FEM Bursary Programme 2025 – Apply Now!

For South African students interested in pursuing studies in the Health Sciences or Engineering faculties, the FEM Bursary Programme for 2025 offers financial support to help alleviate educational costs. FEM (Federated Employers Mutual) is dedicated to empowering young South Africans, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who show academic promise and a desire to contribute to the country’s workforce. This bursary seeks to support students in fields crucial to the country’s growth, ensuring that they have the resources they need to focus on their academics and build skills to become future leaders.

Overview of the FEM Bursary Programme

The FEM Bursary Programme is a significant opportunity for eligible students in South Africa to receive financial support for their studies. The bursary is aimed at students enrolled in the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at a recognized South African public university. This initiative reflects FEM’s commitment to supporting students who demonstrate a drive for academic success but lack the financial means to pursue their education.

The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, and provides a monthly stipend. Additionally, accommodation and meal allowances are also offered, although approval for these is at the sole discretion of FEM.

Eligibility Criteria for the FEM Bursary

To qualify for the FEM Bursary, students must meet specific criteria to ensure that the opportunity reaches those in need and with the potential to excel. Below are the main eligibility requirements:

1. South African Citizenship: Only South African citizens are eligible.
2. Field of Study: Applicants must be enrolled in Health Sciences or Engineering courses.
3. Good Financial Standing: Students must not have any outstanding fees from previous academic years with their university.
4. Academic Performance: Applicants should have a solid academic record.
5. Household Income: Combined household income should not exceed R380,000 per annum.
6. Background: Preference is given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds who lack the financial means to support their education.
7. University Acceptance: The applicant must have been accepted to study at a South African public university.
8. Completed First Year: This bursary does not consider first-year or postgraduate students. Only those who have successfully completed their first year of study are eligible to apply.

Required Documentation for Application

For a smooth application process, applicants are required to provide several supporting documents to verify their eligibility and financial situation. Here’s a list of documents that students need to prepare and certify (no older than three months):

1. Applicant’s Identity Document: A certified copy of the applicant’s ID is required. If the applicant is younger than 16 years and does not yet have a green barcoded ID or smart ID card, a certified unabridged birth certificate must be submitted.
2. Parent(s) or Guardian(s) Identity Document: Certified copies of IDs for the parents or legal guardians in the household.
3. Proof of Income: Recent (within three months) payslips for each parent or guardian, covering all forms of income. If the parent or guardian is retired, a pension slip or bank statement showing pension payments must be included.
4. Affidavit for Informal Employment: If a parent or guardian works as an informal trader, an affidavit confirming this type of employment is needed.
5. Death Certificate: A certified copy of the death certificate for any deceased parent(s), if applicable.
6. Affidavit of Financial Non-Support: An affidavit is required if either parent does not financially support the applicant or provide maintenance.
7. Unemployment or No Proof of Income: An affidavit should outline the source of any income, maintenance, or allowance if parents or guardians are unemployed and cannot provide proof of income.
8. Proof of Sibling Registration: If a sibling is a dependent and a student, proof of registration from their tertiary institution must be submitted.
9. Academic Record: Applicants must submit a certified academic record from their current university or college, verifying that they are in good financial standing.

Application Process

To apply for the FEM Bursary, students will first complete a short online questionnaire. Successful initial applicants will be shortlisted and subsequently receive the full FEM bursary application form. The deadline for submitting completed applications and all required documents is 25 November 2024.

FEM encourages all applicants to ensure that their submissions are accurate, and that they include all necessary supporting documents. Certified copies of documents should be no older than three months and can be certified at a local South African Police Service office or the South African Post Office.

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Benefits of the FEM Bursary

The FEM Bursary is designed to alleviate the financial burden of tertiary education, allowing students to focus on their studies. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:

1. Full Tuition Coverage: The bursary covers full-time tuition fees, ensuring students have access to education without worrying about fee payments.
2. Prescribed Textbooks: Bursary recipients are provided with necessary textbooks for their courses, which can be a significant financial relief.
3. Monthly Stipend: The programme includes a monthly stipend to assist with day-to-day expenses.
4. Accommodation and Meals: Subject to FEM’s discretion, the bursary may also cover accommodation and meal costs, depending on the student’s needs and FEM’s assessment.

FEM’s Commitment to Building Future Leaders

The FEM Bursary Programme isn’t only about financial support; it’s a commitment to building a skilled and educated future workforce. FEM recognizes that investing in the education of South African youth can transform lives and uplift communities. By nurturing young talent and providing educational resources, FEM aims to shape future leaders who will contribute positively to the country’s economic and social landscape.

The FEM bursary is particularly targeted at young South Africans from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering them a pathway to a brighter future through education. FEM hopes that recipients will leverage this opportunity to achieve their career goals and, in turn, contribute to the development of South Africa.

How to Prepare for a Successful Application

Applicants are encouraged to begin gathering their documents as soon as possible, ensuring each document is certified within the required three-month timeframe. Students should also prepare a clear, accurate statement about their financial situation and academic background to strengthen their application.

Each application should reflect the candidate’s motivation and dedication to their chosen field. The FEM Bursary Programme seeks candidates who are committed to their studies and have a genuine interest in contributing to the Health Sciences or Engineering sectors.

Important Dates

• Application Open Date: 04 November 2024
• Application Deadline: 25 November 2024

Related: EThekwini Municipal Student Relief Fund for 2025/2026 -Apply Now!

For further details, applicants can visit the FEM website or contact the FEM Bursary Programme support team for assistance regarding the application process or document requirements.