The CSIR–Sasol Foundation Bursary provides full financial support to unemployed, full-time South African students studying in priority science, engineering, and technology fields.
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The bursary is aimed at building scarce skills in South Africa and increasing the participation of women, black students, and students with disabilities in high-impact STEM careers.
CSIR–Sasol Foundation Bursary
The bursary is offered through a partnership between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Sasol Foundation.
It supports undergraduate and postgraduate students whose studies align with CSIR’s priority research and development areas.
The bursary is awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and alignment with national skills priorities.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary is available for the following undergraduate qualifications:
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Industrial Engineering
- Systems Engineering
- Material Flow Analysis
- Process Engineering / Life Cycle Assessment
- Genetics / Cell Biology
Only applications in these fields will be considered.
Eligibility Requirements
For Grade 12 Learners
You must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Intend to study full-time at a public South African university
- Have the following minimum results:
- English: Level 5
- Mathematics: Level 6
- Physical Science: Level 6
For Current University Students
You must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be studying or planning to study full-time at a public South African university
- Have passed all registered modules for your current or previous academic year
Documents Required
Your application must include:
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Your latest academic transcript
- Grade 11 final results (if you are currently in Grade 12)
- An updated CV
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
What the Bursary Covers
The CSIR–Sasol Foundation Bursary is a full-cost bursary.
It covers:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed books
- Accommodation
- Monthly living allowance
- Once-off laptop allowance
All funding is paid directly towards your study-related costs.
Additional Benefits
Bursary recipients also receive:
- Access to CSIR Excellence Awards and academic recognition
- Work placement opportunities at CSIR and partner organisations
- Interview and employability skills training
- Participation in real-life research projects addressing social and economic challenges
- Psychosocial and academic support
- Access to student wellness programmes
- Mentorship by senior CSIR professionals
- Vacation work opportunities of up to six weeks per year
Work-Back Obligation
Students are required to work back one year for every year funded by the bursary.
This work-back period is usually completed at CSIR or an affiliated organisation.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the official CSIR or Sasol Foundation bursary platforms when applications open. https://bursaryconnect.csir.co.za/apex/r/apexbursar/csir-bursary-portal/login?session=12704856885680
You should:
- Prepare all required documents
- Ensure you meet the academic and citizenship requirements
- Submit your application before the closing date
Late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Important Notes
- Preference is given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
- Women and students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
- Academic performance is a key selection factor
🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist
Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.
📥 Download Checklist (PDF)