The FirstRand Bursary Program is a unique opportunity for students interested in pursuing careers in finance, business, and related fields. By providing financial assistance, mentorship, and hands-on work experience, FirstRand is investing in the future of South Africa’s workforce and creating a more equitable and inclusive society.
FirstRand, a leading financial services provider in South Africa, is committed to empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders. To achieve this goal, the company offers a comprehensive bursary program to support promising students from diverse backgrounds in pursuing higher education.
What the FirstRand Bursary Program Offers
The FirstRand Bursary Program goes beyond financial assistance, offering a holistic support system to ensure the success of its beneficiaries. Here’s what the program covers:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage to alleviate the financial burden of higher education.
- Textbooks and Learning Materials: Ensuring students have access to necessary academic resources.
- Accommodation and Food: Support for living expenses to help students focus on their studies.
- Transport: Assistance with travel costs between home and university.
Additional Benefits of the FirstRand Bursary Program
The FirstRand Bursary Program not only covers essential educational costs but also provides a comprehensive suite of additional benefits aimed at nurturing the all-around development of its recipients. These benefits are designed to address various aspects of a student’s personal and professional growth:
- Stipend/Living Allowance: Recipients receive a monthly stipend designed to help manage day-to-day expenses. This financial support is crucial in allowing students to focus more on their studies and less on financial stress, thereby enhancing their academic performance.
- Psychosocial and Academic Support: The bursary program offers access to in-house psychologists and customized academic assistance. This support helps address any psychological challenges and optimizes learning strategies, ensuring students remain mentally and academically robust throughout their studies.
- Skill Development Workshops: The program includes monthly workshops that focus on developing a variety of skills essential for both personal and professional success. These workshops cover areas such as effective communication, leadership, time management, and critical thinking. The aim is to prepare students not just for exams, but for real-world challenges they will face in the workforce.
- Networking and Career Opportunities: FirstRand facilitates various events and activities that allow students to meet industry professionals and alumni, providing them with valuable networking opportunities. These connections can lead to internships, job placements, and mentorship programs that are instrumental in launching successful careers.
- Volunteer Opportunities: The program encourages students to engage in community service through partnerships with organizations like Tomorrow Trust. This involvement fosters a sense of civic responsibility and enhances personal growth. Volunteering helps students develop empathy and leadership skills, while also providing practical experience in working within diverse teams and environments.
- Career Guidance and Support: Beyond the immediate benefits, the bursary program offers career guidance services to help students navigate their future career paths. This includes CV writing workshops, interview preparation sessions, and job search assistance, ensuring students are well-prepared to enter the job market.
- Access to Industry Conferences and Seminars: Participants in the bursary program often have the opportunity to attend various industry-specific conferences and seminars. These events are crucial for staying updated with the latest trends and innovations in their field of study, which can significantly enhance their learning and professional development.
Eligibility
To ensure that the FirstRand Bursary Program supports the most deserving and motivated students, the program has established specific eligibility criteria. Meeting these criteria is essential for your application to be considered. Here’s what you need to know:
- Age Limit: Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35.
- Nationality: The bursary is open exclusively to South African citizens. This requirement ensures that the benefits of the program contribute directly to the country’s development and support those who are legally recognized as citizens.
- Academic Performance in Mathematics: Applicants must have achieved a minimum of 60% in Matric Mathematics. This criterion highlights the importance of a solid foundation in mathematics, a critical skill in the fields of finance and business.
- Undergraduate Academic Record: Candidates must have maintained an average of 60% or above throughout their undergraduate studies. This standard demonstrates consistent academic performance and dedication to their field of study.
- Educational Advancement: The bursary is aimed at students who are either pursuing a postgraduate degree for the first time or who are in the final year of their 4-year honours-level degree in 2023. This is to support students who are expanding their qualifications at a critical juncture of their academic career.
- Income Threshold: The combined gross family income must not exceed R600,000 per annum. This condition ensures that the bursary is awarded to students who need financial assistance to continue their education.
- BBBEE Alignment: Preference is given to students who are defined as beneficiaries under the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act. This aligns with FirstRand’s commitment to social equity and transformation within South Africa.
Additional Considerations:
- Community Involvement and Leadership: While not strictly required, involvement in community service and evidence of leadership skills can enhance an application. FirstRand values applicants who show potential to contribute positively to society and who take initiative beyond the classroom.
- Recommendations and References: Letters of recommendation from academic advisors, professors, or employers who can attest to the applicant’s character, academic integrity, and dedication can be very beneficial.
- Future Potential: Applicants should demonstrate not only academic ability but also a clear vision of how they intend to use their education to contribute to their field and to South African society in general.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online at: FirstRand: Bursary Application 2024
- Motivation Letter: Outlining your career aspirations and how you plan to use your degree.
- Valid ID: Certified copy required.
- Honours Acceptance Letter: For the upcoming academic year.
- Proof of Income: Documents to confirm the financial status of all household members.
- Latest Academic Transcript and Certified Matric Certificate.
In conclusion, the FirstRand Bursary Program provides a life-changing opportunity for South African students to access high-quality education and launch successful careers in their chosen fields. FirstRand’s commitment to nurturing young talent, fostering diversity and inclusion, and investing in the country’s future leaders is an admirable example of corporate social responsibility.
Participating in this program allows students to gain invaluable experience, develop essential skills, and actively contribute to South Africa’s progress. Apply now.