Are you a Grade 12 learner or current university student pursuing a career in science, engineering, or technology? The CSIR, in partnership with the Sasol Foundation, is offering a comprehensive bursary to academically qualifying young South Africans, with a particular focus on increasing the participation of women, black individuals, and people with disabilities in these fields.

Fields of Study

This bursary supports undergraduate studies in the following areas:

• Mechatronic Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Computer Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Material Flow Analysis
• Process Engineering/Life Cycle Assessment
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Industrial Engineering
• Genetics/Cell Biology
• System Engineering

Who Can Apply

Current Grade 12 learners:

• South African citizen
• Intending to enrol full-time for the degree of choice at a South African public university
• English (Level 5)
• Mathematics (Level 6)
• Physical Science (Level 6)

Current university students:

• South African citizen
• Planning to enrol full-time at a South African university for 2027
• Must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period

Required Documents

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of identity document
• Latest academic record
• Grade 11 final year results (for current Grade 12 learners)

Applications missing any of these documents will be considered null and void.

What the Bursary Covers

For undergraduates, this comprehensive bursary covers:

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

Academic merit will be considered during selection, alongside the goal of increasing representation of women, black individuals, and people with disabilities in science, engineering, and technology.

Additional Benefits

CSIR-Sasol Foundation students also receive:

• Recognition through the CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates, and gifts
• Possible work placement opportunities at the CSIR and affiliated organisations
• Interview skills training for final year students
• Opportunities to work on real-life research projects addressing socioeconomic challenges, with CSIR co-supervision
• An onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team
• Psychosocial support, including academic and psychological assistance
• A student wellness programme
• Mentorship pairing with senior CSIR professionals
• Vacation work opportunities of up to six weeks per annum

Obligation

Recipients are required to work back one year for each year funded by the CSIR and Sasol Foundation.

Enquiries

CSIR Bursary Programme Team
Tel: (012) 841-2616
Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za

Apply Now