If you’re a high-performing learner dreaming of a future in engineering, science, or technology, the Sasol South African Mainstream Bursary Programme 2026 could be your breakthrough opportunity.
This prestigious bursary is one of the most competitive and rewarding funding programmes in South Africa. It not only covers your full university costs but also prepares you for a long-term career in one of the country’s leading energy and chemical companies.
With South Africa focusing on energy transition, sustainability, and industrial innovation, Sasol is investing in young talent who can shape the future.
Why the Sasol Bursary Is Highly Valuable
Unlike many bursaries that only cover tuition, the Sasol bursary offers complete financial and career support.
This means you don’t just study—you are guided into a professional career path.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Full financial coverage
- Structured academic support
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Access to Sasol’s Graduate Development Programme
- Guaranteed work experience through a workback agreement
For students serious about building a technical career, this is more than funding—it’s a career launchpad.
Quick Overview of the Sasol Bursary 2026
Here are the key details you need to know:
- Programme Name: Sasol South African Mainstream Bursary Programme
- Opening Date: 1 April 2026
- Closing Date: 17 May 2026
- Study Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Study Mode: Full-time only
- Age Limit: Under 30 years
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Funding Type: Full bursary
- Workback Requirement: Yes
- Distance Learning: Not allowed
What the Sasol Bursary Covers
This bursary is designed to remove financial stress so you can focus fully on your studies.
Full Benefits Include:
- Tuition fees (fully paid)
- Accommodation support
- Prescribed textbooks
- Monthly stipend
- Academic support programmes
- Mentorship from professionals
- Career exposure opportunities
This level of support makes it one of the most comprehensive bursaries in South Africa.
Fields of Study Funded
Sasol focuses on scarce and critical skills, especially in engineering, science, and data-related fields.
Undergraduate Degrees Supported
You can apply if you plan to study:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemistry (up to Honours level)
- Geology (up to Honours level)
- Data Science (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research)
Students studying Mine Surveying (B.Eng Tech.) at Universities of Technology may also qualify.
Important Requirement
You must take Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy.
Postgraduate Research Fields
For postgraduate students, Sasol supports research aligned with sustainability and energy transition.
Key Research Areas Include:
Chemical Engineering:
- Fluid dynamics
- Process modelling
- Reactor technology
- Thermodynamics
- Separation processes
Chemistry:
- Catalysis
- Polymer science
- Environmental chemistry
- Analytical chemistry
- Water and waste sustainability
Data Science:
- Applied mathematics
- Statistics
- Cyber Security
These fields are chosen to align with South Africa’s future economic and environmental needs.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under 30 years old
- Apply or be accepted at a recognised South African university
- Study full-time
- Choose an approved degree programme
- Have strong academic results
- Submit only one application
Important Restrictions
- UNISA and other distance-learning institutions are not supported
- Diplomas are not funded
- Hybrid or combined degrees are not accepted
Understanding the Workback Agreement
One of the key features of the Sasol bursary is the workback obligation.
What This Means
After completing your studies, you will work for Sasol for a period equal to the years of funding you received.
Why This Is Beneficial
- You gain guaranteed work experience
- You enter a structured graduate programme
- You build a strong professional network
- You improve long-term career stability
This makes the bursary ideal for students committed to a career in engineering or science.
You can also:
- View latest Internships
- View latest Learnerships
- View Latest Bursaries
- View latest Government jobs
- View latest Scholarships
- View latest Fellowships
- View latest Apprenticeships
How the Selection Process Works
The Sasol bursary is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
What Sasol Looks For
- Strong academic performance
- Alignment with scarce skills
- Industry relevance of your field
- Future business needs
- Sustainability focus (for postgraduate applicants)
Important Tip
Grade 12 learners apply using Grade 11 results, so your performance before matric is critical.
Documents Required for Application
To avoid disqualification, prepare all documents early:
- South African ID copy
- Academic transcripts
- Grade 11 results (if in matric)
- Proof of university application or acceptance
- Updated CV
- Motivation letter (recommended)
Submitting a complete and accurate application significantly improves your chances.
How to Apply for the Sasol Bursary 2026
Applications must be completed online through Sasol’s official platform.
Application Rules
- Only online applications are accepted
- Email submissions are not allowed
- Late applications are rejected
- Incomplete applications are disqualified
Support Contact
If you experience technical issues:
- Name: Berlyne Rasool
- Phone: 086 010 6235
- Email: berlyne.rasool@adcorpgroup.com
Expert Tips to Increase Your Chances
Because this bursary is extremely competitive, preparation is key.
Winning Strategy
- Apply as early as possible
- Maintain high Mathematics marks
- Choose high-demand fields
- Submit all documents correctly
- Prepare for interviews
- Apply for multiple bursaries
Also Consider Applying For
- EWSETA bursaries
- Mining SETA bursaries
- Provincial bursaries
- University scholarships
Smart applicants never rely on one opportunity.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. Use your Grade 11 results when applying.
Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
No. Pure Mathematics is required.
Can I study through UNISA?
No. Only full-time university study is allowed.
Are diploma courses funded?
No. Only degree programmes are supported.
Is employment guaranteed?
There is a workback agreement, which usually leads into Sasol’s Graduate Development Programme.
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Final Thoughts
The Sasol Bursary Programme 2026 is more than just financial support—it’s a gateway into a high-impact career in engineering, science, and innovation.
If you are dedicated, academically strong, and passionate about contributing to South Africa’s future, this opportunity is worth pursuing.
But remember: competition is tough. Preparation, consistency, and attention to detail will set you apart.
Application Deadline
Closing Date: 17 May 2026
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
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