CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries
CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries 2027
Role Overview
CSIR, in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, invites unemployed South African students to apply for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2027.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, is inviting students to apply for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
The bursary is aimed at full-time, unemployed students who are pursuing qualifications in fields that are regarded as priority areas by the CSIR.
The programme supports studies in areas linked to research, technology development, innovation and corporate support fields.
Bursaries will be awarded for undergraduate studies in the following fields:
Process Engineering / Life Cycle Assessment
The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is merit-based and aims to attract suitably qualified applicants.
The programme encourages applications from:
Students living with disabilities
Full-time unemployed students pursuing priority qualifications
The bursary will provide cover for the following expenses:
Successful bursary recipients may also receive the following benefits:
Vacation work opportunities of up to 6 weeks per year
Opportunity to work on real-life projects addressing socioeconomic challenges
CSIR co-supervision through research projects
Potential work placement opportunities at CSIR and related organisations
Awards for top-performing students
CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and other gifts
Interview skills training for final-year students
Onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team
Possible mentorship by senior CSIR professionals
After graduation, bursary recipients will be required to work for CSIR and the Sasol Foundation.
The service obligation is one year of employment for every year of funding received.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to attend an interview.
Applicants who do not receive feedback should regard their bursary application as unsuccessful.
Current Matric learners must meet the following requirements:
Must intend to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree qualification in one of the listed fields in 2027
Must intend to enrol at a public university in South Africa
Must have achieved a minimum of Level 5 for English
Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Mathematics
Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Physical Science
Current university students must meet the following requirements:
Must be studying full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields
Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%
Must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period at university
Applicants must submit clear copies of the following supporting documents:
Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results, if currently in Matric
Latest academic record, if currently studying
Missing documents may result in disqualification.
Applications must be submitted online at: CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2027
Applicants must read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 (.pdf) before applying.
Applicants must register an account before they can log in and apply.
Applicants are encouraged to read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 before submitting their applications.
For bursary-related queries, applicants may contact the CSIR Bursary Programme team.
Telephone: 012 841 2616Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za
Applications close on 15 September 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Applicants should apply before the closing date and ensure that all required supporting documents are uploaded correctly.
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• Current Matric learners must meet the following requirements:
• Must be South African citizens
• Must be unemployed
• Must be currently in Matric
• Must intend to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree qualification in one of the listed fields in 2027
• Must intend to enrol at a public university in South Africa
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 5 for English
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Mathematics
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Physical Science
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is merit-based and aims to attract suitably qualified applicants. The programme encourages applications from: Female students Black students Students living with disabilities Full-time unemployed students pursuing priority qualifications
Email application: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za
About CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries
This bursary is offered by CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 15 September 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Yes, this opportunity requires a matric certificate.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 15 September 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
Similar Opportunities
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