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 important for future industries. Applications are open to South African citizens younger than 25 with a household income of R800,000 or less per year.

Application Closing Date: 23 August 2026
Location: Approved public universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (comprehensive financial support)
Minimum Qualification: Not specified (depends on chosen qualification)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme supports students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification in fields identified as priorities for future industries and skills. This includes areas like the Green Economy and Digitalisation, with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The programme is designed to assist students who demonstrate academic potential but face financial challenges.

The bursary aims to develop talent in critical sectors, ensuring a pipeline of skilled individuals for South Africa’s evolving economy. While STEM fields are a primary focus, there are also limited opportunities for non-STEM studies, typically for children of Sasol employees, shareholders, or those from specific community backgrounds. The bursary provides comprehensive financial support for approved study fields and institutions.

About Sasol

Sasol is a global integrated chemicals and energy company. It is involved in the development and commercialisation of technologies, as well as the marketing of its diverse range of products. Sasol operates in various countries and is committed to driving innovation and sustainability within the energy and chemical sectors. The company plays a significant role in the South African economy through its operations and community development initiatives.

Sasol Bursary Opportunities Available for 2027

The Sasol Foundation offers several bursary streams for the 2027 academic year. Applicants should choose the programme that best fits 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 align with future industry needs, such as the Green Economy and Digitalisation. This includes a wide range of engineering disciplines, IT, data science, environmental science, and other future-focused STEM areas. Postgraduate studies are not covered under this specific bursary information for 2027.

Priority STEM Study Areas

The bursary programme supports a variety of STEM fields. Examples of priority study areas include:

• Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Mining, Metallurgical)
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Environmental Science
• Medical Sciences
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Other future-focused STEM disciplines

Applicants should check the official bursary portal for the most current list of accepted qualifications.

Engineering and Science Degrees

Undergraduate qualifications supported include degrees like Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering. Science degrees in Chemistry, Geology, Data Science, Computer Science, and Statistics are also eligible. Specific programmes like Mining Engineering and Metallurgical Engineering are supported, along with Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg under certain conditions.

Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries

The Non-STEM bursary options are more limited. These are generally available to specific groups, including children of Sasol employees, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and students from Sasol’s fence-line communities. Applicants must still meet the general eligibility and academic requirements for the bursary. Postgraduate studies are not funded under this programme.

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, from 24 August 2026 to 13 September 2026. This is distinct from the main Sasol Foundation application period.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Sasol Foundation bursary, applicants must meet several 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 institution and in a qualification accepted by the bursary programme.

First-Year Applicant Requirements

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

• Be currently completing Matric or have completed it within the year before applying.
• Meet the academic entry requirements for their intended university degree.
• Qualify for admission to the university programme.
• Have their most recent academic results ready for submission.

Current University Student Requirements

Students already enrolled at university and applying for funding for subsequent years must maintain a strong academic record. They need an overall academic average of at least 60% to be considered for funding for their second, third, or fourth year of study. Continued eligibility for their degree programme is also essential.

Household Income Requirement

A key criterion for the bursary is financial need. The combined annual household income of the applicant’s family or guardians must not exceed R800,000. Applicants will need to provide documentation to verify their household income as part of the financial assessment.

Engineering Academic Requirements

For Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) and BSc Engineering programmes, applicants typically need strong results in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. For BEng Tech programmes, slightly lower, but still strong, percentages in these subjects are generally required. Applicants must confirm the exact subject requirements for their specific qualification on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Mathematics Requirements

It is important to note that Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted for the listed Engineering and Science bursaries. Applicants must ensure their school results include the standard Mathematics subject at the required level for their intended qualification.

Institution Requirements

The bursary is intended for students studying at approved South African public universities. While Universities of Technology are mentioned, funding for their programmes may be limited, except for specific exceptions like Mine Surveying. Applicants planning to study at a University of Technology should verify their programme’s eligibility directly on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Study Options Not Funded

Certain study options and institutions are not covered by this bursary programme. These include:

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

Applicants should confirm that their chosen qualification and institution are eligible before applying.

What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Covers

The bursary offers comprehensive financial support, though specific monetary limits and exact components are not detailed in the provided information. Successful applicants can expect funding for educational expenses. Applicants should consult the official award conditions for details on what is covered, which may include tuition, registration, accommodation, learning materials, and allowances.

Academic and Development Support

Beyond financial aid, successful bursary recipients may benefit from additional support. This can include academic assistance, personal development opportunities, and exposure to Sasol’s broader development programmes. These initiatives are designed to support students throughout their academic journey and prepare them for future careers.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme involves several stages. These typically include an initial online application, academic screening, eligibility verification, and household income assessment. Psychometric assessments and interviews may also be part of the process. Applicants must ensure their contact details are up to date throughout the selection period.

Psychometric Assessments

Psychometric assessments are a standard part of the selection process. Applicants who reach this stage will receive instructions from Sasol. Completing these assessments is a required step, but it does not guarantee that a bursary will be awarded.

Application Outcome

Applicants can expect to receive notification regarding the outcome of their bursary application around the end of November 2026. Only those who successfully navigate all required selection stages will be offered bursary funding.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:

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

Applicants should refer to the official portal’s checklist for the most accurate and up-to-date document requirements.

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 appropriate 2027 bursary programme.
3. Register an account or log in if you already have one.
4. Fill in all required personal details accurately.
5. Provide correct academic information.
6. Enter your household income details.
7. Upload all necessary documents as certified copies where required.
8. Complete any required declarations.
9. Review your entire application for accuracy.
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. The number for technical support is 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 must be aware of the following conditions:

• South African citizenship by birth is mandatory.
• Applicants must be under 25 years of age.
• Funding is for the first undergraduate qualification only.
• Study must be full-time.
• The household income limit is R800,000 per year.
• Current university students need at least a 60% average.
• Postgraduate studies and diploma qualifications are not funded under this programme.
• UNISA studies are not eligible.
• Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee funding.

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 in an approved funding field.
• Verified your chosen university is eligible.
• Confirmed your household income does not exceed R800,000 per year.
• Met the Mathematics and Physical Sciences requirements if applicable.
• Prepared your academic records.
• Prepared your identity document.
• Prepared your household income documents.
• Prepared proof of residence if required.
• Ensured your application is complete and accurate.

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