Hey future innovators! Ready to kickstart your career in science or engineering but worried about funding? Good news! The incredible CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme for 2026 is here to make your dreams a reality. This isn’t just any bursary; it’s your ticket to a fully-funded undergraduate degree in priority fields, brought to you by two powerhouses: the CSIR and the Sasol Foundation. Let’s dive in and see if this is your perfect opportunity!
The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme is a fantastic opportunity for full-time, unemployed South African students looking to pursue undergraduate studies in crucial science, engineering, and technology fields. It’s designed to provide comprehensive financial support, helping you focus on your studies without the stress of university costs. This initiative by the CSIR, in partnership with the Sasol Foundation, specifically aims to increase participation from women, black individuals, and people with disabilities in these vital sectors.
Who Can Apply?
Wondering if you qualify for this awesome bursary? Here’s who the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is looking for:
For Current Grade 12 Learners:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to be planning to enroll full-time for a degree at a public South African university.
- Achieved a Level 5 (60-69%) in English in Grade 11.
- Achieved a Level 6 (70-79%) in Mathematics in Grade 11.
- Achieved a Level 6 (70-79%) in Physical Science in Grade 11.
For Current University Students:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to be planning to enroll full-time at a South African university for the 2026 academic year.
- You must have passed ALL your registered courses for the completed study period at university. Yes, all of them!
The bursary also places a strong emphasis on attracting and increasing the participation of women, black individuals, and people with disabilities in science, engineering, and technology fields. Academic merit is always a key consideration!
Here are the specific fields of study they are looking to fund:
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Material Flow Analysis
- Process Engineering/Life Cycle Assessment
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Industrial Engineering
- Genetics/Cell Biology
- System Engineering
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just a partial bursary – the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is super comprehensive, covering practically everything you need for your university studies! It’s designed to let you focus on your academics without financial worries.
For undergraduates, it covers:
- Registration fees: Sorted!
- Tuition fees: Your study costs are covered.
- Books: All your essential textbooks and learning materials.
- Accommodation: Your place to stay while studying.
- Living allowances: For your day-to-day expenses.
- Once-off laptop allowance: Get the tech you need to excel!
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Applying for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is straightforward, but pay close attention to the details. Make sure you have the following documents ready to go, as incomplete applications will, unfortunately, be dismissed:
- An updated and professional CV (Curriculum Vitae).
- A certified copy of your South African Identity Document (ID).
- A certified copy of your latest academic record (for university students).
- A certified copy of your Grade 11 final year results (for current Grade 12 learners).
Once you have all these documents prepared, click on the official link below to submit your application directly on the CSIR website:
Visit the Official CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Webpage to Apply!
Remember, the application deadline is 29 August 2025. Don’t miss this incredible chance!
So, if you’re a bright, aspiring South African ready to make a difference in science or engineering, and this sounds like your dream opportunity, don’t wait! The deadline is 29 August 2025. Head over to the official CSIR website to apply now and kickstart your future. And while you’re at it, keep exploring Bursaries Room for more amazing funding opportunities!