CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2027 for STEM

About the Bursary

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in partnership with the SASOL Foundation, is proud to announce the availability of their prestigious bursary programme for the 2027 academic year. This merit-based initiative is designed to support full-time, unemployed students who are pursuing critical qualifications in fields identified as priorities by the CSIR, including research, technology development, innovation, and essential corporate/support areas. The programme actively seeks to nurture talent within South Africa, with a particular emphasis on encouraging applications from females, Black students, and individuals living with disabilities, thereby fostering a more diverse and inclusive scientific and industrial landscape.

This bursary represents a significant opportunity for aspiring students to gain financial support and invaluable experience within leading South African research and development organisations. By investing in the education of promising individuals, the CSIR and SASOL Foundation aim to build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute to the nation's technological advancement and economic growth. The programme is committed to identifying and empowering students who demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for innovation.

What the Bursary Covers

• Registration fees

• Tuition fees

• Books and study materials

• Accommodation costs

• Living allowances

• A once-off laptop allowance

• Psychosocial support, including academic and psychological counselling

• Access to a student wellness programme

• Paid vacation work opportunities (up to 6 weeks per annum)

• The chance to work on real-life projects addressing socioeconomic challenges under CSIR co-supervision

• Potential work placement opportunities at the CSIR and other related organisations

• Awards for top-performing students, including CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates, and other gifts

• Interview skills training for final-year students

• An onboarding session to meet the CSIR and Sasol Foundation teams

• Possible pairing with senior CSIR professionals through a dedicated mentorship programme

Who Should Apply

This bursary is specifically targeted at South African citizens who are currently unemployed and are pursuing or intend to pursue full-time undergraduate studies in 2027 within the priority fields identified by the CSIR. Applicants can be either current Matric students with strong academic potential or current university students who have demonstrated consistent academic achievement. Specific academic requirements include a minimum of Level 5 for English, Level 6 for Mathematics, and Level 6 for Physical Science in Matric for current Matric students. For current university students, a minimum overall average of 65% and the successful completion of all registered courses in the previous study period are required. The programme actively encourages applications from individuals who identify as female, Black, or living with a disability, aligning with the CSIR's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Why This Bursary Stands Out

The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary is distinguished by its comprehensive support system, extending beyond mere financial aid. It offers a holistic development experience that includes crucial psychosocial support, student wellness programmes, and invaluable vacation work opportunities, allowing students to gain practical, hands-on experience. The unique chance to work on real-world projects that tackle socioeconomic challenges, coupled with potential work placements and mentorship from senior professionals, provides a significant advantage for career development. Furthermore, the recognition through CSIR Excellence Awards and dedicated interview skills training equips students with the necessary tools for a successful transition into the professional world, making this a highly sought-after opportunity for aspiring scientists and engineers.

How to Apply

Required Documents

Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your online application:

• ID document (certified copy)

• Grade 11 final year results and Matric latest results, if currently in Matric

• Latest academic record, if currently studying

• Updated Curriculum Vitae

Applications must be submitted online at: CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2027

Applicants must read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 (.pdf) before applying.

Applicants must Register an account, before they can Login and apply.

• Must be a South African citizen

• Must be unemployed

• Current Matric students must intend on studying full-time towards an undergraduate degree qualification in a priority field in 2027 and enrolling at a public university in South Africa.

• Current Matric students must achieve a minimum of Level 5 for English, Level 6 for Mathematics, and Level 6 for Physical Science in Matric.

• Current University students must be studying full-time towards a qualification in a priority field.

• Current University students must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%.

• Current University students must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period.

• Preference will be given to females, Black students, and those living with disabilities.