CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries 2027: Apply With Matric

The CSIR-SASOL Foundation is inviting unemployed South African students to apply for its 2027 Bursary Programme. This opportunity is for students pursuing studies in priority fields related to research and technology. The application closing date is 15 September 2026.

Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Matric or University Level (depending on applicant status)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2027

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in partnership with the SASOL Foundation, is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year. This programme aims to support full-time, unemployed students who are studying in fields identified as priorities by the CSIR. The bursary focuses on areas connected to research, technology development, innovation, and corporate support.

About CSIR and SASOL Foundation

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific research and development organisation in Africa. It aims to drive innovation and technological advancement for socio-economic development. The SASOL Foundation is committed to supporting education and skills development, particularly in science, engineering, and technology, to build a capable workforce for South Africa.

Fields of Study Covered

Bursaries are available for undergraduate studies in the following specific fields:

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

What the Bursary Covers

Successful applicants will receive financial support for various study-related expenses. The bursary aims to cover costs that can be a barrier to education for many students.

The bursary will provide cover for:

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

Additional Benefits

Beyond financial support, bursary recipients can expect a range of developmental benefits. These are designed to support academic success and future career prospects.

Successful bursary recipients may also receive:

• Psychosocial support
• Academic support
• Psychological support
• Access to a student wellness programme
• Vacation work opportunities for up to 6 weeks annually
• The chance to work on real-life projects addressing societal challenges
• Co-supervision by CSIR researchers on projects
• Potential work placement opportunities at CSIR and related organisations
• Awards for top-performing students
• CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates, and gifts
• Interview skills training for final-year students
• An onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team
• Possible mentorship from senior CSIR professionals

Service Contract

Upon graduation, bursary recipients are expected to enter into a service agreement. This agreement requires them to work for the CSIR and the Sasol Foundation. The duration of this employment commitment is one year for every year of funding received.

Selection Process

Candidates who meet the initial criteria will be shortlisted. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted and invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process. Applicants who do not receive any feedback regarding their application should consider their application unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements for Current Matric Students

Students currently in their final year of Matric must meet the following criteria:

• Must be South African citizens.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must be currently enrolled in Matric.
• Must plan to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree in one of the listed fields in 2027.
• Must intend to register at a public university in South Africa.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 5 for English in Matric.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Mathematics in Matric.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Physical Science in Matric.

Eligibility Requirements for Current University Students

Students currently enrolled at university must meet these requirements:

• Must be South African citizens.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must be studying full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields.
• Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in their university studies.
• Must have successfully passed all registered courses for the completed study period.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following supporting documents:

• A certified copy of your South African ID document.
• Your Grade 11 final results and your latest Matric results, if you are currently in Matric.
• Your latest academic record, if you are currently studying at university.
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Ensure all documents are clear and legible. Missing documents may lead to disqualification.

How to Apply

Applications for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted online. Please follow the link provided below to access the application portal.

Click here to apply for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2027.

Before applying, it is strongly recommended that applicants read the official CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines for 2027. You can access the guidelines document via the provided link. Applicants will need to register an account on the application portal before they can log in and submit their application.

Enquiries

For any questions related to the bursary programme, applicants can contact the CSIR Bursary Programme team.

Telephone: 012 841 2616
Email: [email protected]

Important Notes

Applications for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme close on 15 September 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are urged to submit their applications well before the closing date. Make sure all required supporting documents are uploaded correctly to avoid any issues.

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