Sasol Foundation Bursaries 2027: Apply for STEM and Non-STEM Funding

The Sasol Foundation is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students. This programme aims to support academically strong and financially needy students pursuing their first undergraduate degree in fields identified as priorities for the country’s future. Applications are open to South African citizens younger than 25 with a household income of R800,000 per year or less.

Application Closing Date: 23 August 2026
Location: Approved public universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: Undergraduate studies
Stipend: Not specified (comprehensive financial support)
Minimum Qualification: Matric or equivalent, with specific subject requirements for STEM fields

About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme is designed to invest in the future of South Africa by supporting students in critical fields. The programme focuses on both Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and specific non-STEM areas. It aims to develop talent that can contribute to key industries and address future skills needs.

This bursary is for students undertaking their first undergraduate qualification on a full-time basis. It prioritizes fields that align with future economic growth, such as the green economy and digitalization. Applicants must meet strict academic and financial criteria to be considered for this valuable opportunity.

About Sasol Foundation

The Sasol Foundation is committed to social investment and community development. It focuses on education and skills development initiatives to empower South Africans. Through programmes like this bursary, the Foundation aims to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute to the nation’s progress and Sasol’s long-term vision.

Sasol is a global integrated chemicals and energy company. Its operations span various sectors, including mining, manufacturing, and energy production. The Foundation’s work is a key part of Sasol’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development in the communities where it operates.

Sasol Bursary Opportunities Available for 2027

The Sasol Foundation offers several bursary streams for the 2027 academic year. Applicants should carefully select the programme that best matches their field of study and personal circumstances.

• Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries
• Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries
• Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme

The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is currently closed for applications.

Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries

These bursaries are specifically for students pursuing qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Priority is given to fields that are crucial for future industries and skills development, particularly those related to the green economy and digitalization. This includes a wide range of engineering disciplines, data science, environmental science, and other future-focused STEM areas.

The programme supports undergraduate studies. Applicants should ensure their chosen qualification is listed on the official bursary portal as eligible for funding. Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted for these bursaries.

Priority STEM Study Areas

Examples of priority study areas include:

• Engineering (various disciplines)
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Environmental Science
• Medical Sciences
• Construction
• Manufacturing

Engineering and Science Degrees Supported

The bursary supports various undergraduate degrees, including:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Statistics

Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg is also supported under specific conditions.

Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries

The non-STEM bursary options are more limited and are intended for specific groups of applicants. These include children of Sasol employees, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and students from Sasol’s fence-line communities. These applicants must still meet all other general eligibility and academic requirements for the bursary.

Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme

A separate bursary programme is available for students from qualifying mining fence-line communities. Applications for this programme are scheduled to open later than the main Sasol Foundation bursaries. This programme is distinct and has its own application period.

Applications for the Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme are expected to open on 24 August 2026 and close on 13 September 2026.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Sasol Foundation bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen by birth.
• Be younger than 25 years old at the time of application.
• Be pursuing their first undergraduate qualification.
• Study or intend to study full-time.
• Meet the academic requirements for their chosen qualification.
• Have a combined annual household income of R800,000 or less.
• Study at an approved South African public university.

First-Year Applicant Requirements

Applicants applying for funding for their first year of university study should:

• Be currently completing Matric or have completed Matric within the year before applying.
• Meet the specific academic entry requirements for their intended university degree.
• Qualify for admission to the chosen university programme.

Current University Student Requirements

Students who are already studying at university and applying for funding for subsequent years must achieve an overall academic average of at least 60%. This applies to students entering their second, third, or fourth year of study. They must also remain academically eligible for their degree programme.

Household Income Requirement

The total annual income from all household earners must not exceed R800,000. Applicants will need to provide documentation to verify their household income. Financial need is a key factor in the selection process.

Engineering Academic Requirements

For BEng and BSc Engineering programmes, applicants generally need:

• Mathematics: 70% to 79%
• Physical Sciences: 70% to 79%
• Appropriate English results

For BEng Tech programmes, the requirements are typically:

• Mathematics: 60% to 69%
• Physical Sciences: 60% to 69%
• Appropriate English results

It is essential to confirm the exact requirements for the specific qualification on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Mathematics Requirements

For the listed Engineering and Science bursaries, Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted. Applicants must ensure their results in standard Mathematics meet the required percentage.

Institution Requirements

Bursaries must be used for study at approved South African public universities. While Universities of Technology are mentioned, funding for their qualifications is generally not provided, with some exceptions like Mine Surveying. Applicants should verify their institution and programme eligibility directly.

Study Options Not Funded

The following study options are generally not funded by this bursary programme:

• UNISA studies
• Diploma qualifications
• Postgraduate studies (under the Foundation programme)
• Hybrid or combined degree programmes
• Certain University of Technology qualifications

What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Covers

The bursary offers comprehensive financial support for undergraduate studies. While specific monetary limits are not detailed in the provided information, it typically covers essential educational expenses.

Successful recipients may receive funding for:

• Tuition fees
• Registration fees
• Accommodation
• Learning materials
• Allowances for other approved educational expenses

Academic and Development Support

Beyond financial aid, successful bursary recipients may also benefit from:

• Academic support programmes.
• Personal and professional development opportunities.
• Exposure to Sasol’s broader development initiatives.
• Potential graduate development opportunities.

The exact support provided will depend on the specific terms of the bursary award.

Selection Process

The selection process involves several stages to identify suitable candidates. This typically includes:

• Online application submission.
• Academic performance screening.
• Verification of eligibility criteria.
• Household income verification.
• Psychometric assessments.
• Interviews (where applicable).
• Final selection of bursary recipients.

Applicants must keep their contact details up-to-date throughout this period.

Psychometric Assessments

As part of the selection process, applicants may be required to complete psychometric assessments. These tests help evaluate a candidate’s aptitude and suitability for the programme. Applicants should follow all instructions carefully and complete these assessments within the given timeframe.

Application Outcome

Applicants can expect to receive notification regarding the outcome of their bursary application by approximately the end of November 2026. Only candidates who successfully navigate all selection stages will be offered a bursary.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:

• Certified copy of South African identity document.
• Latest academic results (e.g., Matric results or current university transcript).
• Proof of university registration (if applicable).
• Proof of permanent residential address.
• Documentation to verify household income.
• Any additional documents requested on the official application portal.

It is important to check the final document checklist on the application portal, as requirements can vary.

How to Apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Applications must be submitted online via the official Sasol bursary portal.

Click here to apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Sasol bursary portal.
2. Select the correct 2027 bursary programme.
3. Register an account or log in if you already have one.
4. Fill in all personal details accurately.
5. Provide correct academic information.
6. Enter your household income details.
7. Upload all necessary certified documents.
8. Complete any required declarations.
9. Review your entire application before submitting.
10. Submit your application before the closing date of 23 August 2026.

Technical Application Support

If you encounter technical issues while completing the online application, you can contact the Sasol bursary call centre for assistance at 086 010 6235.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 is 23 August 2026. Applications are currently open. It is advisable to apply well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical problems or submission errors.

Important Application Conditions

Applicants should be aware of the following key conditions:

• South African citizenship by birth is mandatory.
• Applicants must be under 25 years old.
• Funding is only for the first undergraduate qualification.
• Study must be full-time.
• The household income limit is R800,000 per year.
• Current university students need a minimum 60% average.
• Postgraduate studies and diploma qualifications are not funded.
• UNISA studies are not eligible.
• Psychometric assessments may be part of the selection.
• Verify eligibility for University of Technology programmes.
• Meeting requirements does not guarantee bursary award.

Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, ensure you have:

• Submitted online by 23 August 2026.
• Confirmed you are a South African citizen by birth.
• Confirmed you are younger than 25 years old.
• Confirmed you are pursuing your first undergraduate degree.
• Confirmed you will study full-time.
• Verified your qualification is on the approved funding list.
• Confirmed your university is eligible.
• Verified your household income does not exceed R800,000 annually.
• Checked that you meet the Mathematics and Physical Sciences requirements.
• Gathered your academic records.
• Prepared your identity document.
• Prepared your household income verification documents.
• Prepared your proof of residence if required.
• Ensured your application is complete and accurate.

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