young women who are financially disadvantaged but academically gifted to pursue careers in Chemistry, Sciences, and Engineering.
With the support of BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, this initiative is part of a broader commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable development.
About BASF South Africa Trust
BASF is dedicated to creating sustainable and innovative solutions that address modern challenges. Through the BASF South Africa Trust, the organization supports the advancement of women in scientific disciplines, particularly among black female students who face financial obstacles in their educational journeys. This bursary covers full educational expenses, ensuring recipients can focus on achieving academic and professional success.
Key Benefits of the Bursary
The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary is a full-cost scholarship that provides:
- Tuition Fees: All academic tuition fees are covered.
- Textbooks: Provision for required textbooks.
- Monthly Stipend: A monthly allowance to support personal needs.
- Accommodation: Coverage for student housing expenses.
This bursary is available from the second year of study, which means it is open to students in their second or third year of study in 2025.
Eligible Fields of Study
The BASF bursary program is available to students enrolled in the following disciplines:
- Chemistry
- Sciences
- Engineering
These fields align with BASF’s commitment to fostering scientific and technical innovation for a sustainable future.
Bursary Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary, applicants must meet these minimum requirements:
- South African Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Black Female Student: Only black female students, as per BBBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) codes, are eligible.
- Academic Standing: Must have a strong academic record.
- Field of Study: Currently enrolled in Chemistry, Sciences, or Engineering.
- Financial Need: Must come from a financially disadvantaged background and meet NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding requirements.
- Enrollment at Recognized Institution: Must be studying at a recognized South African university or university of technology.
- No Criminal Record: The applicant must have no criminal record in any country.
- No Other Funding: Apart from NSFAS funding, applicants should not have received any other scholarship, bursary, or grant for the 2025 academic year.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum of 3 pages, summarizing academic achievements and relevant experiences.
- Essay: A 2-page essay on the following topic:
- “The current and future state of my field of study, how I will contribute when I graduate, and why I should receive financial support to study in this field.”
- Format: Microsoft Word or PDF, 12pt font, 1.5 line spacing.
- Certified Copies of Academic Records:
- Matric results and most recent academic record.
- Certified ID Document.
- Proof of Parent/Guardian Income:
- Recent payslip, audited financial statements, or a sworn affidavit if self-employed or unemployed.
Submission Instructions: All documents must be compiled into a single PDF and sent via email to: basf_za_trust@outlook.com
Application Deadline: The closing date for the second round of applications is 10 January 2025. Applicants are encouraged to submit all required documents before this date to ensure their application is reviewed.
Important Dates and Deadlines
| Description | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Closing date for applications | 10 January 2025 |
| Submission of final academic record | 10 January 2025 |
| Shortlisting and decision notifications | January/February 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who is eligible for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary?
- The bursary is available to black female South African citizens who are enrolled in Chemistry, Sciences, or Engineering, from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, and have a strong academic record.
- What does the bursary cover?
- It covers tuition fees, textbooks, a monthly stipend, and accommodation.
- Can first-year students apply for the bursary?
- No, the bursary is only available for students in their second or third year of study.
- How do I submit my application?
- Applicants should send their complete application in PDF format to basf_za_trust@outlook.com.
BBBEE Codes and Definition of Black Female Students
As per the BBBEE codes, the term “Black People” includes:
- Africans: Citizens of South Africa by birth or descent.
- Coloureds and Indians: Individuals who have acquired South African citizenship by naturalization before a certain cutoff.
Related: SIOC Community Development Trust Bursary 2025
The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary aligns with BASF’s commitment to sustainable solutions and women’s empowerment. By providing financial support to young women in fields critical to innovation and sustainability, BASF is helping to bridge gender gaps in science and technology.
Recipients of this bursary can focus on their academic pursuits without financial stress, allowing them to develop skills that contribute to the South African economy and global scientific community.