FEM Bursary 2026 – Application Process & More

The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) Pty Limited (FEM), established in 1936, is a specialist insurer focused on providing workers’ compensation cover to companies in the construction industry, particularly for workplace injuries and occupational illnesses. Beyond insurance, FEM demonstrates its commitment to long-term social impact through educational funding initiatives that support capable, driven students.

The FEM Bursary 2026 reflects this commitment by investing in academically deserving individuals who aspire to contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability, occupational health, and broader socio-economic development. The bursary supports students from diverse backgrounds who are motivated to address complex global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

In this article, you will find detailed information about the FEM Bursary 2026, including eligibility requirements, financial coverage, application procedures, and the closing date.

What is the FEM Bursary 2026?

The FEM Bursary 2026 is a financial assistance programme offered by the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company to support students pursuing higher education in fields aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities. These typically include occupational health and safety, environmental studies, sustainable development, finance, economics, and management.

The programme aims to strengthen professional capacity in areas directly related to workplace safety and risk management, which are at the core of FEM’s business mandate. By funding students in these disciplines, FEM helps build a pipeline of qualified professionals who can enhance safety standards, strengthen compliance frameworks, and drive sustainable development practices across industries.

Initially introduced to benefit a limited number of universities and colleges in South Africa, the bursary programme has progressively expanded its reach. This expansion reflects the growing demand for skilled professionals capable of addressing environmental risks, occupational hazards, and economic sustainability challenges at both national and global levels.

FEM Bursary Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the same, applicants must meet certain criteria:

• The candidate must be a South African citizen.
• Candidates must be studying full-time towards an undergraduate qualification within one of the fields listed for the bursaries.
• Candidate must have completed their first year of study (bursaries will not be awarded to first-year students and postgraduate students)
• Can be studying at an approved institution or a public University in South Africa
• Candidate must have a total household income of not more than R360 000 per year
• Also, the candidate must have a strong academic record.
• Candidates must not have any outstanding fees from previous years at their university.

Also, note that preference will be given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Another thing you must know is that there is no work-back obligation after students have completed their education; the candidate can work anywhere they want. There are also various higher education bursaries available. For more information, you can also read about the Higher Certificate Bursaries.

How to Apply Online for the FEM Bursary?

The FEM bursary application process is conducted online through FEM’s official website.

Candidates need to download the application form, fill it out, and attach the essential documents:

Some of the essential documents are as follows:

• Your South African ID document (certified copy)
• Your most recent academic record (certified copy)
• Your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents (certified copies)
• Your parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips or bank statements if employed, affidavit if unemployed, affidavit if an informal worker, proof of SASSA grant/disability grant/other grant or pension if applicable, death certificate if deceased, divorce certificate if divorced)
• If there are any other student dependents in your household, you also need proof of registration from a tertiary institution.

What is the FEM Bursary Monthly Allowance?

The bursary’s monthly allowance may vary depending on the specific programme and the student’s needs. This allowance is intended to cover living expenses, educational materials, and other necessary costs of pursuing higher education. The amount is usually specified in the bursary offer letter and may vary annually depending on the candidate’s application.

The FEM bursary allowance will cover programme-related expenses, including tuition fees and textbooks, and provide a monthly stipend. Candidates can also get the accommodation and meals covered by the bursary. The bursary is generally awarded for one academic year at a time and is renewable annually, subject to factors such as registered modules and community service participation.

When is the FEM Bursary Closing Date?

The closing date for the FEM Bursary application has not yet been announced. Applicants can check the bursary’s official website for upcoming closing dates. Applicants should submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues. Missing the deadline may result in the application not being considered.

If you have any queries related to the bursary programme, you can contact the FEM by telephone or email.

Tel: 011 359 4300

Email: enquiries@fema.co.za / info@fem.co.za

Conclusion

The FEM Bursary 2026 is an excellent opportunity for candidates who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need to receive support for their higher education. By providing financial assistance, FEM aims to empower students and support their educational and professional development in fields critical to workplace health and safety. 

Interested applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and submit their applications by the specified closing date.

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