FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Application for 2026/2027. Are you a high-achieving South African student from a disadvantaged background, looking for full financial support to pursue your university studies? The FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is a prestigious opportunity for academically deserving and financially needy students who want to make a meaningful impact in South Africa. Funded by the FirstRand Foundation, one of the country’s largest corporate social investment vehicle. This bursary aims to develop the next generation of ethical leaders, professionals, and changemakers.
The FirstRand Foundation Trust bursary is awarded annually to students pursuing undergraduate degrees in a wide range of fields, including Commerce, Science, Engineering, Technology, Education, Health Sciences, and the Arts. This fully funded bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, study materials, and a monthly living allowance. It also offers holistic support, including mentorship, career guidance, and personal development programmes to help students succeed both academically and socially.
This article provides a detailed guide to the FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Application for 2026/2027, including eligibility criteria, supported fields of study, how to apply online, required documentation, and the closing date. Whether you’re a matriculant preparing for university or a current student, this bursary can help you access quality education and unlock your potential.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading for answers to common questions like “FirstRand Foundation bursary requirements 2026,” “how to apply for the FirstRand Trust bursary,” and “fully funded bursaries in South Africa.”
About FirstRand Foundation Trust (FREF)
The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (FREF) was established in 2005 as part of FirstRand Limited’s commitment to broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE). The foundation works to reduce poverty and inequality by funding public benefit initiatives that align with B-BBEE principles. Its leadership is made up mainly of individuals classified as black under the Financial Sector Charter.
FREF envisions a South Africa where every citizen has equal access to economic opportunities. Through strategic focus areas, the foundation empowers communities to become active contributors to the country’s economy and development.
About FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Programme – 2026/2027
Fields Covered
FREF is inviting applications for its 2026 bursary programme, aimed at students pursuing undergraduate degrees in key areas considered critical to South Africa’s growth. The bursary supports the following fields of study:
- Agricultural Sciences (all specialisations)
- Arts – Psychology
- Commerce – Accounting, Actuarial Science, Economics, Financial Management
- Engineering (all specialisations)
- Environmental Sciences – Climate Sciences, Renewable Energy
- Information Sciences – Business Information Systems, Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Management, Information Technology
- Mathematical Sciences – Mathematics, Risk, Statistics
- Natural Sciences – Biosciences, Electronics, Physics
- Social Sciences & Law – Society and Sustainability, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Law
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, which includes:
- Tuition fees
- Learning materials
- A computer (for first-year students)
- Accommodation and meals
- A monthly living stipend
Eligibility Requirements for FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary Application 2026/2027
Who Can Apply
To qualify for the FREF bursary, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be classified as Black according to the B-BBEE Act
- Be 21 years old or younger if entering your first year of university
- Be currently in Grade 12 or have completed Matric in the past three years
- Have achieved at least Level 5 in Mathematics in Matric
- Have a strong academic record
- Be planning to study full time toward your first undergraduate degree in one of the approved fields
- Be starting your first year at a public university in South Africa in 2026
- Have a combined family income of no more than R600 000 per year
Note: Postgraduate studies may be funded only under special circumstances if the qualification (PGD or Honours) is essential for employment.
How to Apply for FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary 2026/2027
Submit your application online at: Click here to access the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary Application 2026.
Before applying, be sure to read through the StudyTrust Bursary Application Guidelines.
Required Supporting Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready when applying:
- A recent ID photo (head and shoulders)
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Grade 11 final and Matric June results (if still in school)
- Matric certificate (if already completed)
- University provisional acceptance letter for 2026
- Proof of household income, which may include:
-
- Latest payslips (if employed)
- Affidavit (if unemployed)
- Affidavit or financial statement (if self-employed)
- 3 months of recent bank statements or audited statements (if business owner)
- SASSA letter (if receiving grants)
- Death certificates (if one or both parents are deceased)
- Court letter or affidavit (for child support, if parents are divorced/separated)
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and legible, as incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Application Deadline for FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary 2026/2027
30 September
Late applications will not be accepted, so be sure to submit yours on time.
Contact Details of FirstRand Foundation Trust
For any queries, contact StudyTrust, who administers this bursary:
Email: apply@StudyTrust.org.za
Tel: 011 403 1632
