Introduction
South Africa’s demand for engineers, scientists and technology professionals continues growing as industries focus on infrastructure development, energy security, digital transformation and innovation. Access to quality STEM education remains one of the country’s most important priorities for long-term economic growth and workforce development.
Sasol has officially opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme, offering financial and academic support to students pursuing full-time undergraduate studies in engineering, science and related STEM fields at approved South African universities.
The bursary programme forms part of Sasol’s long-term investment in youth development, skills growth and future talent development within South Africa’s science, engineering and technology sectors.
Applications close on 17 May 2026.
Sasol 2027 Bursary Programme Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Sasol Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Organisation | Sasol |
| Study Level | Full-time undergraduate studies |
| Fields Covered | Engineering, science and STEM disciplines |
| Target Group | South African students |
| Study Institutions | Sasol-approved public universities |
| Financial Support | Full bursary funding |
| Closing Date | 17 May 2026 |
What Is the Sasol Bursary Programme?
The Sasol Bursary Programme is designed to support academically strong South African students pursuing careers in science, engineering and technology-related fields.
The programme provides comprehensive financial support while helping students develop into future STEM professionals.
According to Sasol, the programme also contributes to addressing South Africa’s growing STEM skills shortage while expanding educational opportunities for young people from underserved communities.
Why STEM Skills Matter in South Africa
South Africa continues facing increasing demand for professionals in science, engineering and technology sectors.
Industries require skilled workers in areas such as:
- Energy and chemicals
- Infrastructure development
- Digital transformation
- Environmental sustainability
- Healthcare innovation
- Industrial engineering
The United Nations estimates that Africa needs millions of additional engineers to support development and industrial growth across the continent.
South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 also prioritises increasing the number of learners qualifying for university studies involving Mathematics and Science.
Sasol’s Investment in Youth Development
Sasol says it currently supports approximately 300 students at South African universities through its bursary initiatives.
Since 2020, the company reports that it has:
| Sasol Youth Development Impact | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Mainstream bursaries awarded | 500+ |
| Engineers and scientists permanently employed | 300+ |
| Students currently supported | Around 300 |
The programme aims to strengthen South Africa’s future STEM workforce while improving access to higher education opportunities.
What the Sasol Bursary Covers
The bursary programme offers extensive financial and academic support for full-time university students.
Financial Support Includes:
| Bursary Benefit | Support Provided |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Full academic funding |
| Accommodation | Student housing support |
| Meals | Living support |
| Textbooks | Study materials |
| Pocket money | Monthly allowance |
| Study tools | Laptop and calculator allowance |
The programme also provides psychosocial support to help students succeed academically and personally during their studies.
Graduate Development Opportunities After Graduation
Students who successfully complete their degrees may receive opportunities to join the:
Sasol Graduate Development Programme
The programme is designed to help graduates transition into professional engineering and scientific careers through structured workplace development and mentorship.
This creates potential pathways toward long-term employment within the company and broader STEM industries.
Fields of Study Supported by the Bursary
The bursary programme supports several STEM disciplines at approved South African universities.
Approved Study Fields
| Engineering & Science Fields |
|---|
| Chemical Engineering |
| Civil Engineering |
| Electrical Engineering |
| Electronic Engineering |
| Industrial Engineering |
| Mechanical Engineering |
| Mining Engineering |
| Metallurgical Engineering / Metallurgy |
| Chemistry |
| Geology |
| Data Science |
| Mine Surveying |
Some fields require studies to Honours level, particularly:
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Metallurgy
Mine Surveying is currently supported only through the University of Johannesburg.
Data Science and Technology Careers Continue Growing
The inclusion of Data Science highlights growing industry demand for technology and analytics skills.
Data science-related studies may include:
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Operations Research
- Statistics
Technology-driven careers continue expanding globally as industries increasingly rely on digital systems and data analysis.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet Sasol’s minimum requirements before applying.
Minimum Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African citizen by birth |
| Residency | Permanent South African resident |
| Study Status | Registered or intending to register for 2027 |
| Institution Type | Sasol-approved public university |
| Academic Performance | Must meet minimum academic requirements |
Studies through the University of South Africa (UNISA) are not included in the programme.
Focus on Youth Empowerment and Diversity
The bursary programme encourages applications from:
- Women in STEM
- Learners from disadvantaged communities
- Youth from underserved areas
- Students from fenceline communities
Increasing representation and diversity within engineering and science remains an important national priority.
Why Bursaries Remain Important in South Africa
Financial barriers continue preventing many talented students from accessing tertiary education opportunities.
Bursary programmes help address challenges such as:
- Tuition affordability
- Accommodation costs
- Access to study resources
- Educational inequality
Support programmes help talented learners focus on academic success without excessive financial pressure.
How to Apply for the Sasol Bursary 2027
Interested students should apply online before the official closing date.
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Prepare academic records
- Ensure supporting documents are updated
- Review study programme requirements
- Submit applications before the deadline
Important Closing Date
Applications Close:
17 May 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Practical Tips for Applicants
Maintain Strong Mathematics and Science Results
STEM bursaries are highly competitive and often prioritise strong academic performance.
Prepare Supporting Documents Early
Ensure that ID copies, academic transcripts and other required documents are ready before submission.
Research Your Chosen Career Path
Understanding your chosen engineering or science field may help strengthen motivation statements and interviews.
Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Missing application deadlines | Applications may be rejected |
| Incomplete documents | Delays processing |
| Applying for unsupported fields | Ineligibility |
| Poor academic preparation | Reduced selection chances |
Careful preparation can improve application quality.
Why Engineering and Science Careers Are Future-Focused
Engineering and science professions remain among the most stable and globally relevant career paths.
These industries continue supporting:
- Innovation
- Infrastructure growth
- Environmental sustainability
- Technology advancement
- Economic development
STEM professionals often benefit from strong career growth and international employment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is offering the bursary programme?
The bursary is offered by Sasol.
What does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials, pocket money and study tools.
Which study fields are supported?
Fields include engineering, chemistry, geology, metallurgy and data science-related disciplines.
Can UNISA students apply?
No. Studies through University of South Africa are not considered.
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 17 May 2026.
Does the programme offer employment opportunities?
Successful graduates may be considered for the Sasol Graduate Development Programme.
Final Thoughts
The Sasol 2027 Bursary Programme continues offering important opportunities for talented South African students pursuing careers in engineering, science and technology.
With comprehensive financial support, professional development opportunities and pathways into STEM industries, the programme plays a valuable role in supporting youth empowerment and long-term workforce development.
As South Africa continues prioritising innovation, infrastructure and economic growth, bursary programmes focused on science and engineering remain important investments in the country’s future talent pipeline.
