The bursary is open to academically qualifying young people and aims to attract and increase the participation of women, black individuals and people with disabilities in science, engineering and technology, specifically in the areas of study mentioned below:

Areas for an Undergraduate Bursary

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

Current Grade 12 learners:

• South African citizen;
• Must intend to enrol full-time for the degree of choice at a South African public university;
• English (Level 5);
• Mathematics (Level 6); and
• Physical Science (Level 6).

Current university students:

• Must be a South African citizen;
• Planning to enrol full-time at a South African university for 2025; and
• Must have passed all registered courses for the completed study period at the university. 

The following documents must accompany your application:

• An updated CV;
• A copy of your certified identity document;
• A copy of your latest academic record; and
• A copy of the Grade 11 final year results (for current Grade 12 learners).

Failure to attach these documents will result in your application being null and void.

This is a comprehensive bursary, and it covers all the costs associated with university studies, such as:

For undergraduates

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Books
• Accommodation
• Living allowances
• Once-off laptop allowance 
   

Academic merit will be considered during the selection process, and it is imperative to increase the participation of women, black individuals and people with disabilities in science, engineering and technology.

CSIR-Sasol Foundation students will also receive additional support through the following initiatives:

• Recognition of top performing students – CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and gifts handed out;
• Possible work placement opportunities at the CSIR and other affiliated organisations;
• Interview skills training offered to final year students in preparation for the world of work;
• Opportunity to work on real-life projects that address socioeconomic challenges through your research (CSIR co-supervision);  
• Onboarding session and an opportunity to meet the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team;
• Psychosocial support (e.g. academic and psychological support);
• Student wellness programme;
• Opportunity to be paired with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme; and
• Vacation work opportunities of up to six (6) weeks per annum.

The call for 2026 applications is now CLOSED!

For more information on the CSIR bursary, please contact the CSIR Bursary Programme team.
Tel: +27(12) 841 2616
Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za