About Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA)
The Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) was established in 1946, building on a history that dates back to 1885 when a group of 7 pharmacists formed the South African Pharmaceutical Association. The PSSA’s mission is to promote the professional, educational, and economic interests of its members and the pharmaceutical profession. It aims to uphold professional integrity, improve standards of professional conduct, represent the pharmacy sector, enhance pharmaceutical services, and promote diversity and community representation.
Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa Bursaries
The Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (FPE) under the PSSA offers bursaries for both undergraduate and postgraduate pharmacy studies at accredited institutions in South Africa. The bursaries are available for students from their second year of study onward.
Undergraduate Bursary:
The Undergraduate Bursary is for BPharm pharmacy students in their 2nd year or higher. It is awarded for one academic year at a time, and renewal requires submitting a new application. Bursaries are granted based on financial circumstances, academic achievements, and other financial assistance received.
Postgraduate Bursary:
The Postgraduate Bursary supports Master’s and Doctoral students pursuing pharmacy-related subjects. The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time, and candidates are selected based on project viability (60%) and academic potential, along with financial need (40%).
Eligibility Criteria for PSSA Bursaries
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for PSSA bursaries:
Undergraduate Bursary:
- South African citizens who are PSSA student members (membership is free).
- Demonstrated financial need with a maximum household income of R130,000 annually before tax.
- Minimum 60% average overall in all subjects.
- Full-time BPharm students entering 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year.
- Studying at a recognized tertiary institution in South Africa.
Postgraduate Bursary:
- South African citizens who are PSSA student members (membership is free).
- Full-time postgraduate pharmacy students with an undergraduate qualification.
- Pursuing a postgraduate (Masters or Doctoral) Pharmacy qualification.
- Studying at a recognized tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Project viability and academic potential (60%) and financial need (40%).
- Paid-up member of the PSSA who has renewed membership at least once.
How to Apply and Application Details
For the FPE Undergraduate Bursary:
- The application form for the 2025-2026 undergraduate bursary will be available from June 2025-2026.
- Attach the required supporting documents along with the application form.
- Submit applications via post or hand delivery/courier.
For the FPE Postgraduate Bursary (Masters/Doctorals):
- Download and complete the PSSA Postgraduate Bursary Application Form.
- Attach the necessary supporting documents.
- Submit the application form, supporting documents, and signed pages via email or fax.
Additional application procedure for postgraduate applicants:
- Read the Guidelines for award of the SAAHIP post-graduate bursary.
- Submit applications to the SAAHIP National Executive for eligibility assessment.
- Recommendation by SAAHIP to the FPE for approval of transfer of funds.
- Award and administration of the bursary by FPE.
Closing Date
- Undergraduate Bursary: Application is currently closed. Reopens in June 2025-2026.
- Postgraduate Bursary (Masters/Doctoral): May 2.
Contact Details
For inquiries related to the bursaries, contact the PSSA directly:
- Contact Person: Ms. Nitsa Manolis (FPE Administrator)
- Tel: 012 470 9562
- Email: nitsa@pssa.org.za
