The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2026 provides financial assistance to academically deserving South African students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies in selected fields. The programme is designed to support the development of future professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), while also offering limited opportunities for qualifying Non-STEM students who meet specific eligibility requirements.

Sasol Foundation Bursary

If you are planning to study at a public university in South Africa and require financial support, this bursary may help you achieve your academic and career goals. This guide explains the bursary categories, eligibility requirements, application process, important dates, and useful tips for preparing a strong application.

About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme was established to help develop South Africa’s future workforce by supporting talented students with strong academic potential. The bursary focuses primarily on undergraduate degree studies and aims to address skills shortages in critical sectors of the economy.

The programme gives priority to studies that support future industries, including the Green Economy and Digitalisation, while encouraging young South Africans to pursue careers that contribute to national development.

Application Period

For the 2026 intake, the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme accepts applications during the following period:

• Applications Open: 1 August 2026
• Applications Close: 23 August 2026

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date, as late applications are generally not considered.

Types of Bursaries Available

The programme consists of two main bursary categories.

STEM Bursaries

The largest category supports students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Priority is given to qualifications aligned with future economic needs, including:

• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science
• Medical Science
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Other approved STEM-related degrees

The bursary supports undergraduate degree studies only, and postgraduate bursaries are not available under this intake.

Non-STEM Bursaries

A limited number of Non-STEM bursaries are available.

These bursaries are reserved for qualifying applicants who are:

• From Sasol fence-line communities.
• Children of Sasol employees.
• Children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders.

These applicants may study approved non-STEM qualifications at eligible public universities.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must satisfy the eligibility requirements before submitting an application.

General requirements include:

• Must be a South African citizen by birth.
• Must intend to study full-time.
• Must study at an approved South African public university or university of technology (where applicable).
• Must be applying for a first undergraduate degree.
• Must meet the academic requirements.
• Must satisfy the household income criteria.
• Must meet the age requirement.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection, as the programme is competitive.

Household Income Requirement

Applicants will undergo financial screening.

The combined annual household income:

• Must not exceed R800,000 per year.

Priority is given to academically strong students who demonstrate financial need.

Age Requirement

Applicants should:

• Be 25 years old or younger when applying.

This requirement applies to first-time undergraduate applicants.

Academic Requirements

Academic performance is one of the most important selection criteria.

Applicants should demonstrate strong results throughout their academic studies.

University students applying for second, third, or fourth year funding should have achieved an average of at least 60% in all modules.

Fields of Study

The Sasol Foundation encourages applications from students studying approved STEM qualifications, including:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Statistics
• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science
• Medical Science
• Construction-related disciplines
• Manufacturing-related disciplines

The specific fields supported may vary according to programme requirements.

What the Selection Process May Consider

During the evaluation process, Sasol considers several factors, including:

• Academic performance.
• Financial need.
• Eligibility requirements.
• Supporting documentation.
• Household income verification.
• Citizenship.
• Compliance with programme requirements.

Only applicants who satisfy the eligibility criteria will proceed further in the selection process.

Documents to Prepare

Before starting your application, it is advisable to prepare:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), if requested.
• South African Identity Document.
• Latest academic results.
• Proof of household income where required.
• Proof of registration or intended registration.
• Additional supporting documents requested during the application process.

Providing complete and accurate documentation can help avoid delays in processing.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your application:

• Apply before the closing date.
• Ensure all information is accurate.
• Double-check uploaded documents.
• Submit clear academic records.
• Read every application instruction carefully.
• Keep copies of your supporting documents.
• Use accurate contact information.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Benefits of the Bursary

A bursary can provide valuable support by helping students focus on their studies.

Benefits may include:

• Financial assistance.
• Reduced educational expenses.
• Academic support opportunities.
• Career development.
• Exposure to industry.
• Professional growth opportunities.

Applicants should consult the official bursary information for details regarding available funding and conditions.

Why Choose a STEM Qualification?

STEM careers continue to play an important role in South Africa’s economic development.

Graduates in these fields may find opportunities in industries such as:

• Engineering
• Manufacturing
• Mining
• Agriculture
• Energy
• Technology
• Construction
• Environmental management
• Data science
• Healthcare

Developing skills in these sectors can contribute to long-term career growth.