Armscor Bursaries 2026: Apply for Fully Funded Engineering, IT & Science Studies

The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor), in partnership with the South African defence industry, has opened applications for its Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.

This bursary supports high-performing South African students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to pursue full-time studies in critical science, engineering, and technology fields aligned with the future needs of the defence sector.

Bursary closing date: 26 February 2026

About the Armscor Bursary Programme

The Armscor Bursary Scheme is designed to address South Africa’s shortage of scarce engineering and science skills within the defence and technology industries.

The programme not only provides full financial support, but also exposes students to the defence industry through vacation work opportunities, helping them build a strong foundation for future careers.

Studies must be undertaken at recognised public tertiary institutions in South Africa.

Fields of Study Funded by the Armscor Bursary

Bursaries will be awarded for full-time studies in the following priority disciplines:

  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Biochemistry / Chemistry / Physics
  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Cyber Security
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Electronics / Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechatronics Engineering
  • Human Kinetics and Ergonomics Science
  • Naval Engineering / Marine Engineering
  • Physics and Astrophysics

These fields align with the long-term skills needs of South Africa’s defence industry.

What the Armscor Bursary Covers

The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:

  • Tuition fees
  • Prescribed textbooks
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Living allowance
  • Vacation work opportunities (where available)

This support allows students to focus fully on their studies without financial pressure.

Who Should Apply?

The Armscor bursary is ideal for:

  • Matric learners (Class of 2025)
  • Students who have already completed Matric
  • First-year or continuing tertiary students in STEM fields
  • Youth interested in careers within the defence and technology sectors

Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Be currently in Matric (2025) or have completed Matric
  • Have achieved minimum levels 5, 6, and 7 in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English
  • Be studying or intending to study full-time in 2026
  • Be accepted or planning to study at a recognised public tertiary institution
  • Have a strong academic record
  • Demonstrate financial need (combined household income must not exceed R1 million per year)
  • Show interest in a career in the defence industry
  • Be from a previously disadvantaged background

⚠️ Applicants who do not meet all requirements will not be considered.

QUICK LINKS:

How to Apply for the Armscor Bursary 2026

Applicants must complete the official Armscor Bursary Application Form.

 Download the Armscor Bursary Application Form 2026

Supporting Documents Required

Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following:

  • South African ID document
  • Matric mid-year results (if currently in Matric)
  • Matric certificate (if Matric completed)
  • Full academic record (if currently studying)
  • Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents or death certificates (if deceased)
  • Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income, such as:
    • Latest payslips
    • Affidavit if unemployed or informal trader
    • Proof of SASSA grant
    • Death certificate (if applicable)

⚠️ Applications with missing documents may be disqualified.

Submission Methods

Applications must be submitted before 26 February 2026 using one of the following methods:

Email Submission

Send your completed application and supporting documents to:
bursaries@armscor.co.za

Email subject line:
Armscor Bursary Application – Full Qualification Name

Postal Submission

Send applications to:

Senior Manager: Learning & Organisation Development
Armscor LTD
Private Bag X337
Pretoria
0001

Shortlisting and Further Requirements

  • Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks after the closing date
  • If no feedback is received within this period, applications may be regarded as unsuccessful
  • Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit additional documents, including:
    • Final Matric results
    • Proof of university acceptance or registration
    • Student number
    • Official fee statement (if currently studying)

Why Apply for the Armscor Bursary?

The Armscor bursary offers:

  • Funding for scarce and high-demand qualifications
  • Exposure to South Africa’s defence, engineering, and technology sectors
  • Strong preparation for long-term professional careers
  • Financial support covering both academic and living costs

For academically strong students, this bursary provides a powerful pathway into high-impact STEM careers.

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