The South African Petroleum Refinery (SAPREF) has opened applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme, offering financial support to high-performing South African students pursuing careers in engineering, science, and business-related fields.
Closing date: 12 February 2026
Study level: Undergraduate (1st or 2nd year)
Institutions: Public universities in South Africa only
What Is the SAPREF Bursary Programme?
The SAPREF Bursary Programme aims to develop scarce and critical skills needed in South Africa’s energy, engineering, and industrial sectors.
Through this bursary, SAPREF invests in young talent to help build a sustainable pipeline of future professionals who can contribute to national energy security, infrastructure development, and economic growth.
About SAPREF
SAPREF (South African Petroleum Refinery) operates one of South Africa’s major petroleum refineries and plays a vital role in the country’s fuels supply chain.
Beyond refining, SAPREF is committed to skills development and youth empowerment, supporting students in technical, engineering, and commercial disciplines through structured bursary and training initiatives.
Fields of Study Covered (2026)
SAPREF bursaries will be awarded for full-time undergraduate studies in the following fields:
Engineering & Science
- Chemical Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Electrical Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Instrumentation Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Environmental Science (BSc)
Business & Commerce
- Finance (BCom)
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Human Resources Management
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Completed Matric
- Studying or intending to study in one of the listed fields
- Entering 1st or 2nd year of study in 2026
- Accepted to or registered at a public university in South Africa
(Private institutions are not funded) - Strong academic performance
⚠️ Failure to meet any requirement may result in disqualification.
QUICK LINKS:
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 3 weeks after the closing date
- If no response is received within this period, consider the application unsuccessful
How to Apply for the SAPREF Bursary 2026
There is no application form.
Applicants must submit their documents by email:
recruitmentapply@sapref.com
Email subject line: SAPREF Bursary 2026
Required Documents
Send clear copies of the following:
- Certified South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic record (if currently studying)
- Proof of university acceptance or registration
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
⚠️ Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Closing Date Reminder
12 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted
Apply early to avoid missing this opportunity.
Why the SAPREF Bursary Matters
South Africa faces a growing demand for skills in engineering, energy, logistics, and supply chain management. The SAPREF Bursary Programme not only provides financial support but also industry recognition, helping students access high-impact careers in the energy and industrial sectors.
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- National Empowerment Fund (NEF): Compliance Internships 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.
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