Amazon Software Development Engineer Bursary 2026 – Closing Date: 30 September 2025 Apply Now!

Hey future tech superstars! 👋 Ready to code your way to an incredible career and get your studies funded by one of the biggest names in the world? We’re talking about the **Amazon Software Development Engineer (SDE) Recruitment Bursary** for 2026! If you’re passionate about tech and dream of working at Amazon, this could be your golden ticket.

This isn’t just any bursary; it’s your chance to kickstart an amazing journey with Amazon, the global giant in e-commerce, cloud computing, and AI! Launched by the Amazon Development Centre in 2018, this program is designed to support talented South African students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who are pursuing degrees in critical tech fields. Beyond financial aid, this bursary offers a unique pathway to becoming a Software Development Engineer (SDE) at Amazon – pretty cool, right?

Who Can Apply?

To be considered for this awesome opportunity, you need to meet a few key requirements:

You must be a South African citizen.
You need to have completed your Matric.
You must be currently studying towards an undergraduate degree in one of these fields:

Artificial Intelligence
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Data Science
Information Systems
Information Technology
Machine Learning
Software Engineering

You must be entering your final year of a 3-year degree OR the third year of a 4-year degree in 2026.
You must commit to continuing your studies towards an Honours degree after completing the Amazon internship.
You should plan to complete your studies (up to Honours level or NQF level 8) by the end of 2027.
You must be available to start full-time permanent employment with Amazon in January 2028, if you receive a job offer after your internship assessment.
You need to have achieved and maintained a minimum overall academic average of 65%.
You must be studying at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa.
You must be genuinely interested in software development engineering and keen to pursue a career at Amazon.
You must be willing to join the Amazon paid internship programme during your summer vacation.
You must be willing to participate in training opportunities at Amazon.

What Does It Cover?

This bursary aims to ease your financial burden so you can focus on your studies. It provides cover for the following expenses, up to a capped amount:

Tuition fees
Stationery
Books
A personal computer
Accommodation (either in residence or private accommodation)
Transport
General living expenses

But wait, there’s more! Bursary recipients also get to participate in a **paid internship programme** during the summer vacation. This isn’t just a job; it’s a chance for Amazon to see your skills in action and assess you for a potential full-time Software Development Engineer (SDE) role after you graduate! You’ll get to work on impactful projects, learn from experienced Amazonians, expand your network, and access training and social events for your personal and professional growth.

There’s also a service contract involved: if a position is available, you may be required to work for Amazon after graduation for a period equal to the duration of the funding you received.

How to Apply?

Ready to make your move? Here’s how to apply:

Applications must be submitted online. Click here to begin your application: Amazon Bursary Application 2026

Make sure to read the StudyTrust bursary instructions page before you start your application. It has crucial information!

You’ll need to submit clear, certified copies of the following supporting documents along with your online application. Don’t skip any, or your application might not be considered!

Your South African ID document
Your Matric certificate
Your full academic record/transcripts
Your parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips or letter from employer if employed, latest financial statements if self-employed, affidavit if unemployed)
Your parents’ or guardians’ death certificates, if deceased
Your parents’ or guardians’ divorce certificate, if divorced
Your parents’ or guardians’ sworn statement, if separated
A clear profile picture (head and shoulders)
Proof of address

Remember, applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, so the sooner you apply, the better! Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by StudyTrust and will need to undergo an additional assessment with Amazon.

If this sounds like the right bursary for you, don’t wait – apply now and explore more bursaries on Bursaries Room!