Home Bursaries CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary
Open · Closes 15 Sep 2026

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research

CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary

Closes

15 September 2026

Value

Full tuition, books, housing, stipend, laptop

Level

Undergraduate

For

Matriculants & University students

Sector

Science & Engineering

Work-back

1 year per year funded

About this bursary

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research partners with the Sasol Foundation to fund full-time undergraduate qualifications. The scheme covers study and living expenses for selected priority disciplines in science, engineering, and technology.

Funding targets high-performing school leavers and current university students who wish to build technical careers in research or industrial development. Female candidates, black applicants, and persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Bursars receive comprehensive personal development support, including paid vacation work, senior mentorship, personal wellness resources, and practical project experience alongside industry experts.

Obligation

Recipients must work for the CSIR or Sasol Foundation for one year for every year of bursary funding received.

Courses of study covered

Chemical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Data Science
Electronic Engineering
Genetics / Cell Biology
Industrial Engineering
Information Technology
Material Flow Analysis
Mechatronic Engineering
Process Engineering / Life cycle assessment
System Engineering

What the bursary covers

Registration and full tuition fees at a South African public university
Prescribed books and study materials
On-campus housing or approved private accommodation
Regular living allowances and meals
Once-off laptop allowance
Academic and psychosocial support services
Up to six weeks of paid vacation work each year
Mentorship and interview preparation training for final-year students

Who can apply

You qualify if

  • Applicants must be unemployed South African citizens.
  • Matriculants need at least Level 5 in English, Level 6 in Mathematics, and Level 6 in Physical Science.
  • Current university students require an overall academic average of at least 65%.
  • Tertiary applicants must have passed all enrolled courses for their previous study period.
  • Studies must be full-time towards an undergraduate degree in an approved field at a public university.

You do not qualify if

  • Non-South African citizens are not eligible.
  • Students studying at private universities or private colleges are excluded.
  • Part-time students or employed individuals do not qualify.
  • Applicants with failed university modules are not considered.

Documents you need to submit

  • Certified copy of South African identity document
  • Grade 11 final report and latest matric results for school leavers
  • Complete university academic record for current tertiary students
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae

Ensure all submitted document copies are clear and certified.

How to apply

  1. 1
    Read the official bursary guidelines document thoroughly before starting your application.
  2. 2
    Visit the online application portal and register a new user account.
  3. 3
    Log in and complete all required personal and academic sections.
  4. 4
    Attach clear copies of your identity document, academic results, and CV.
  5. 5
    Submit your online application prior to the closing deadline.

Save your portal login details securely to monitor your application progress.

How you are selected

1
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to attend an interview.
2
Applicants who receive no response after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.

Forms, downloads and links

Last verified: September 2026   ·   Category: Engineering   ·   Reviewed by grantZA Editorial
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