Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary 2025

About the Provider

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is one of the world's largest and most respected companies serving science. Its mission is to enable customers to make the world cleaner, safer and healthier, and the company supports research and clinical work in laboratories, hospitals, universities and industries across the globe. Through its industry-leading brands, including Applied Biosystems, Thermo Scientific, Fisher Scientific, Invitrogen, Patheon, Unity Lab Services and PPD, the company delivers innovative technology, pharmaceutical services and convenient access to a vast catalogue of products and consumables. Its work touches almost every part of modern science, from genomics and drug discovery to environmental analysis and clinical diagnostics.

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust is a broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) initiative established to extend the company's commitment to science into long-term social impact in South Africa. The Trust focuses specifically on Black South African students pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) qualifications, with the goal of helping more young people from previously disadvantaged backgrounds enter and excel in technical careers. The word "Phambili" means "forward" or "go ahead" in Nguni languages, reflecting the Trust's ambition to push South African STEM talent forward.

South Africa has a clear shortage of skilled STEM graduates, particularly in engineering, technology and the sciences that underpin modern industry. Many young people who have the academic potential to thrive in these careers face significant financial barriers to higher education. Tuition is expensive, accommodation costs can be prohibitive, and ongoing study costs such as textbooks, equipment, transport and living allowances often add up to amounts that families simply cannot cover.

The Phambili Trust addresses this gap by funding tuition, living expenses and additional study-related costs for selected Black students at recognised South African universities and tertiary institutions. By doing so, the Trust does not only invest in individuals; it strengthens the country's broader STEM pipeline. Bursars who emerge from the programme often go on to become engineers, scientists, doctors, researchers, technologists and entrepreneurs who contribute meaningfully to South Africa's economy and society.

For learners and students who match the profile, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with strong potential in mathematics and science, the Phambili Trust Bursary is one of the most direct ways to convert academic talent into a fully funded STEM career pathway. The Trust's link to a globally respected science and technology brand also gives bursars access to a recognisable, well-regarded story that they can build on for the rest of their careers.

## About the Provider Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is one of the world's largest and most respected companies serving science. Its mission is to enable customers to make the world cleaner, safer and healthier, and the company supports research and clinical work in laboratories, hospitals, universities and industries across the globe. Through its industry-leading brands, including Applied Biosystems, Thermo Scientific, Fisher Scientific, Invitrogen, Patheon, Unity Lab Services and PPD, the company delivers innovative technology, pharmaceutical services and convenient access to a vast catalogue of products and consumables. Its work touches almost every part of modern science, from genomics and drug discovery to environmental analysis and clinical diagnostics. The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust is a broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) initiative established to extend the company's commitment to science into long-term social impact in South Africa. The Trust focuses specifically on Black South African students pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) qualifications, with the goal of helping more young people from previously disadvantaged backgrounds enter and excel in technical careers. The word "Phambili" means "forward" or "go ahead" in Nguni languages, reflecting the Trust's ambition to push South African STEM talent forward. South Africa has a clear shortage of skilled STEM graduates, particularly in engineering, technology and the sciences that underpin modern industry. Many young people who have the academic potential to thrive in these careers face significant financial barriers to higher education. Tuition is expensive, accommodation costs can be prohibitive, and ongoing study costs such as textbooks, equipment, transport and living allowances often add up to amounts that families simply cannot cover. The Phambili Trust addresses this gap by funding tuition, living expenses and additional study-related costs for selected Black students at recognised South African universities and tertiary institutions. By doing so, the Trust does not only invest in individuals; it strengthens the country's broader STEM pipeline. Bursars who emerge from the programme often go on to become engineers, scientists, doctors, researchers, technologists and entrepreneurs who contribute meaningfully to South Africa's economy and society. For learners and students who match the profile, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with strong potential in mathematics and science, the Phambili Trust Bursary is one of the most direct ways to convert academic talent into a fully funded STEM career pathway. The Trust's link to a globally respected science and technology brand also gives bursars access to a recognisable, well-regarded story that they can build on for the rest of their careers.

About the Program

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is offered for the 2025 academic year to Black South African students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The bursary is part of the Trust's broader broad-based black economic empowerment initiative, which aims to make high-quality STEM education accessible to students who would otherwise face significant financial barriers.

Funding is targeted at any STEM-related degree, which gives applicants flexibility to pursue qualifications that genuinely match their strengths and interests. Eligible programmes can include physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering across all disciplines, biotechnology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, environmental science and many other related fields. Both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, including Honours, Master's and PhD, are funded, allowing the Trust to support students at every stage of their academic journey.

The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time and is renewable based on application, eligibility and academic performance. This means that bursars are encouraged to maintain strong results, communicate openly with the Trust and reapply each year that they need continued support. Each new cycle gives the Trust the opportunity to monitor progress and ensure that funds are being used effectively.

A defining feature of the programme is its commitment to economically disadvantaged students. Successful applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need, which is assessed through a thorough review of household income and supporting documents. The Trust is particularly interested in students who, despite difficult circumstances, have shown resilience and academic potential. Letters from parents, guardians or community leaders that explain a student's context can therefore play an important supporting role.

Applications can be submitted online or by hardcopy. Online applications are the preferred method, but the Trust accommodates first-year students who do not have reliable internet access by allowing hardcopy submissions. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three months from the closing date. If you do not hear back during that period, the Trust asks that you accept that your application has been unsuccessful and continue to pursue other opportunities.

## About the Program The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is offered for the **2025 academic year** to Black South African students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in **Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)**. The bursary is part of the Trust's broader broad-based black economic empowerment initiative, which aims to make high-quality STEM education accessible to students who would otherwise face significant financial barriers. Funding is targeted at any STEM-related degree, which gives applicants flexibility to pursue qualifications that genuinely match their strengths and interests. Eligible programmes can include physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering across all disciplines, biotechnology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, environmental science and many other related fields. Both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, including **Honours, Master's and PhD**, are funded, allowing the Trust to support students at every stage of their academic journey. The bursary is awarded for **one academic year** at a time and is renewable based on application, eligibility and academic performance. This means that bursars are encouraged to maintain strong results, communicate openly with the Trust and reapply each year that they need continued support. Each new cycle gives the Trust the opportunity to monitor progress and ensure that funds are being used effectively. A defining feature of the programme is its commitment to economically disadvantaged students. Successful applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need, which is assessed through a thorough review of household income and supporting documents. The Trust is particularly interested in students who, despite difficult circumstances, have shown resilience and academic potential. Letters from parents, guardians or community leaders that explain a student's context can therefore play an important supporting role. Applications can be submitted online or by hardcopy. Online applications are the preferred method, but the Trust accommodates first-year students who do not have reliable internet access by allowing hardcopy submissions. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three months from the closing date. If you do not hear back during that period, the Trust asks that you accept that your application has been unsuccessful and continue to pursue other opportunities.

Bursary Benefits

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is structured as a meaningful, holistic support package for South African STEM students. Specific benefits include:

Tuition fees for the funded academic year at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution.
Living expenses, helping bursars manage the day-to-day costs of attending university.
Additional study-related expenses that may arise during the academic year, ensuring that students do not have to choose between academic work and basic needs.
Renewable funding based on application, eligibility and academic performance, providing the potential for multi-year support across an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
Access to the Phambili Trust network and engagement with a globally respected science and technology brand committed to empowering Black South African students in STEM fields.
Indirect career-development benefits, since being recognised by a Trust connected to Thermo Fisher Scientific can strengthen your CV when applying for future internships, vacation work and graduate positions.

The specific value of the bursary depends on the qualification, institution and individual circumstances of each successful candidate. Bursars should engage proactively with the Trust to clarify the exact level of support and any obligations that come with it before signing the bursary agreement.

## Bursary Benefits The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is structured as a meaningful, holistic support package for South African STEM students. Specific benefits include: - **Tuition fees** for the funded academic year at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution. - **Living expenses**, helping bursars manage the day-to-day costs of attending university. - **Additional study-related expenses** that may arise during the academic year, ensuring that students do not have to choose between academic work and basic needs. - **Renewable funding** based on application, eligibility and academic performance, providing the potential for multi-year support across an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification. - Access to the **Phambili Trust network** and engagement with a globally respected science and technology brand committed to empowering Black South African students in STEM fields. - Indirect career-development benefits, since being recognised by a Trust connected to Thermo Fisher Scientific can strengthen your CV when applying for future internships, vacation work and graduate positions. The specific value of the bursary depends on the qualification, institution and individual circumstances of each successful candidate. Bursars should engage proactively with the Trust to clarify the exact level of support and any obligations that come with it before signing the bursary agreement.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet every one of the following requirements. Failure to meet any single requirement will result in disqualification.

You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
You must NOT be older than 35 years of age.
You must be Black, as per the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice.
You must have completed Matric.
You must be studying or intending to study towards a STEM-related degree qualification at undergraduate or postgraduate level (Honours, Master's or PhD).
You must be studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
You must come from an economically disadvantaged background.
You must demonstrate genuine financial need.

The Trust prioritises Black students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have proven academic ability and a clear interest in STEM. Applicants without a credible STEM-focused qualification or without sufficient evidence of financial need are unlikely to progress through the selection process.

## Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet every one of the following requirements. Failure to meet any single requirement will result in disqualification. - You must be a **South African citizen** or permanent resident. - You must NOT be older than **35 years of age**. - You must be **Black**, as per the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice. - You must have completed Matric. - You must be studying or intending to study towards a **STEM-related degree qualification** at undergraduate or postgraduate level (Honours, Master's or PhD). - You must be studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa. - You must come from an **economically disadvantaged background**. - You must demonstrate **genuine financial need**. The Trust prioritises Black students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have proven academic ability and a clear interest in STEM. Applicants without a credible STEM-focused qualification or without sufficient evidence of financial need are unlikely to progress through the selection process.

Required Documents

Submit clear, certified copies of all the documents listed below as part of your online or hardcopy application. Missing or unclear documents are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected.

Certified copy of your South African ID document.
Certified copy of your Matric certificate, if entering 1st year.
Full academic record, including the latest results, if you are currently studying.
Proof of acceptance into a tertiary institution, on the institution's letterhead.
University tuition fee statement, where applicable.
Invoice or quotation for your accommodation, where applicable.
A clear motivational letter explaining why you deserve the award.
Certified copies of your parents' or guardians' ID documents.
Proof of household income (parents', guardians' or your own): payslips or letter of employment if employed; three months of bank statements if self-employed; affidavit if unemployed; certified copy of SASSA letter if receiving a social grant.

All certifications must be done at the South African Police Services or the South African Post Office and must NOT be older than three months at the time of submission.

## Required Documents Submit clear, certified copies of all the documents listed below as part of your online or hardcopy application. Missing or unclear documents are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected. - Certified copy of your South African ID document. - Certified copy of your Matric certificate, if entering 1st year. - Full academic record, including the latest results, if you are currently studying. - Proof of acceptance into a tertiary institution, on the institution's letterhead. - University tuition fee statement, where applicable. - Invoice or quotation for your accommodation, where applicable. - A clear motivational letter explaining why you deserve the award. - Certified copies of your parents' or guardians' ID documents. - Proof of household income (parents', guardians' or your own): payslips or letter of employment if employed; three months of bank statements if self-employed; affidavit if unemployed; certified copy of SASSA letter if receiving a social grant. All certifications must be done at the South African Police Services or the South African Post Office and must NOT be older than three months at the time of submission.

How to Apply

Confirm that you meet every eligibility requirement, particularly citizenship, age, B-BBEE classification and STEM field of study.
Decide whether you will apply online (preferred) or by hardcopy. Hardcopy is intended for first-year undergraduates without internet access.
Online applications: visit the Trust's online application portal and create an account using a working email address.
Complete the online form in full, paying close attention to questions about your academic record, household income and reasons for needing financial support.
Hardcopy applications: download the official application form from the Trust's website, print it and complete it neatly.
Prepare clear, certified copies of every required supporting document, including ID, Matric or academic record, proof of acceptance, fee statements and parents' or guardians' documentation.
Write a clear motivational letter that explains your background, your STEM interest, your career goals and why you should be awarded the bursary.
For online applications, upload all documents through the portal. For hardcopy applications, scan or post your completed form and supporting documents to the Trust by email.
Email your completed hardcopy application to info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za using the subject line "Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary 2025".
Submit your application before the closing date of 28 February 2025. Late applications will not be accepted, so submit early to allow time to fix any issues with your documents.

## How to Apply 1. Confirm that you meet every eligibility requirement, particularly citizenship, age, B-BBEE classification and STEM field of study. 2. Decide whether you will apply online (preferred) or by hardcopy. Hardcopy is intended for first-year undergraduates without internet access. 3. **Online applications:** visit the Trust's online application portal and create an account using a working email address. 4. Complete the online form in full, paying close attention to questions about your academic record, household income and reasons for needing financial support. 5. **Hardcopy applications:** download the official application form from the Trust's website, print it and complete it neatly. 6. Prepare clear, certified copies of every required supporting document, including ID, Matric or academic record, proof of acceptance, fee statements and parents' or guardians' documentation. 7. Write a clear motivational letter that explains your background, your STEM interest, your career goals and why you should be awarded the bursary. 8. For online applications, upload all documents through the portal. For hardcopy applications, scan or post your completed form and supporting documents to the Trust by email. 9. Email your completed hardcopy application to **info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za** using the subject line **"Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary 2025"**. 10. Submit your application before the **closing date of 28 February 2025**. Late applications will not be accepted, so submit early to allow time to fix any issues with your documents.

Tips for Success

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary attracts strong applicants from across the country. Use these tips to give yourself the best chance:

Lead with academic strength. Push your Mathematics, Physical Science and any STEM-related subjects as hard as you can. Strong results are the single biggest predictor of success in the selection process.
Tailor your motivational letter. Avoid generic letters. Talk about your specific STEM interest, the modules and projects that excite you, and the kind of career you want to build. Include a brief personal story that explains your background and resilience.
Be precise about financial need. Provide certified payslips, an affidavit for unemployed parents, three months of bank statements for self-employed parents and SASSA letters where applicable. The Trust uses these to make a fair assessment.
Get high-quality scans. Avoid blurry photos taken on a phone. Use a flatbed scanner or a good document scanning app, save in PDF, and label files clearly (for example, "Surname_ID.pdf").
Check certification dates. All certifications must be no older than three months. Plan SAPS or Post Office visits well in advance, especially around the deadline.
Show concrete STEM exposure. Mention any science Olympiads, robotics competitions, coding clubs, mathematics camps, internships or community science projects. These build credibility beyond marks alone.
Use a professional email address. A simple firstname.surname-style email is preferable to nicknames. Make sure that you check your inbox and spam folders regularly during the review window.
Prepare for renewals. Even if you are awarded the bursary, plan for the next cycle. Strong, consistent academic performance is what keeps the funding flowing year after year.
Apply early. Aim to submit at least two to three weeks before 28 February 2025. Last-minute uploads often hit technical issues.
Apply for backup funding. Combine this application with NSFAS, university bursaries, the National Research Foundation (for postgraduate students), and other STEM-focused programmes such as those offered by Old Mutual, Sasol or Investec, to build a solid funding portfolio.

## Tips for Success The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary attracts strong applicants from across the country. Use these tips to give yourself the best chance: - **Lead with academic strength.** Push your Mathematics, Physical Science and any STEM-related subjects as hard as you can. Strong results are the single biggest predictor of success in the selection process. - **Tailor your motivational letter.** Avoid generic letters. Talk about your specific STEM interest, the modules and projects that excite you, and the kind of career you want to build. Include a brief personal story that explains your background and resilience. - **Be precise about financial need.** Provide certified payslips, an affidavit for unemployed parents, three months of bank statements for self-employed parents and SASSA letters where applicable. The Trust uses these to make a fair assessment. - **Get high-quality scans.** Avoid blurry photos taken on a phone. Use a flatbed scanner or a good document scanning app, save in PDF, and label files clearly (for example, "Surname_ID.pdf"). - **Check certification dates.** All certifications must be no older than three months. Plan SAPS or Post Office visits well in advance, especially around the deadline. - **Show concrete STEM exposure.** Mention any science Olympiads, robotics competitions, coding clubs, mathematics camps, internships or community science projects. These build credibility beyond marks alone. - **Use a professional email address.** A simple firstname.surname-style email is preferable to nicknames. Make sure that you check your inbox and spam folders regularly during the review window. - **Prepare for renewals.** Even if you are awarded the bursary, plan for the next cycle. Strong, consistent academic performance is what keeps the funding flowing year after year. - **Apply early.** Aim to submit at least two to three weeks before 28 February 2025. Last-minute uploads often hit technical issues. - **Apply for backup funding.** Combine this application with NSFAS, university bursaries, the National Research Foundation (for postgraduate students), and other STEM-focused programmes such as those offered by Old Mutual, Sasol or Investec, to build a solid funding portfolio.

Career Prospects

Graduates with STEM qualifications are central to South Africa's long-term economic and technological development. The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is positioned to support students who will go on to play important roles across science, industry, research and entrepreneurship.

Engineering graduates typically pursue careers across electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical, biomedical and industrial engineering. They work for engineering consultancies, manufacturers, mining and resources companies, energy utilities and infrastructure firms. With time, many move into project management, technical leadership and senior management roles, while others specialise in research and development or move into entrepreneurship.

Life sciences graduates in fields such as biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology and molecular biology often pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, public health and research. They can work in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, medical diagnostic firms, government health agencies and global organisations such as the World Health Organisation. The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing health challenges in Africa have only increased demand for skilled life scientists.

Physical sciences and chemistry graduates find roles in industries that depend on scientific expertise: chemicals, mining, food and beverages, materials, energy and environmental services. Roles include process chemist, quality controller, materials scientist, R&D specialist and laboratory manager. With experience and further qualifications, graduates can lead research divisions, quality systems and innovation initiatives.

Mathematics, statistics and data science graduates are in particularly strong demand. They work in financial services, insurance, fintech, retail analytics, telecommunications and consulting. Roles include data analyst, data scientist, actuary, quantitative analyst and machine learning engineer. The growth of artificial intelligence, big data and digital business in South Africa creates significant opportunities for graduates with strong quantitative skills.

Computer science and IT graduates can become software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, network engineers, cloud architects and product managers. Their skills are needed across banking, retail, government, mining, healthcare and start-ups. Many bursars build international careers, taking advantage of remote work to access global companies while staying based in South Africa.

Postgraduate research-focused bursars often pursue academic and scientific careers, contributing to universities, research councils and innovation hubs. They publish papers, attend conferences and build reputations as specialists in their fields. South Africa's research councils, including the CSIR, ARC, MRC and HSRC, employ many such graduates.

More broadly, Phambili Trust bursars carry a strong narrative: high-achieving Black students who used STEM education to change their personal trajectories and contribute to South Africa's technical capacity. This story resonates with employers, scholarship committees and international institutions, which often opens doors to advanced studies, fellowships and leadership development opportunities locally and abroad.

## Career Prospects Graduates with STEM qualifications are central to South Africa's long-term economic and technological development. The Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Bursary is positioned to support students who will go on to play important roles across science, industry, research and entrepreneurship. **Engineering graduates** typically pursue careers across electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical, biomedical and industrial engineering. They work for engineering consultancies, manufacturers, mining and resources companies, energy utilities and infrastructure firms. With time, many move into project management, technical leadership and senior management roles, while others specialise in research and development or move into entrepreneurship. **Life sciences graduates** in fields such as biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology and molecular biology often pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, public health and research. They can work in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, medical diagnostic firms, government health agencies and global organisations such as the World Health Organisation. The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing health challenges in Africa have only increased demand for skilled life scientists. **Physical sciences and chemistry graduates** find roles in industries that depend on scientific expertise: chemicals, mining, food and beverages, materials, energy and environmental services. Roles include process chemist, quality controller, materials scientist, R&D specialist and laboratory manager. With experience and further qualifications, graduates can lead research divisions, quality systems and innovation initiatives. **Mathematics, statistics and data science graduates** are in particularly strong demand. They work in financial services, insurance, fintech, retail analytics, telecommunications and consulting. Roles include data analyst, data scientist, actuary, quantitative analyst and machine learning engineer. The growth of artificial intelligence, big data and digital business in South Africa creates significant opportunities for graduates with strong quantitative skills. **Computer science and IT graduates** can become software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, network engineers, cloud architects and product managers. Their skills are needed across banking, retail, government, mining, healthcare and start-ups. Many bursars build international careers, taking advantage of remote work to access global companies while staying based in South Africa. **Postgraduate research-focused bursars** often pursue academic and scientific careers, contributing to universities, research councils and innovation hubs. They publish papers, attend conferences and build reputations as specialists in their fields. South Africa's research councils, including the CSIR, ARC, MRC and HSRC, employ many such graduates. More broadly, Phambili Trust bursars carry a strong narrative: high-achieving Black students who used STEM education to change their personal trajectories and contribute to South Africa's technical capacity. This story resonates with employers, scholarship committees and international institutions, which often opens doors to advanced studies, fellowships and leadership development opportunities locally and abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Thermo Fisher Phambili Trust Bursary?

Black South African citizens or permanent residents under 35 years of age, who have completed Matric and are studying or intending to study a STEM-related degree at a recognised South African tertiary institution, and who come from an economically disadvantaged background.

Which fields of study are covered?

Any STEM-related degree, which includes most science, technology, engineering and mathematics qualifications at undergraduate, Honours, Master's or PhD level.

Is the bursary only for first-year students?

No. The bursary supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students. It is renewable based on application, eligibility and academic performance, allowing students to be supported across multiple years.

What does the bursary cover?

Tuition fees, living expenses and additional expenses incurred during your studies, subject to the bursary agreement.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. Applicants must not be older than 35 years.

How do I apply?

The preferred method is online via the Trust's application portal. Students without internet access in their first year of undergraduate study may apply by hardcopy and email the completed form and documents to info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za.

When do applications close?

Applications close on 28 February 2025. Applications received after this date are not accepted.

When will I hear back?

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three months from the closing date. If you do not hear back, please accept that your application was unsuccessful for the current cycle.

What documents must be certified?

All certifications must be done at the South African Police Services or the South African Post Office and must NOT be older than three months at the time of submission.

What if my parents are unemployed or self-employed?

Provide an affidavit confirming unemployment, three months of bank statements if self-employed, or a SASSA letter if receiving a social grant. The Trust uses these documents to assess household income fairly.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the Thermo Fisher Phambili Trust Bursary? Black South African citizens or permanent residents under 35 years of age, who have completed Matric and are studying or intending to study a STEM-related degree at a recognised South African tertiary institution, and who come from an economically disadvantaged background. ## Which fields of study are covered? Any STEM-related degree, which includes most science, technology, engineering and mathematics qualifications at undergraduate, Honours, Master's or PhD level. ## Is the bursary only for first-year students? No. The bursary supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students. It is renewable based on application, eligibility and academic performance, allowing students to be supported across multiple years. ## What does the bursary cover? Tuition fees, living expenses and additional expenses incurred during your studies, subject to the bursary agreement. ## Is there an age limit? Yes. Applicants must not be older than 35 years. ## How do I apply? The preferred method is online via the Trust's application portal. Students without internet access in their first year of undergraduate study may apply by hardcopy and email the completed form and documents to **info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za**. ## When do applications close? Applications close on **28 February 2025**. Applications received after this date are not accepted. ## When will I hear back? Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three months from the closing date. If you do not hear back, please accept that your application was unsuccessful for the current cycle. ## What documents must be certified? All certifications must be done at the South African Police Services or the South African Post Office and must NOT be older than three months at the time of submission. ## What if my parents are unemployed or self-employed? Provide an affidavit confirming unemployment, three months of bank statements if self-employed, or a SASSA letter if receiving a social grant. The Trust uses these documents to assess household income fairly.

Applications Closing

Applications close on 28 February 2025. The Trust may run future cycles, so monitor their channels and prepare your documents in advance.

About the Organization

Thermo Fisher Scientific Phambili Trust Email: info@tfsphambilitrust.co.za