CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries 2027

Who can apply

• Must be South African citizens
• Must be unemployed
• Must be currently in Matric
• Must intend to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree qualification in one of the listed fields in 2027
• Must intend to enrol at a public university in South Africa
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 5 for English
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Mathematics
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Physical Science
• Must be studying full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields
• Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%
• Must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period at university

Documents you will need

• Certified copy of ID document
• Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results, if currently in Matric
• Latest academic record, if currently studying
• Updated Curriculum Vitae
• Missing documents may result in disqualification.

How to apply

Applications are submitted directly to CSIR-SASOL Foundation - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.

Full details

CSIR, in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, invites unemployed South African students to apply for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2027.

Bursary Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026

Bursary Location: South Africa

About CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2027

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, is inviting students to apply for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.

The bursary is aimed at full-time, unemployed students who are pursuing qualifications in fields that are regarded as priority areas by the CSIR.

The programme supports studies in areas linked to research, technology development, innovation and corporate support fields.

Fields of Study Covered

Bursaries will be awarded for undergraduate studies in the following fields:

• 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

Who Is Encouraged to Apply?

The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is merit-based and aims to attract suitably qualified applicants.

The programme encourages applications from:

• Female students
• Black students
• Students living with disabilities
• Full-time unemployed students pursuing priority qualifications

What the Bursary Covers

The bursary will provide cover for the following expenses:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Books
• Accommodation
• Living allowances
• Once-off laptop allowance

Additional Benefits

Successful bursary recipients may also receive the following benefits:

• Psychosocial support
• Academic support
• Psychological support
• Student wellness programme
• Vacation work opportunities of up to 6 weeks per year
• Opportunity to work on real-life projects addressing socioeconomic challenges
• CSIR co-supervision through research projects
• Potential work placement opportunities at CSIR and related organisations
• Awards for top-performing students
• CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and other gifts
• Interview skills training for final-year students
• Onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team
• Possible mentorship by senior CSIR professionals

Service Contract

After graduation, bursary recipients will be required to work for CSIR and the Sasol Foundation.

The service obligation is one year of employment for every year of funding received.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to attend an interview.

Applicants who do not receive feedback should regard their bursary application as unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements for Current Matric Students

Current Matric learners must meet the following requirements:

Eligibility Requirements for Current University Students

Current university students must meet the following requirements:

Documents Required

Applicants must submit clear copies of the following supporting documents:

Missing documents may result in disqualification.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online at: CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2027

Applicants must read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 (.pdf) before applying.

Applicants must register an account before they can log in and apply.

Applicants are encouraged to read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 before submitting their applications.

Enquiries

For bursary-related queries, applicants may contact the CSIR Bursary Programme team.

Telephone: 012 841 2616Email: [email protected]

Important Notes

Applications close on 15 September 2026.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Applicants should apply before the closing date and ensure that all required supporting documents are uploaded correctly.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

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