Website Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa
The first apothecary established in what is now South Africa was Joachim Blanck. A member of the Guild of Apothecaries in Amsterdam, Blanck settled in the Cape in 1653. It was not until the early 19th century that the function of the pharmacists in South Africa was first defined. This enabled pharmacists (Chemists and Druggists) to organise themselves into a professional group distinct from other medical professions.
The Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) is inviting students to apply for bursary funding for the 2026 academic year. These bursaries are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate Pharmacy-related studies.
Bursary Details:
Undergraduate Bursary:
- Eligibility:
- South African citizen
- Completed Matric
- Full-time BPharm student in the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of study (1st-year students are not eligible)
- Minimum overall average of 60% at mid-year
- Proven financial need (family income below R130,000 per annum before tax)
- Must be a PSSA student member
- Must have passed all previous subjects/modules
- Application Timeline: Undergraduate applications are currently CLOSED and will reopen in June 2025.
- Award Criteria: Based on financial circumstances, academic achievements, and other financial assistance received.
Postgraduate Bursary:
- Eligibility:
- South African citizen
- Completed Matric and an undergraduate qualification
- Full-time Masters or Doctoral Pharmacy student at a recognized South African tertiary institute
- Must be a PSSA student member
- Must read and agree to the terms and conditions of the bursary
- Award Criteria: Based on project viability and academic potential (60%) and financial need (40%).
- Application Deadline: 4 May 2025.
- Required Documentation:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified full academic record/transcript
- Motivational letter from a pharmacy lecturer
- Financial declaration (proof of household income)
How to Apply:
- Download the PSSA Bursary Application Form for 2026.
- Submit required documents via email to nitsa@pssa.org.za or fax to 0866 159 835.
Please ensure you have all required documents, as missing items will disqualify your application. Keep in mind that only certified copies of documents should be submitted, not originals. If shortlisted, you will be contacted. The decision of the committee is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
