FEMEF Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship South Africa 2026

If you are a student from a rural village or urban location of South Africa, the FEMEF Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship could be the financial support you need to complete your studies. This prestigious scholarship targeting students who wish to embark on a career path of becoming qualified accountants. The FEM Education Foundation in partnership with the Make a Difference Leadership Foundation, provides not only full financial support but also mentorship and leadership development opportunities for future Chartered Accountants.

The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD) was established to support academically gifted students by providing access to quality education, mentorship, and personal development. The foundation focuses on nurturing ethical leaders who can positively influence South Africa’s future.

To expand its impact, MAD has partnered with the FEM Education Foundation NPC (FEMEF) to offer the Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honours Mike Ilsley’s lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and integrity.

FIELDS COVERED BY THE FEMEF MIKE ILSLEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Applications are invited for the 2026 academic year from students pursuing undergraduate studies in SAICA-accredited degree programmes, leading to a career as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)).

Students can view the list of recognised SAICA-accredited programmes and universities before applying.

SCHOLARSHIP COVERAGE

This is a comprehensive scholarship that supports students from their undergraduate degree through to the Honours year, which is required for the Chartered Accountancy qualification. The award includes:

  • Full tuition and study-related expenses
  • Leadership development and mentorship opportunities
  • Career guidance and personal support

The aim is to ensure recipients not only meet the academic requirements but also grow into responsible leaders in their communities and professions.

ElIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To be considered, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen
  • Must have completed Matric
  • Must be enrolled in a SAICA-accredited undergraduate degree
  • Must be in 1st or 2nd year of study in 2026
  • Must have achieved at least 70% for Financial Accounting in 2024
  • Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 70% in 2024
  • Must be registered at a recognised South African university
  • Must plan to qualify as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
  • Gross household income must not exceed R25 000 per month
  • Must show academic excellence
  • Must demonstrate leadership ability, strong values, responsibility, and community involvement

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must be submitted online via the FEMEF Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship Application 2026 official page.

REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Applicants must upload certified copies of the following documents (applications missing any of these will not be considered):

  • South African ID Document
  • Matric certificate
  • Full academic record, including latest results (on official letterhead)
  • Proof of registration for 2026 (on official letterhead)
  • Letter of good conduct from a lecturer, tutor, or academic staff member
  • Motivational letter
  • Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
  • Parents’ death certificates (if applicable)
  • Proof of household income (not older than 3 months):
    • Payslip/letter of employment if employed
    • 3 months’ bank statements or IRP5 if self-employed
    • Sworn affidavit if unemployed
    • Sworn affidavit if no bank account exists
  • Household income breakdown (combined monthly income)
  • Household composition details (number, ages, and details of dependents)
  • Information on any other bursaries, scholarships, or financial aid applied for (including NSFAS)

APPLICATION DEADLINE

The closing date for submissions is 31 August 2025. Late application will result in your disqualification.

SCHOLARSHIP CONTACT INFORMATION

For queries regarding the scholarship, contact the Make a Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD):