Are you a driven South African student aiming for a career in engineering or science? Securing funding for your tertiary education can be a significant hurdle, but the Sasol Bursary Programme offers a pathway to achieving your academic and professional goals. This comprehensive programme supports full-time studies in critical fields, nurturing the next generation of leaders within the Sasol Group. Understanding the nuances of the application process and meeting the specific eligibility criteria are paramount to submitting a successful application.
Sasol Bursary Programmes: What's Open for 2027?
Sasol offers several bursary initiatives, each tailored to specific academic disciplines and applicant profiles. For the upcoming 2027 academic year, the Mainstream Bursary Programme is the primary opportunity available, with applications now open. It is crucial to note that applications for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme, Sasol Mining Bursary Opportunities, and the Energy Bursary Programme (Green Hydrogen Project) are currently closed until further notice. Prospective applicants are advised to monitor official Sasol communication channels for any updates on these programmes.
Mainstream Bursary Programme Details
The Mainstream Bursary Programme is designed to foster talent in essential engineering and science disciplines. Applications for the 2027 academic year commenced on 1 April and will close on 17 May. Successful candidates will be notified of the outcome by the end of November. This programme emphasizes a commitment to developing future professionals within Sasol's operational landscape.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies for a Sasol Bursary?
Meeting the Sasol bursary requirements is the first step towards securing funding. Applicants must adhere to specific citizenship, age, and academic stipulations.
- Citizenship: All applicants must be South African citizens. However, for the Sasol Foundation and Sasol Mining bursaries, South African citizenship by birth only is a strict requirement. The Sasol Mining Fence-line programme is exclusively for South African citizens by birth residing within designated Sasol Mining fence-line communities.
- Age Limits: For the Mainstream Bursary Programme, applicants must be under 30 years old at the time of application. The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme (when open) requires applicants to be under 25 years old.
- Academic Performance: A strong academic record is essential. Sasol does not accept Technical Maths or Maths Literacy as qualifying subjects. For the Mainstream B.Eng. and B.Sc. Engineering programmes, a minimum of Level 6 (70-79%) in Mathematics and Physical Science is required, along with Level 5 (60-69%) for English (Home Language/First Additional Language) or Level 4 (50-59%) for English (Second Additional Language). For the B.Eng. Tech. programmes under Sasol Mining, the requirement is Level 5 (60-69%) for Mathematics and Physical Science, and the same English criteria apply. Current university students applying for the Foundation bursary (when open) must demonstrate an average of 60% across all modules in their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year of study.
- Study Mode: Bursaries are awarded exclusively for full-time study at recognised South African Universities. Distance learning programmes, such as those offered by UNISA, are not supported, nor are dual, combined, or hybrid degree courses.
Eligible Fields of Study for Sasol Bursaries
Sasol strategically invests in bursaries for fields that are critical to its current operations and future growth. Both undergraduate and postgraduate studies are supported across a range of engineering and science disciplines.
Undergraduate Study Fields
The Mainstream Bursary Programme supports undergraduate studies leading to qualifications such as B.Eng. or B.Sc. in the following fields:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Data Science (including Computer Science, Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics)
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Geology
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy/Metallurgical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Chemistry (up to Honours level)
Additionally, the B.Eng. Tech. qualification, specifically in Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg, is supported under the Sasol Mining umbrella.
Postgraduate Study Fields
For postgraduate students (M.Sc., M.Eng., PhD.), Sasol encourages research in specialized areas, including:
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (with a focus on energy transition and circular economy research)
- Cyber Security
- Data Science (including Applied Mathematics and Statistics)
Community and Financial Requirements
Certain Sasol bursary programmes have specific criteria related to community ties and financial background. The Sasol Foundation and Mining bursaries are often prioritised for individuals from Sasol’s designated fence-line communities, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and children of Sasol employees. For the Sasol Foundation bursary, a key requirement is that the combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum.
The Sasol Mining Fence-line Programme is particularly focused, being exclusively for South African citizens by birth who are residents of Sasol Mining's defined fence-line communities. Proof of permanent residence in these areas will be necessary for applicants under this programme.
Work-Back Obligation and Application Strategy
A notable characteristic of many Sasol bursaries is the work-back and/or payback obligation. This arrangement signifies Sasol's investment in talent, requiring successful bursars to commit to working for the company for a defined period post-graduation. This ensures a pipeline of skilled professionals for Sasol's diverse operations.
Tips for a Successful Sasol Bursary Application:
- Verify Eligibility: Thoroughly check that you meet all stated requirements before starting your application.
- Confirm Field of Study: Ensure your chosen course is listed among the eligible fields.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including your South African ID, academic transcripts, and proof of residence if applicable to the specific programme. Current university students should have their full academic records and proof of registration ready.
- Apply Early: Avoid the last-minute rush. The closing date for the Mainstream programme is 17 May.
- Accuracy is Key: Provide only truthful and accurate information. Any discrepancies can lead to disqualification.
- Single Application: Apply to only one Sasol bursary programme. Submitting applications to multiple programmes will result in disqualification.
- Conditional Offers: Be aware that offers are conditional on your final results meeting or closely matching the results used for your application (e.g., Grade 11 results for matriculants).
The Sasol Bursary Programme represents a significant opportunity for ambitious South African students pursuing careers in engineering and science. With the application window for the 2027 Mainstream Bursary Programme open until 17 May, it's imperative to meticulously review the criteria, ensure your chosen field of study aligns with Sasol's needs, and prepare a strong, accurate application.
By understanding and fulfilling the requirements, you can enhance your chances of securing this valuable bursary and pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career with Sasol.
