Thermo Fisher Bursary: Science Funding (Closes 28 Feb)

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary 2026 is a major funding opportunity for South African students pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) at an accredited tertiary institution. 

This bursary is offered through the Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust, a broad-based Black economic empowerment initiative aimed at supporting learners who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

The bursary covers key costs such as tuition fees and living expenses, and may include other study-related expenses where additional funds are available. 

Applications must be submitted before the 28 February 2026 closing date to be considered. 

This funding can help students focus on academic achievement without the heavy financial burden of tertiary study.

What Is the Thermo Fisher Bursary?

The Thermo Fisher Bursary is administered by the Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust.

It provides financial assistance to South African learners who are studying or planning to study in STEM fields at recognised universities or universities of technology within the country. 

The Trust’s goal is to support academic development and empowerment through bursaries that cover education costs and help students complete their programmes. 

The bursary is awarded for one academic year but is renewable based on eligibility, academic performance, and continued funding availability.

Who Can Apply for the Thermo Fisher Bursary 2026?

To qualify for the Thermo Fisher Bursary 2026, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:

1. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
2. Be Black as defined by the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice, which is part of the bursary’s broad-based empowerment criteria.
3. Be under the age of 35 at the time of application.
4. Have completed Matric or be currently studying at a recognised tertiary institution.
5. Be studying or planning to study within STEM fields such as science, engineering, mathematics, or technology.
6. Come from an economically disadvantaged background and demonstrate financial need.

Both undergraduate and postgraduate students (such as Honours, Master’s, and PhD) are typically eligible provided they meet the criteria and are enrolled in a qualifying programme.

What Fields of Study Does the Bursary Cover?

The Thermo Fisher Bursary 2026 supports studies in fields that fall under the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) umbrella. 

These include, but are not limited to:

1. Biological Sciences
2. Chemistry and Physics
3. Environmental Science and Biotechnology
4. Engineering and Applied Technology
5. Mathematics, Statistics, and Data Sciences
6. Information Technology and Computer Science

Eligible fields must contribute to science and technology development and be offered by recognised and accredited South African tertiary institutions. 

Applicants are encouraged to ensure their chosen field meets these requirements before applying.

What Costs Does the Thermo Fisher Bursary Cover?

The bursary primarily covers the following:

1. Tuition fees for the academic year.
2. Living expenses to help with day-to-day costs.
3. Ancillary study costs, such as textbooks and lab fees, if funds remain after the main expenses are provided.

The bursary aims to reduce the financial burden of study so that students can focus on achieving strong academic results. 

Because it is renewable, students may be able to reapply each year, provided they meet academic and eligibility criteria.

What Documents Are Required to Apply?

When applying for the Thermo Fisher Bursary 2026, applicants must prepare clear and certified copies of several supporting documents. 

These commonly include:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID.
2. Matric certificate or latest academic results.
3. Proof of acceptance or registration from a recognised tertiary institution.
4. University or college tuition fee statement.
5. Accommodation cost statement or invoice (if applicable).
6. Proof of household income, such as payslips, bank statements, affidavit of unemployment, or SASSA grant letter.
7. Motivational letter explaining your study goals and financial needs.
8. Parent or guardian ID and income documents, where applicable.

All certifications must be recent and done at a recognised commissioner of oaths, SAPS, or post office.

Missing or incorrect documents can disqualify your application.

How Do You Apply?

Applications for the Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary 2026 are typically submitted online through the official bursary portal provided on the Trust’s website. 

Applicants complete the official application form, upload all required documents, and verify that all information is correct before submission.

First-year undergraduate students without internet access may be permitted to complete a hardcopy application form, which must be scanned and emailed to info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za.

However, online submission is strongly preferred.

Once submitted, applications are reviewed over a period of about two months after the closing date. 

If you do not receive feedback within three months, your application is likely unsuccessful.

What Is the Closing Date?

The official closing date for the Thermo Fisher Bursary 2026 is 28 February 2026. 

All applications must be received before 23:59 South African time on this date. 

Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted or considered. Early submission is recommended to avoid technical issues.