BASF South Africa Trust Bursary: A Guide for Black Female Students

The BASF South Africa Trust offers a significant opportunity for Black female students pursuing higher education in South Africa. For the 2027 academic year, this bursary program aims to provide full funding for undergraduate and Honours studies in specific science, engineering, and chemistry fields. This initiative addresses the need for financial support for academically strong students who might otherwise face barriers to tertiary education. Understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process is key to successfully applying for this valuable bursary.

Understanding the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary

The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary is designed to support Black female students in South Africa who demonstrate academic merit and financial need. The program focuses on fostering talent in critical fields that contribute to scientific and technological advancement. For the 2027 academic year, the bursary is specifically for students undertaking undergraduate or Honours degrees. It is important to note that Master’s and PhD studies are not covered by this particular bursary.

Eligible Fields of Study

To qualify for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary, applicants must be pursuing studies in one of the following areas:

• Chemistry: This includes a wide range of chemical sciences and related disciplines.
• Engineering: Various engineering fields are supported, contributing to the development of technical expertise.
• Selected Science Fields: This category encompasses specific science disciplines, but it is crucial to note that Medical Sciences and Economic Sciences are excluded.

Applicants must ensure their chosen course of study aligns precisely with these categories to be considered for the bursary.

What the Bursary Covers

The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary offers comprehensive financial support, aiming to alleviate the financial burden associated with tertiary education. Successful applicants can expect funding for:

• Tuition Fees: The full cost of tuition for the academic year will be covered.
• Textbooks: Funds will be allocated to purchase necessary study materials and textbooks.
• Accommodation: Support will be provided for living expenses, including accommodation costs.
• Monthly Stipend: A regular stipend will be provided to assist with day-to-day living expenses.

This full funding model makes the bursary a substantial opportunity for students who require financial assistance to complete their studies.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

Meeting all the specified eligibility criteria is essential for a successful application. Applicants must adhere to the following:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Gender: Must be female.
• Race: Must be Black in terms of the BBBEE codes, which includes African, Coloured, and Indian applicants.
• Academic Status: Must be currently completing Matric in 2026 or have already completed Matric.
• Study Level: Must be studying or intend to study towards an eligible Undergraduate or Honours qualification.
• Field of Study: Must be studying or planning to study Chemistry, Engineering, or an eligible Science qualification.
• Institution: Must be studying at a recognized and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate a genuine financial need.
• Household Income: Combined household income must not exceed R630,000 per annum.
• Academic Record: Must possess a strong academic record.
• Criminal Record: Must have no criminal record.
• Other Bursaries: Must not be receiving another bursary or scholarship for the 2027 academic year.

Who Does Not Qualify?

Certain applicants will not be eligible for this bursary. These include:

• Students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees.
• Students in Medical Sciences or Economic Sciences.
• Applicants whose combined household income exceeds R630,000 per year.
• Individuals already benefiting from another bursary or scholarship for the 2027 academic year.

Additionally, failure to meet the citizenship, gender, BBBEE, academic, or other specified requirements will result in disqualification.

Required Application Documents

A complete application requires several supporting documents. Applicants must ensure these are certified copies where specified and uploaded correctly:

• South African ID: A certified copy of your South African identity document.
• Matric Certificate/Results: A certified copy of your Matric certificate or your latest Matric results.
• Academic Record: A certified copy of your full academic record, including your most recent available results.
• University Acceptance: Proof of acceptance from the tertiary institution.
• Proof of Income: Certified proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income. This can include:
• Latest payslips if employed.
• Audited financial statements if self-employed.
• An affidavit if unemployed.
• Proof of government grant or pension, if applicable.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A CV not exceeding three pages.

Missing any compulsory documents can lead to an application being disqualified.

The Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the BASF South Africa Trust. They may be asked to provide further information or participate in an interview as part of the selection process. Applicants who do not hear back from the Trust should assume their application was unsuccessful.

How to Apply

Applications for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary must be submitted online through the official application portal. The application portal can be accessed via the provided link. Applicants are advised to complete the online form accurately and upload all required supporting documents before the submission deadline. When asked how you heard about the bursary, you can mention the source provided in the application guidance.

Application Closing Dates

There are two distinct closing dates for applications, depending on your current academic status:

• Current Tertiary Students: 15 January 2027
• Current Matric Students: 22 January 2027

It is strongly recommended that applicants submit their applications well before these deadlines to avoid any last-minute issues.

Final Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, review the following checklist to ensure all requirements are met:

• Confirm you meet the citizenship, gender, and BBBEE criteria.
• Verify your chosen qualification is within an eligible field of study.
• Ensure your combined household income does not exceed R630,000 per annum.
• Confirm you are applying for an Undergraduate or Honours degree.
• Check that all ID and academic documents are certified.
• Include your latest academic results and university acceptance letter.
• Provide all necessary household income documentation.
• Ensure your CV is no longer than three pages.
• Confirm you are not currently receiving any other bursary or scholarship for 2027.

Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary Programme, applicants can reach out directly to the Trust via email. Ensure your query is clear and specific to receive the most helpful assistance.

Conclusion

The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary for 2027 represents a significant opportunity for Black female students in South Africa to pursue higher education in chemistry, engineering, and selected science fields. By offering full funding for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, the program aims to remove financial barriers and support academic excellence. Thoroughly understanding and meeting all eligibility requirements, preparing all necessary documents, and submitting the application before the respective deadlines are crucial steps for any aspiring applicant. This bursary is a valuable resource for those seeking to advance their education and contribute to South Africa’s scientific and technological landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions