If you plan to study Civil Engineering, Geology, Geochemistry, or Environmental Sciences at a South African university in 2026, the Jones & Wagener Bursary Programme is a valuable opportunity worth considering.
This bursary offers more than financial assistance. It also gives selected students access to practical industry experience, paid vacation work, and potential long-term employment with a respected South African consulting engineering firm.
Quick Overview
- Programme Name: Jones & Wagener Bursary Programme 2026
- Fields Supported:
- BEng Civil Engineering
- BSc Civil Engineering
- Geology
- Geochemistry
- Environmental Sciences
- Minimum Academic Requirements:
- 75% in Mathematics
- 75% in Physical Science
- Who Can Apply:
- Grade 12 learners
- Current university students
- What It Covers:
- Tuition fees (minimum)
- Possible accommodation support
- Possible textbook allowance
- Vacation Work:
- Six weeks paid workplace experience during recess
- Work-Back Requirement:
- Equal to the number of years funded
- Closing Date: 31 July 2026
- Outcome Notice: If no response by 31 October 2026, consider the application unsuccessful.
About Jones & Wagener
Jones & Wagener is a well-established South African consulting engineering and environmental services company. The firm works across key sectors that support economic growth and infrastructure development.
Main Areas of Expertise
- Mine waste engineering
- Tailings dam design
- Water systems
- Geotechnical investigations
- Environmental compliance
- Infrastructure engineering
- Impact management
Industries Supported
- Mining
- Energy
- Water resources
- Infrastructure development
- Environmental sustainability
The company invests in bursaries to help develop future engineers and scientists needed in these important industries.
Fields Supported by the Bursary
Civil Engineering
Civil engineers plan, design, and manage projects such as:
- Roads
- Bridges
- Dams
- Water systems
- Municipal services
- Mine infrastructure
Civil Engineering remains one of South Africa’s strongest career fields.
Geology
Geologists study:
- Rock and earth structures
- Mineral deposits
- Groundwater systems
- Site suitability
- Environmental conditions
This field supports mining, construction, and environmental management.
Geochemistry
Geochemistry specialists focus on:
- Soil chemistry
- Groundwater contamination
- Pollutants
- Mineral composition
This profession is important for environmental monitoring and responsible mining.
Environmental Sciences
Environmental professionals help organisations:
- Reduce pollution
- Meet regulations
- Protect biodiversity
- Preserve water resources
- Improve sustainability practices
Demand for environmental careers continues to grow.
What the Bursary Covers
At minimum, successful applicants receive:
- Full university tuition fees
Depending on available funding, additional support may include:
- Accommodation assistance
- Textbook allowance
This can make a major difference for students facing financial challenges.
Paid Vacation Work Included
One of the biggest benefits of this bursary is the six weeks paid vacation work experience.
Students may complete practical training at:
- Rivonia offices
- Centurion offices
Vacation work usually takes place during:
- July recess
- December recess
Benefits of Vacation Work
- Apply classroom knowledge in real projects
- Build workplace confidence
- Gain industry exposure
- Grow professional networks
- Strengthen your CV before graduation
Few bursaries offer this level of practical experience.
Work-Back Requirement After Graduation
After completing your studies, bursary recipients must work for Jones & Wagener for the same period they received funding.
Example:
- Funded for 3 years = Work back for 3 years
Why This Helps Graduates
- Guaranteed employment pathway
- Industry mentorship
- Real work experience
- Support toward professional registration
- Easier transition into the job market
Minimum Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Study or plan to study an approved qualification
- Achieve at least 75% in Mathematics
- Achieve at least 75% in Physical Science
- Be accepted or enrolled at a recognised South African university
Applicants below these requirements may not be considered.
Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed using the following factors:
1. Academic Performance
Strong marks are highly important.
Submit:
- Latest school results
- Academic transcripts
- University records (if applicable)
2. Financial Need
Students requiring financial support may receive preference.
3. Additional Factors
These may include:
- Career goals aligned with company sectors
- Leadership ability
- Communication skills
- Motivation for engineering or science careers
Documents Required
Prepare these before applying:
- Certified copy of ID
- Recent academic results
- Full academic transcript
- Updated CV
- Recent colour photo
- Personal details and ID number
Make sure documents are:
- Clear
- Correct
- Complete
- Easy to read
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Submit your application before the deadline.
Tips for Strong Applicants
Successful applicants often:
- Maintain marks above 75%
- Show interest in engineering or environmental careers
- Demonstrate leadership potential
- Submit complete documents
- Apply early
It is also smart to apply for multiple bursaries to improve your chances.
You Can Also Check:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. Grade 12 learners planning to study an approved degree in 2026 may apply.
Can university students apply?
Yes. Current students in eligible programmes may apply.
Is accommodation guaranteed?
No. It depends on available funding.
Is vacation work compulsory?
Yes. Selected students may complete six weeks paid workplace training.
Must I work for Jones & Wagener after graduation?
Yes. The work-back period matches the years funded.
What if I receive no feedback?
If you hear nothing by 31 October 2026, your application was unsuccessful.
Closing Date
31 July 2026
Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.