Are you a South African student who is passionate about engineering and planning to pursue a career in the agricultural and industrial sectors? The VKB Group Engineering Bursary 2027 offers eligible students an opportunity to receive financial support while studying towards a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc Eng) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) specialising in Mechanical Engineering.

The bursary is aimed at academically strong students who demonstrate commitment, motivation, and the potential to contribute to South Africa’s agricultural and engineering industries. Whether you are currently in Grade 12 or already studying at a recognised higher education institution, this opportunity may help you achieve your educational goals.

This guide provides an overview of the bursary programme, eligibility requirements, application process, and useful tips for prospective applicants.

Bursary Overview

Programme: Engineering Bursary 2027

Company: VKB Group

Field of Study:
Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc Eng)

or

Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)

Specialisation:
Mechanical Engineering

Location:
Reitz, Free State

Application Opening Date:
1 July 2026

Application Closing Date:
31 August 2026

Bursary Intake:
January 2027

About VKB Group

The VKB Group is a South African agribusiness with operations across various sectors of the agricultural value chain. Over the years, the organisation has expanded beyond traditional farming activities to include food production, grain handling, logistics, financial services, insurance, processing, retail, information technology, engineering, procurement, and many other business functions.

The organisation focuses on developing future professionals by investing in education, skills development, and long-term career growth.

Through its bursary programme, VKB supports students pursuing qualifications that are relevant to its operational needs while helping to build future technical expertise within the industry.

About the Engineering Bursary

The Engineering Bursary Programme has been established to support students who wish to study Mechanical Engineering at a recognised South African higher education institution.

The programme is intended for motivated individuals with strong academic performance who are committed to developing careers in engineering.

Depending on the bursary agreement, recipients may also participate in practical workplace exposure such as vacation work during their studies.

Field of Study Supported

The bursary supports students studying one of the following qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)

or

• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)

Applicants should ensure that they are applying for an approved qualification at an accredited South African institution.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are invited from two categories of students:

Grade 12 Learners

Students currently completing Grade 12 who intend to begin their engineering studies in 2027.

Current University Students

Students already enrolled in a Mechanical Engineering qualification at a recognised South African university.

Minimum Requirements for Grade 12 Applicants

Grade 12 learners should meet the following requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must possess a valid South African Identity Document.
• Must achieve a minimum overall average of 70% in the National Senior Certificate.
• Must upload Grade 11 results.
• Must upload current Grade 12 results.

Academic performance plays an important role during the bursary selection process.

Minimum Requirements for University Students

Current tertiary students should meet the following criteria:

• Must be enrolled at an accredited South African higher education institution.
• Must be studying towards a Mechanical Engineering qualification.
• Must obtain a minimum average of 60% in major engineering subjects.
• Must submit a complete academic record, including 2026 results.

Providing accurate academic records is essential when submitting the application.

Additional Requirements

Applicants should also be willing to:

• Participate in vacation work opportunities arranged by VKB.
• Relocate after completing their studies if required for employment or work-back obligations.
• Communicate effectively in both English and Afrikaans, including speaking, reading, and writing.

These requirements form part of the programme’s objective of preparing students for future employment opportunities within the organisation.

What Is Vacation Work?

Vacation work provides students with practical workplace exposure during university holidays.

Participants may have the opportunity to:

• Observe engineering operations.
• Learn from experienced professionals.
• Develop practical technical skills.
• Gain exposure to engineering projects.
• Understand workplace procedures.
• Apply theoretical knowledge in real working environments.

Practical experience can complement university studies and contribute to professional development.

Benefits of an Engineering Bursary

A bursary can provide valuable support throughout your studies.

Potential benefits may include:

• Assistance with educational expenses, subject to the bursary agreement.
• Practical workplace exposure.
• Industry-related learning opportunities.
• Professional development.
• Mentorship opportunities.
• Networking with experienced professionals.
• Career development support.

Applicants should refer to the official bursary terms and conditions for full details of the financial assistance provided.

Skills That Can Strengthen Your Application

Although academic performance is important, applicants may also benefit from demonstrating:

• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Analytical thinking.
• Good communication.
• Teamwork.
• Time management.
• Commitment to learning.
• Adaptability.
• Leadership potential.
• Professional behaviour.
• Interest in engineering and agriculture.

These qualities can contribute to success during both academic studies and future workplace learning.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

Grade 12 Applicants

• South African ID.
• Grade 11 results.
• Current Grade 12 results.
• Additional supporting documents requested during the application process.

University Students

• South African ID.
• Full academic record.
• 2026 academic results.
• Proof of registration where applicable.
• Additional supporting documents requested during the application process.

Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and uploaded in PDF format if required.

Application Instructions

Applicants should carefully follow the application instructions.

Important guidelines include:

• Apply within the application period.
• Use Google Chrome when accessing the online application portal.
• Upload documents in PDF format.
• Complete all required sections accurately.
• Answer application questions honestly.
• Review all information before submitting the application.

Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.

Important Dates

Applications Open:

1 July 2026

Applications Close:

31 August 2026

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Selection Process

The bursary provider notes that:

• Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
• Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection.
• The organisation reserves the right not to award bursaries.

Selection decisions are generally based on academic performance, eligibility, and organisational requirements.