The Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA), alongside its Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (FPE), is again empowering South Africa’s future pharmacists by offering bursaries for the 2026 academic year. These bursaries support both undergraduate BPharm and postgraduate (master’s and doctoral) students, providing much‑needed relief for student finances and encouraging academic excellence.
What are the PSSA/FPE Bursaries?
Through the FPE, PSSA distributes annual bursaries to eligible pharmacy students:
- Undergraduate bursaries: Available to second‑, third‑, or fourth‑year BPharm students at South African accredited institutions
- Postgraduate bursaries: For full‑time master’s or doctoral candidates in pharmacy‑related disciplines .
Each bursary is granted per academic year, with students required to re‑apply for continued funding.
WHO QUALIFIES?
Undergraduate (BPharm)
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens who have passed Matric.
- Be full‑time BPharm students entering Year 2, 3, or 4 (Year 1 excluded)
- Attend a recognised South African tertiary institution.
- Hold PSSA student membership (which is free – contact nitsa@pssa.org.za)
- Have passed all previous modules with at least a 60% overall mid‑year average
- Demonstrate financial need: a family income of less than R130 000 per annum before tax
Postgraduate (MSc/PhD)
Eligibility criteria include:
- South African citizenship and a completed undergraduate degree.
- Full‑time enrolment in a pharmacy‑related master’s or doctoral programme at a recognised institution.
- PSSA student membership
- Submission of a detailed research proposal and project budget.
- Demonstrated academic ability (60%) and financial need (40%)
Awards & Selection Criteria
- Undergraduates: Selection is based on financial circumstances, academic performance, and other support received
- Postgraduates: Evaluated by project viability and academic potential (60%), alongside financial need (40%) Funding is awarded for a single academic year, with renewal dependent on annual re‑application and continued eligibility.
HOW TO APPLY
- Download the Right Application Form
- Undergraduate applicants can download the 2026 form directly from the PSSA website
- Postgraduate forms will be made available in March 2026 .
- Complete the Form & Gather Documents
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of ID.
- Academic transcripts or records.
- Motivational letter (for postgraduates, from a pharmacy lecturer).
- Detailed financial declaration (proof of household income).
- Submit Before the Closing Date
Return the completed application form to:
Nitsa Manolis, 435 Flinders Lane, Lynnwood, 0081 or applications can be sent via email to: nitsa@pssa.org.za
DOWNLOAD THE PHARMACEUTICAL SOCIETY OF SA (PSSA) BURSARIES FOR 2026 APPLICATION FORM HERE
Tips for a Compelling Application
- Join PSSA early: Membership is free—secure it now.
- Maintain strong grades: A 60% average is the minimum, but higher marks improve prospects.
- Be meticulous with documents: Missing or uncertified materials can disqualify you.
- Submit a polished research proposal: For postgraduates, show why your project matters and how it’s viable.
- Share your story: Highlight your financial need and academic aspirations in your motivational letter.
Why It Matters
Securing a PSSA bursary isn’t just financial assistance—it’s recognition from a professional body that invests in your future. Alumni often go on to play key roles in healthcare, academia, and policy. The bursary also fosters a dynamic community of PSSA members, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and enhanced career prospects.
The PSSA/FPE bursaries for 2026 are an exceptional opportunity to alleviate study costs and accelerate your pharmacy career. With clearly defined eligibility, transparent selection criteria, and substantial professional backing, this bursary is coveted for a reason.
If questions arise, contact Ms. Nitsa Manolis at 012 470 9562 or nitsa@pssa.org.za.
CLOSING DATE: 11 OCTOBER 2025
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