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For many talented South African learners, getting accepted into university is only the first step toward building a successful future. The real challenge often comes when it is time to pay for tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other study-related expenses. Thousands of students every year are forced to delay or even abandon their studies because of financial difficulties, despite having the academic ability to succeed.
To help address this challenge, the FNB Fund Bursary Programme was created to provide financial assistance to deserving students who demonstrate strong academic potential but come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Through this initiative, the FNB Fund aims to make higher education more accessible to young South Africans who have the determination and talent to succeed.
The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, one of South Africa’s most respected educational support organisations. Together, they work to identify promising students and provide them with opportunities to pursue qualifications that will contribute to the country’s future economic growth and development.
The FNB Fund Bursary Programme is a partial bursary designed to support academically talented students who need financial assistance to continue their studies at recognised South African tertiary institutions.
The programme focuses on fields of study that are considered critical to South Africa’s future development. These include qualifications within Commerce, Engineering, and Science-related disciplines.
The goal of the bursary is not only to provide financial assistance but also to help develop future leaders, innovators, engineers, scientists, business professionals, and entrepreneurs who can make a meaningful contribution to society.
The programme particularly seeks to support students who have demonstrated resilience, commitment, and academic excellence despite facing financial challenges.
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for creating opportunities and reducing inequality. Through the FNB Fund Bursary Programme, talented young people who may otherwise struggle to afford university education are given a chance to unlock their potential.
Investing in education benefits not only individual students but also families, communities, and the broader South African economy. Graduates often go on to create jobs, improve industries, solve complex problems, and contribute to innovation within their chosen professions.
By supporting students today, the FNB Fund is helping build a stronger and more prosperous South Africa for future generations.
The bursary is available to students pursuing undergraduate studies in selected Commerce, Engineering, and Science-related disciplines.
Students studying within the commerce and business environment may qualify for bursary support if they are pursuing qualifications such as:
These fields prepare students for careers in banking, finance, consulting, auditing, investment management, business leadership, and many other sectors that drive economic growth.
Engineering students are also encouraged to apply. Eligible fields include:
Engineering professionals continue to play a crucial role in infrastructure development, industrial growth, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and technology advancement throughout South Africa.
Students studying science and technology-related qualifications may also qualify.
Supported fields include:
It is important to note that Natural Sciences are not included in the bursary programme.
The FNB Fund Bursary Programme is aimed at students who demonstrate both academic potential and financial need.
To be considered for the bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:
The bursary programme is designed to support students who have the ability to succeed but require financial assistance to reach their goals.
The FNB Fund is committed to creating equal opportunities for deserving students from all backgrounds.
While applications are welcomed from all qualifying candidates, the programme places special emphasis on supporting:
Importantly, applicants are not excluded on the basis of race, gender, or disability. The selection process focuses on identifying deserving students who show academic promise and a commitment to achieving their educational goals.
Applicants must achieve specific academic results in order to qualify for consideration.
Students applying for Commerce-related qualifications must have achieved:
Students applying for Engineering qualifications must have achieved:
Students applying for Science-related qualifications must have achieved:
These minimum requirements ensure that applicants have the academic foundation necessary to succeed in demanding university programmes.
There are certain circumstances under which applicants may not qualify for the programme.
Applicants who completed their Matric or National Senior Certificate more than two years before applying will generally not be considered.
The bursary primarily focuses on students who are transitioning directly from school into higher education or who are currently pursuing undergraduate studies.
Students should carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
Providing complete and accurate documentation is one of the most important parts of the application process.
Applicants are typically required to submit certified copies of supporting documents, including:
Applicants must provide:
Academic performance plays a major role in the selection process, making these documents extremely important.
Applicants must submit:
This helps verify citizenship and personal information.
Since the bursary is intended for financially disadvantaged students, proof of household income is required.
Acceptable documentation may include:
These documents help assess financial need and determine eligibility.
Applicants are generally required to submit two testimonials.
One testimonial should come from an educational authority such as:
The second testimonial may come from a respected community member such as:
These testimonials provide insight into the applicant’s character, commitment, and potential for success.
One of the most important sections of the application is the personal essay.
Applicants are usually required to write about their life experiences, challenges, achievements, goals, and aspirations.
This essay allows the selection committee to understand the individual behind the academic results.
When writing the essay, students should focus on:
Applicants are encouraged to be honest and authentic. The essay should reflect their own voice and personal experiences.
A genuine and well-written essay can significantly strengthen an application.
In addition to testimonials, applicants may also submit a letter of recommendation from:
This letter can provide additional insight into the applicant’s character, determination, and circumstances.
Although not always mandatory, a strong recommendation can enhance an application.
Competition for bursaries can be intense, so students should make every effort to submit a strong application.
Some useful tips include:
Do not wait until the last minute. Gather documents and complete forms as soon as applications open.
Ensure that all required documents are certified and clearly readable.
Take time to carefully explain your story, goals, and motivations.
Include academic achievements, leadership roles, volunteer work, sports participation, and community involvement.
Always provide truthful information throughout your application.
The FNB Fund Bursary Programme continues to provide life-changing opportunities for talented South African students who might otherwise struggle to access higher education.
For learners with strong academic results, a passion for their chosen field, and a commitment to building a better future, this bursary can open doors to university education and career opportunities that may have once seemed out of reach.
If you meet the requirements and are determined to pursue a qualification in Commerce, Engineering, or selected Science and Technology fields, this bursary could be the stepping stone that helps turn your dreams into reality.
Take the time to prepare a strong application, gather all required documents, and showcase your potential. An investment in education is an investment in your future, and opportunities like the FNB Fund Bursary Programme can help make that future possible.
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