How to Apply for the Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary 2027

This guide will walk you through the process of applying for the Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary for the 2027 academic year. It’s designed for South African students pursuing undergraduate studies at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in specific fields. By following these steps, you can submit a complete and competitive application. Before you begin, ensure you meet the minimum requirements and have gathered all necessary documents.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify for the Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary. This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on an application that won’t be considered.

Here are the minimum requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Race: Must be Black, as defined by the BEE Act.
• Matriculation: Must have completed Matric.
• Institution: Must be studying at the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
• Study Mode: Must be studying full-time.
• Field of Study: Must be in one of the approved fields: BCom Accounting, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Industrial Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Year of Study: Must be entering your second, third, or fourth year of study in 2027.
• Academic Performance: Must have achieved at least a 65% overall average in 2026.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate financial need.
• Household Income: Combined household gross income must not exceed R45,000 per month.
• Other Funding: Must not be receiving financial support from another bursary or third party.
• Personal Drive: Must demonstrate a willingness to make a positive difference.

Mistakes to Avoid: Applying without confirming you meet all criteria, especially academic average and household income limits. Ensure your chosen field of study is on the approved list.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary supporting documents for your application. Having these ready will streamline the application process and ensure you don’t miss any crucial items.

Here are the required documents:

• Identification: Certified copy of your South African ID.
• Academic Records: Full academic record showing actual marks.
• Motivation: A motivational letter explaining your leadership qualities and how you intend to make a difference after completing your studies.
• Study Costs: An invoice or quotation of estimated study costs.
• Proof of Income: Parent or guardian proof of household income.
• Bank Statements: Three months’ bank statements.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Your updated CV.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting uncertified copies, incomplete academic records, or a generic motivational letter. Ensure all financial documents accurately reflect your household income and spending.

Step 3: Download and Complete the Application Form

Obtain the official Reatile Foundation Trust bursary application form and fill it out completely and accurately. This form is the primary document for your application.

Download the official Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary Application Form 2027 here: Click here to download the Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary Application Form 2027

Mistakes to Avoid: Using an outdated form, leaving any fields blank, or providing inaccurate personal information. Double-check all entries before proceeding.

Step 4: Write a Compelling Motivational Letter

Your motivational letter is your chance to impress the selection committee. Clearly articulate why you deserve the bursary and how you plan to contribute to society.

Here’s how to structure your letter:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter (applying for the Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary).
• Academic Background: Highlight your academic achievements, particularly your 65% average, and your chosen field of study.
• Leadership Qualities: Provide specific examples of your leadership experience, whether in school, community, or other activities.
• Future Impact: Explain how you intend to make a positive difference in your community or field after graduation. Connect this to the bursary’s goals.
• Financial Need: Briefly explain your financial circumstances and why this bursary is essential for your studies.
• Conclusion: Reiterate your enthusiasm and thank the committee for their consideration.

Mistakes to Avoid: Writing a generic letter that doesn’t address the prompt, focusing only on financial need without highlighting your potential, or failing to proofread for errors.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Send your completed application form and all supporting documents via email before the deadline. Ensure your submission is correctly formatted and includes the required subject line.

Email your completed application form and all supporting documents to: [email protected]

Use the following email subject line: Reatile Foundation Trust Bursary 2027

Mistakes to Avoid: Missing the application deadline (23 October 2026), sending incomplete documentation, or using the wrong email subject line, which could lead to your application being overlooked.

Step 6: Await Selection Notification

After submitting your application, wait for the selection committee to review applications and contact shortlisted candidates. Understand the timeline for feedback.

Here’s what to expect:

• Review Period: The Reatile Foundation Trust will review all applications.
• Shortlisting: Shortlisted applicants are expected to be contacted within one month after the closing date (approximately November 23, 2026).
• Unsuccessful Applications: If you do not receive feedback within this period, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Mistakes to Avoid: Repeatedly contacting the bursary office for updates before the specified notification period has passed. Be patient and professional.

Frequently Asked Questions