Sasol Bursary Applications 2027 are now open for South African students studying engineering, chemistry, data science and more. Below is everything you need to know about the Sasol bursary, including eligible fields of study, requirements, and how to apply.
Sasol Bursary Applications 2027: Full Funding for Engineering and Science students
The Sasol Bursary applications for the 2027 academic year are now officially open, giving talented South African students a chance to study at university with full financial and developmental support. This highly competitive bursary programme is designed to develop future scientists and engineers who will contribute to South Africa’s innovation, energy transition, and economic growth.
Applications for the Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme opened on 1 April and will close on 17 May 2026. Students interested in engineering, chemistry, data science, geology, and other science-related fields are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
What the Sasol Bursary Programme Offers
The Sasol Bursary Programme is considered one of the most comprehensive bursaries available to South African students pursuing science and engineering degrees.
Successful applicants receive a full bursary package, which typically includes:
- Tuition fees at a recognised South African university
- Accommodation and study materials
- Financial support during the study period
- Academic and career development programmes
- Mentorship and professional exposure
Beyond financial support, bursary recipients also benefit from structured development opportunities, including exposure to industry professionals and technical experts.
After successfully completing their studies, graduates may be considered for employment within the Sasol Group through its Graduate Development Programmes.
However, applicants should note that the bursary includes a work-back or pay-back obligation, meaning graduates may be required to work for the company after completing their studies.
Fields of Study Covered by the Sasol Bursary
Students may apply for degree programmes only. Diplomas are not supported under the Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme.
Another important requirement is that Mathematics Literacy or Technical Maths will not be accepted. Applicants must have standard Mathematics as a subject.
Undergraduate Degree Programmes (BEng / BSc)
The bursary supports full-time studies in the following fields:
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry (Honours level required)
- Civil Engineering
- Data Science – Computer Science
- Data Science – Mathematics
- Data Science – Operations Research
- Data Science – Statistics
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Geology (Honours level required)
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy / Metallurgical Engineering (Honours required)
- Mining Engineering
Undergraduate Engineering Technology Degree
Students studying at a University of Technology may apply for:
- Mine Surveying (B.Eng. Tech.)
Postgraduate Sasol Bursary Opportunities
The Sasol bursary programme also supports postgraduate research degrees, including:
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
These postgraduate bursaries focus specifically on Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, particularly research that contributes to South Africa’s energy transition and sustainability goals.
Key research disciplines include:
Chemical Engineering
- Fluid Dynamics
- Mathematical and Statistical Modelling
- Process Modelling
- Reactor Technology
- Separation Technology
- Thermodynamics
Chemistry
- Advanced Analytical Chemistry (Vibrational Spectroscopy or Gas Chromatography)
- Catalysis and Polymer Science
- Environmental Science (Water, Waste, or Air studies with dispersion modelling)
Other specialised fields
- Cyber Security
- Data Science – Applied Mathematics
- Data Science – Statistics
Applicants do not need to submit a complete research proposal during the application stage. However, candidates should have a clear idea of the research area they wish to pursue and how it may support sustainability initiatives.
Successful postgraduate candidates will collaborate with Sasol technical experts and university supervisors to finalise a research proposal.
Key Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Sasol Bursary applications for 2027, applicants must meet several important criteria.
Basic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be younger than 30 years old at the time of application
- Intend to study full-time at a recognised South African university
- Apply for a degree programme (not a diploma)
- Have strong academic results, particularly in Mathematics and Science
Distance-learning institutions such as UNISA are not eligible under this bursary programme.
Students must also ensure that they apply for only one bursary application, as multiple submissions may invalidate the process.
Important Academic Conditions
Sasol bursaries are awarded based on academic merit and alignment with the company’s talent needs.
Important academic conditions include:
- Students applying for first-year university studies typically apply using their Grade 11 results.
- If the bursary is awarded, it will be conditional based on final Grade 12 results.
- Students already studying at university must submit their latest academic records.
If an applicant provides incorrect or misleading information at any stage of the application process, the bursary may be withdrawn immediately.
Selection Process and Competitiveness
The Sasol bursary programme receives thousands of applications every year, but only a limited number of bursaries are awarded.
The selection process includes:
- Initial application screening
- Academic assessment
- Possible psychometric testing
- Interviews with shortlisted candidates
Because of the high level of competition, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. Sasol carefully evaluates candidates based on academic performance, potential, and alignment with business needs.
Applicants will typically receive notification regarding their application status by the end of November.
Important Rules for Applicants
Students should keep the following rules in mind when applying:
- Applications must be submitted before the closing date
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
- Applications submitted by email will not be accepted
- Only online applications through the official Sasol bursary website are valid
- Non-South African citizens are not eligible
Applicants must also ensure that all academic information and supporting documents are accurate.
How to Apply for Sasol Bursary Applications 2027
Students interested in applying can submit their applications online.
Application Steps
- Visit bursary Application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload the required supporting documents
- Submit the application before the closing date
Application Period:
1 April – 17 May 2026
Applicants experiencing technical issues during the application process can contact the bursary support team:
- Email: berlyne.rasool@adcorpgroup.com
- Call Centre: 086 010 6235
Why the Sasol Bursary Is Highly Valuable
The Sasol bursary programme is more than just financial aid. It represents a long-term investment in South Africa’s scientific and engineering talent.
Through this programme, Sasol aims to support young professionals who will drive innovation in critical industries such as:
- Energy transition
- Sustainable chemical production
- Digital technology
- Advanced engineering
The bursary also supports national development by helping address the skills shortage in STEM careers across the country.
For ambitious students who are passionate about science, technology, and engineering, this bursary could open the door to both world-class education and career opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The Sasol Bursary applications for 2027 present an exceptional opportunity for South African students who want to build careers in engineering, chemistry, data science, and other scientific fields.
With comprehensive financial support, mentorship, and potential employment opportunities, the programme provides a powerful pathway for young talent to succeed in highly technical industries.
Students who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply early and ensure that all documentation is submitted correctly before the 17 May 2026 deadline.
Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions about professional goals. you can contact me at info@careersfocus.co.za or our website https://careersfocus.co.za/