The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) is inviting financially needy and academically deserving South African students to apply for the 2026 FEM Bursary Programme.
Closing Date: 15 November 2025
About the FEM Bursary Programme
This bursary opportunity aims to empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are pursuing studies in key sectors that contribute to South Africa’s development — specifically Engineering, Built Environment, and Health Sciences.
FEM’s bursary programme is part of its commitment to promoting education and developing skills within industries related to occupational health, safety, and infrastructure.
Fields Covered
Bursaries will be awarded for undergraduate studies in the following fields:
- Engineering (all disciplines)
- Built Environment (including Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, etc.)
- Health Sciences
These areas have been identified as critical to the advancement of FEM’s mission and South Africa’s socio-economic growth.
What the Bursary Covers
The FEM Bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Tuition fees (full cost)
- Prescribed textbooks
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation and meals (at FEM’s discretion)
This ensures that students can focus on their academic success without financial stress.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be studying full-time towards an undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Built Environment, or Health Sciences
- Must have completed their first year of study (first-year and postgraduate students are not eligible)
- Must be studying at an approved public university in South Africa
- Must have a total household income not exceeding R360,000 per year
- Must have a strong academic record
- Must be in good financial standing with their university (no outstanding fees)
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must be from a disadvantaged background
Required Supporting Documents
Submit the following certified (not older than 3 months) documents with your online application:
- Certified ID copy (South African ID)
- Most recent academic record
- Parents or guardians ID documents
- Parents or guardians proof of income:
- Latest payslips or bank statements (if employed)
- Affidavit (if unemployed or informal worker)
- Proof of SASSA grant, disability grant, or pension (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if deceased)
- Divorce certificate (if divorced)
- Proof of registration for any other dependents currently studying at tertiary level
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the FEM bursary portal:
👉 FEM Bursary Application 2026
When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter:
“www.zabursaries.co.za”
Shortlisted candidates will receive a further application form to complete.
Important Dates
- Closing Date: 15 November 2025
(Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.)