BASF South Africa Trust Bursaries 2027: A Guide for Black Female Students

The BASF South Africa Trust is offering a valuable 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 degrees in specific fields of study. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about this bursary, from eligibility to application requirements.

About the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary

The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary is designed to support academically promising Black female students who face financial challenges in affording tertiary education. The program focuses on fields that are important for scientific and industrial advancement. It covers both undergraduate and Honours levels, but not postgraduate studies like Master’s or PhD degrees.

Eligible Fields of Study

Students applying for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary must be pursuing qualifications in one of the following areas:

• Chemistry: This includes various branches of chemistry that lead to undergraduate or Honours degrees.
• Engineering: All engineering disciplines that align with the Trust’s focus are eligible.
• Sciences: This category covers specific science fields, excluding Medical Sciences and Economic Sciences. It’s important to confirm that your chosen science qualification falls within the Trust’s defined scope.

What the Bursary Covers

Successful applicants can expect comprehensive financial support for their studies. The bursary covers:

• Tuition Fees: All costs associated with your university or college tuition will be paid.
• Textbooks: Funds will be provided to purchase necessary study materials and textbooks.
• Accommodation: Support for living expenses, including accommodation, is included.
• Monthly Stipend: A regular stipend will be provided to assist with other living costs throughout the academic year.

This full funding makes it a significant opportunity for students who might otherwise struggle to finance their higher education journey.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary, candidates must meet several key requirements:

• Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
• Gender: The bursary is exclusively for female students.
• Race: Applicants must identify as Black, as defined by the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) codes. This includes individuals of African, Coloured, and Indian descent.
• Academic Standing: You must either be currently completing your Matric (Grade 12) in 2026 or have already completed Matric.
• Study Level: You must be studying or planning to study an eligible Undergraduate or Honours qualification.
• Field of Study: Your chosen course must be in Chemistry, Engineering, or an eligible Science field.
• Institution: You must be studying at a recognized and accredited tertiary institution within South Africa.
• Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income not exceeding R630,000 per annum.
• Academic Record: A strong academic performance is required.
• Criminal Record: Applicants must not have a criminal record.
• Other Bursaries: You cannot be receiving another bursary or scholarship for the 2027 academic year.

Who Will Not Qualify?

Certain applicants will not be eligible for this bursary. This includes:

• 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 who are already receiving funding from another bursary or scholarship for 2027.
• Anyone who does not meet the citizenship, gender, BBBEE, academic, or other specified eligibility criteria.

Required Documents for Application

A complete application requires several supporting documents. Ensure all are certified copies unless otherwise stated:

• South African ID document.
• Matric certificate or your latest Matric results.
• Full academic record, including your most recent available results.
• Proof of acceptance from your university or tertiary institution.
• Proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income. This can be recent payslips, an affidavit if unemployed, or proof of grant/pension.
• A Curriculum Vitae (CV) that is no more than three pages long.

Make sure all documents are clear, legible, and uploaded correctly to avoid disqualification.

The Selection Process

Candidates who meet the initial requirements will be shortlisted. Those selected may be contacted for further information or to attend an interview. If you do not receive communication from the Trust after the application period, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

How to Apply

Applications for the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary must be submitted online through the official BASF South Africa Trust bursary application portal. You will need to complete the online application form accurately and upload all the required supporting documents before the closing date.

Application Closing Dates

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

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

It is highly recommended to submit your application well before these dates to avoid any last-minute issues.

Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, review this checklist to ensure you have met all requirements:

• Confirm you meet the citizenship, gender, and BBBEE criteria.
• Verify your chosen course of study is in an eligible field.
• Ensure your household income is within the R630,000 per annum limit.
• Confirm you are applying for an Undergraduate or Honours degree.
• Check that all your submitted documents (ID, academic records, etc.) are certified.
• Include your latest academic results and university acceptance letter.
• Provide the necessary proof of household income.
• Make sure your CV is three pages or less.
• Confirm you are not currently receiving any other bursary or scholarship for 2027.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about the BASF South Africa Trust Bursary Programme, you can reach out to the Trust directly via email at [email protected]. Please clearly state your query to ensure you receive the appropriate assistance.

Conclusion

The BASF South Africa Trust Bursary offers a significant financial aid opportunity for Black female students in South Africa. By providing full funding for studies in Chemistry, Engineering, and select Science fields, the Trust aims to empower young women to achieve their academic and career goals. Carefully review all eligibility criteria and gather all necessary documents to submit a strong application before the closing dates.