CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursaries 2027: Study Support for Priority Fields

The CSIR and SASOL Foundation are offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to unemployed South African students pursuing studies in priority scientific and engineering fields. This opportunity aims to support students in fields critical to research, technology development, and innovation.

Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (covers registration, tuition, books, accommodation, living allowances, and a laptop)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (for current Matric students) or University academic record (for current university students)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2027

The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme is a collaboration between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the SASOL Foundation. It is designed to assist full-time, unemployed students who are committed to studying in fields identified as priorities by the CSIR. The programme focuses on supporting academic pursuits within research, technology development, innovation, and corporate support areas. This initiative aims to build a pipeline of skilled professionals in critical scientific and engineering disciplines.

About CSIR and SASOL Foundation

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research and development organisation in Africa. It aims to drive innovation and industrial development in South Africa. The SASOL Foundation is committed to advancing education and skills development, particularly in science, engineering, and technology, to address societal needs and foster economic growth. Together, they support students who show potential in fields vital to the nation’s progress.

Fields of Study Covered

Bursaries are available for undergraduate studies in a range of specialized fields. These include:

• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Data Science
• Electronic Engineering
• Genetics / Cell Biology
• Industrial Engineering
• Information Technology
• Material Flow Analysis
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Process Engineering / Life Cycle Assessment
• System Engineering

What the Bursary Covers

Successful applicants will receive financial support for various study-related expenses. The bursary package is designed to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families. It includes coverage for:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Books and study materials
• Accommodation costs
• Living allowances
• A once-off allowance for a laptop

Additional Benefits

Beyond financial support, bursary recipients can benefit from a range of developmental opportunities. These are intended to support their academic journey and prepare them for future careers. Benefits may include:

• Psychosocial and academic support services
• Access to a student wellness programme
• Opportunities for vacation work (up to six weeks annually)
• Involvement in real-life projects addressing societal challenges
• Co-supervision of research projects by CSIR professionals
• Potential work placement opportunities within CSIR and related organizations
• Awards for academic excellence
• Interview skills training for final-year students
• An onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation teams
• Possible mentorship from senior CSIR professionals

Service Contract

Upon graduation, bursary recipients are expected to enter into a service agreement. They will be required to work for CSIR and the Sasol Foundation. The duration of this employment commitment is one year of service for every year of funding received. This ensures that the skills developed through the bursary contribute back to the organizations that supported the students.

Eligibility Requirements

For Current Matric Students:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must be currently in Matric.
• Must plan to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree in one of the listed fields in 2027.
• Must intend to enroll at a public university in South Africa.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 5 for English.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Mathematics.
• Must have achieved a minimum of Level 6 for Physical Science.

For Current University Students:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must be studying full-time towards a qualification in one of the listed fields.
• Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%.
• Must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period at university.

Documents Required

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following documents:

• Certified copy of your South African ID document.
• Grade 11 final results and your latest Matric results (if currently in Matric).
• Your latest academic record (if currently studying at university).
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Ensure all documents are certified and legible. Missing documents may lead to disqualification.

How to Apply

Applications for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted online.

Visit the official application portal at: CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2027

Before applying, it is strongly recommended that applicants read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 (.pdf). You will need to register an account on the application portal to log in and submit your application.

Enquiries

For any questions regarding the bursary programme, you can contact the CS