How to Apply for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary for 2027

This guide will walk you through the process of applying for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary for the 2027 academic year. This bursary offers full funding for Black female students pursuing undergraduate or Honours degrees in Chemistry, Engineering, and selected Science fields. Before you begin, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria: you must be a South African citizen, female, Black (African, Coloured, or Indian), and have a combined household income not exceeding R630,000 per annum. You should also be currently completing Matric or have already completed it, and be planning to study one of the eligible fields at a recognized South African tertiary institution.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, carefully review all the eligibility requirements. This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on an application you don’t qualify for.

Use a bulleted list to detail the key requirements:

• Citizenship: South African citizen.
• Gender: Female.
• Race: Black (African, Coloured, Indian) as per BBBEE codes.
• Academic Status: Currently completing Matric in 2026 or already completed Matric.
• Study Level: Undergraduate or Honours qualification.
• Field of Study: Chemistry, Engineering, or eligible Sciences (excluding Medical and Economic Sciences).
• Institution: Studying at a recognized and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
• Financial Need: Combined household income not exceeding R630,000 per annum.
• Academic Record: Strong academic performance.
• Criminal Record: No criminal record.
• Other Bursaries: Not currently receiving another bursary or scholarship for 2027.

Mistake to Avoid: Applying without confirming your household income limit or ensuring your chosen field of study is covered. The research states Medical and Economic Sciences are excluded.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary supporting documents for your application. Having these ready will streamline the online application process.

Use a bulleted list to outline the required documents:

• Certified copy of your South African ID.
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest Matric results.
• Certified copy of your full academic record, including your most recent results.
• Proof of university acceptance for your chosen qualification.
• Certified proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income. This may 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) no longer than three pages.

Edge Case: Ensure all documents are clearly certified and uploaded in the correct format. Missing documents are a common reason for disqualification.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Access the official BASF South Africa Trust bursary application portal and fill out the online form accurately.

Follow these sub-steps:

• Navigate to the application portal using the provided link: https://www.basftrust.co.za/application.php.
• Complete all sections of the application form with your personal details, academic information, and financial circumstances.
• When asked how you heard about the bursary, you can enter ‘www.zabursaries.co.za’ as indicated in the application guidance.
• Upload all the certified supporting documents you gathered in Step 2.

Mistake to Avoid: Rushing through the application or failing to upload all compulsory documents. Double-check every field before submitting.

Step 4: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline

Submit your completed online application along with all supporting documents before the relevant closing date.

Pay close attention to the two different closing dates:

• For current tertiary students: 15 January 2027.
• For current Matric students: 22 January 2027.

Outcome: A successfully submitted application enters you into the selection process.

Mistake to Avoid: Submitting your application after the deadline. Late applications will not be considered. It’s advisable to submit well before the final date to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Step 5: Await Selection Process and Potential Interview

After submitting your application, wait for the BASF South Africa Trust to review it.

Here’s what to expect:

• Shortlisting: If your application meets the criteria, you will be shortlisted.
• Further Information: Shortlisted candidates may be asked to provide additional details.
• Interview: You might be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process.

Outcome: Successful candidates will be notified by the Trust. If you do not receive feedback, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Supportive Tip: Prepare for a potential interview by researching BASF, understanding your chosen field of study, and being ready to articulate your financial need and academic aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions