Sasol Foundation Bursaries 2027: Apply for STEM and Non-STEM Funding

The Sasol Foundation is offering bursaries for South African students looking to pursue their first undergraduate qualification in 2027. This opportunity is for academically capable and financially deserving students in priority fields. Applications open on 1 August 2026 and close on 23 August 2026.

Application Closing Date: 23 August 2026
Location: Approved public universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: First undergraduate qualification
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Varies by field of study (Matric or higher)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme aims to support students who show academic promise but need financial assistance to further their studies. It focuses on developing talent in fields that are important for South Africa’s future. The programme is designed for full-time undergraduate studies at approved South African public universities.

This bursary is specifically for students pursuing their first undergraduate degree. It covers a range of study areas, with a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The goal is to build a pipeline of skilled professionals for key industries.

About Sasol

Sasol is a global integrated chemicals and energy company. It is involved in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of a wide range of products. Sasol operates in various countries, with a significant presence in South Africa, where it plays a vital role in the economy. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability.

Sasol Bursary Opportunities Available for 2027

The Sasol Foundation offers several bursary streams for the 2027 academic year. These include the Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries, Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries, and the Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme. The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is currently closed for applications. Applicants should choose the programme that best fits their field of study and personal circumstances.

Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries

The STEM bursary programme is designed to support students pursuing qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Priority is given to fields related to the Green Economy and Digitalisation, reflecting future industry needs. This includes areas like engineering, IT, data science, and environmental science. Postgraduate studies are not covered under this specific bursary information for 2027.

Priority STEM Study Areas

Examples of priority study areas include:

• Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Mining, Metallurgical)
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Statistics
• Operations Research
• Environmental Science
• Medical Sciences
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Agricultural Science

Applicants should check the official Sasol bursary portal for the most up-to-date list of accepted qualifications.

Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries

The Non-STEM bursaries have more specific eligibility criteria. These bursaries are generally for applicants who are children of Sasol employees, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, or students from Sasol’s fence-line communities. Applicants must still meet the general eligibility and academic requirements of the bursary programme. Postgraduate studies are not funded under this programme.

Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme

A separate Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme is also available for students from communities located near Sasol’s mining operations. Applications for this programme are scheduled to open on 24 August 2026 and close on 13 September 2026. This is a distinct application period from the main Sasol Foundation bursary.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Sasol Foundation bursary, applicants must meet the following 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 full-time.
• Meet the academic requirements for their chosen field.
• Have a combined annual household income of R800,000 or less.
• Study at an institution and in a qualification approved by the bursary programme.

First-Year Applicant Requirements

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

• Be currently in their final year of Matric or have completed Matric within the year before applying.
• Meet the academic entry requirements for their intended university degree.
• Qualify for admission to the chosen 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%. This applies to students seeking support for their second, third, or fourth year of undergraduate study. They must also remain academically eligible for their degree programme.

Household Income Requirement

The total annual household income for applicants must not exceed R800,000. Applicants will need to provide documentation to verify their household income. Financial need is a key factor in the selection process.

Engineering Academic Requirements

For BEng and BSc Engineering programmes, applicants generally need:

• Mathematics: 70% to 79%
• Physical Sciences: 70% to 79%
• Appropriate English results

For BEng Tech programmes, the requirements are typically:

• Mathematics: 60% to 69%
• Physical Sciences: 60% to 69%
• Appropriate English results

It is essential to confirm the exact requirements for your specific qualification on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Mathematics Requirements

For the listed Engineering and Science bursaries, Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted. Applicants must ensure their Matric results include the required Mathematics subject.

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 cases like Mine Surveying. Applicants should verify their institution and programme eligibility on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Study Options Not Funded

The Sasol Foundation bursary programme does not fund the following:

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

Applicants must confirm that their chosen qualification is eligible before applying.

What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Covers

The bursary offers comprehensive financial support. While specific monetary limits are not detailed in the provided information, it typically covers tuition, registration, accommodation, learning materials, and allowances. Successful applicants should check the official award conditions for a full breakdown of what is included.

Academic and Development Support

Successful bursary recipients may also benefit from academic support, development opportunities, and exposure to Sasol’s graduate development programmes. These initiatives are designed to help students succeed in their studies and prepare for future careers. The exact support offered will depend on the specific bursary terms.

Selection Process

The selection process typically involves several stages:

• Online application submission.
• Academic screening based on results.
• Eligibility verification.
• Household income verification.
• Psychometric assessments.
• Interviews, if required.
• Final selection.

Applicants should keep their contact details updated throughout the selection period.

Psychometric Assessments

Psychometric assessments are part of the selection process. Candidates invited to this stage must follow all instructions and complete the assessments on time. Successfully completing these assessments does not guarantee bursary funding.

Application Outcome

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

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• South African identity document.
• Latest academic results (Matric certificate or current university transcript).
• Proof of university registration (if applicable).
• Proof of permanent residential address.
• Household income documentation for all earners.
• Any additional documents requested on the application portal.

Refer to the official online checklist for the most accurate 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:

1. Visit the official Sasol bursary portal.
2. Select the appropriate 2027 bursary programme.
3. Register an account or log in.
4. Fill in all personal details accurately.
5. Provide correct academic information.
6. Enter household income details.
7. Upload all required documents.
8. Complete any necessary declarations.
9. Review the entire application before submitting.
10. Submit the application before the closing date of 23 August 2026.

Technical Application Support

For technical assistance with the online application process, applicants can contact the Sasol bursary call centre at: 086 010 6235.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The closing date for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 applications is 23 August 2026. Applications are currently open. It is advisable to apply well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Important Application Conditions

Applicants should be aware of the following conditions:

• South African citizenship by birth is mandatory.
• Applicants must be under 25 years old.
• Funding is for the first undergraduate qualification only.
• Full-time study is required.
• The household income limit is R800,000 per year.
• Current university students need at least a 60% average.
• Postgraduate studies and diplomas are not funded.
• 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 on the approved funding list.
• Verified your university is eligible.
• Confirmed your household income does not exceed R800,000 per year.
• Met the Mathematics and Physical Sciences requirements if applicable.
• Gathered your academic records.
• Prepared your identity document.
• Prepared your household income documents.
• Prepared your proof of residence if required.
• Ensured your application is complete.

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