Engineering is one of the most important fields for South Africa’s infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, mining, technology and transport sectors. For students who want to study engineering but are concerned about university costs, a bursary can provide valuable financial support while also creating opportunities for mentorship, practical experience and future employment.
There are bursaries available for civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, mining engineering, industrial engineering, electronic engineering, computer engineering, metallurgical engineering and other technical fields.
For the 2027 academic year, several major organisations have already announced bursary opportunities, while others operate recurring programmes that students should monitor for the next application cycle.
This guide highlights some of the strongest engineering bursary opportunities for South African students, what they typically support, who should consider them and what applicants should look for before applying.
What Is an Engineering Bursary?
An engineering bursary is financial assistance provided to students who are studying or intend to study an engineering-related qualification.
Depending on the sponsor, a bursary may help pay for:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books and study materials
- Living expenses
- Allowances
- Practical training
- Mentorship
- Vacation work
The exact package differs from one organisation to another.
Some engineering bursaries are primarily academic funding programmes, while others are designed as talent-development programmes where the sponsor hopes to develop students into future employees.
For example, Transnet describes its full-time bursary recipients as potential future employees, subject to vacancies after successful completion of their qualifications. Its technical bursaries include engineering disciplines such as electrical, electronic, mechanical, civil, chemical, industrial and electro-mechanical engineering.
Which Engineering Fields Are Covered by Bursaries?
Engineering bursary opportunities are available across many specialisations.
Common fields include:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Mining and Mine Planning
- Instrumentation and Control
However, not every bursary covers every engineering field.
Before applying, compare your qualification with the exact list of fields provided by the bursary sponsor.
Best Engineering Bursaries to Consider for 2027
The following programmes are particularly relevant to students interested in engineering and related STEM fields.
CSIR Bursary Programme 2027
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) operates one of the major STEM-focused bursary programmes in South Africa.
The CSIR’s 2027 bursary programme is currently open, with applications closing on 15 September 2026. The programme supports full-time, unemployed students pursuing qualifications in priority areas identified by CSIR.
Engineering disciplines listed for the undergraduate bursary include:
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
The programme also lists areas such as information technology, geology and oceanography.
This makes CSIR particularly interesting for students who want to combine engineering with scientific research and technology.
Who should consider the CSIR bursary?
The opportunity is particularly relevant to academically strong students interested in science, engineering and technology.
The CSIR also aims to increase participation by women, black South Africans and people with disabilities in science, engineering and technology fields.
Why the CSIR bursary is worth considering
The CSIR is a national science council, so students interested in research, innovation and technical careers may find the programme particularly relevant.
Applicants should carefully read the latest programme guidelines before applying because eligibility and academic requirements vary according to study level and field.
Sasol Bursary Programme 2027
The Sasol Bursary Programme is another major opportunity for students interested in engineering and science.
Sasol’s official student information explains that its bursary programme is a talent-development programme for South African citizens, and that many of its bursaries are awarded in engineering, science and commerce because of the company’s business requirements.
For the 2027 academic year, Sasol opened applications for full-time undergraduate studies in several engineering disciplines.
The 2027 fields include:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Mine Surveying
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Data Science
The Mine Surveying opportunity is specifically associated with the University of Johannesburg.
What makes the Sasol bursary different?
Sasol describes its bursary programme as providing both financial and developmental support throughout the study period.
That means students should consider more than just the financial value when evaluating the opportunity.
A bursary connected to an employer can potentially provide exposure to the industry, professional networks and graduate opportunities.
Sasol’s 2027 programme also connects bursary support with its broader graduate development pipeline.
Who should consider Sasol?
Students interested in:
- Chemical engineering
- Mining
- Mechanical engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Metallurgy
- Related science fields
should pay particular attention to Sasol’s bursary programme.
Zutari Engineering Bursary 2027
Zutari is an engineering and infrastructure consulting company that offers an engineering bursary programme for South African students.
According to Zutari’s official careers information, applications for its current engineering bursary programme are open until 31 August 2026. The programme provides full academic funding and holistic support for students studying:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
Zutari lists different minimum academic requirements depending on the student’s year of study.
For Grade 12 applicants, the company lists a minimum 70% overall academic average, with Level 7 in Mathematics and Physical Science.
For university students, the listed minimum overall averages are:
- First year: 65%
- Second year: 70%
- Third year: 70%
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a panel interview, with final selection based on academic merit, financial need and interview performance.
Why students should consider Zutari
Zutari’s programme is particularly relevant to students interested in consulting engineering and infrastructure.
The company also operates vacation-work, work-integrated learning, internship and graduate programmes, creating a broader development pathway around its early-career programmes.
Schneider Electric 2027 External Bursary
Schneider Electric has advertised a 2027 External Bursary for students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and automation.
The programme is aimed at full-time undergraduate students in their first, second or third year of study in 2027 at accredited South African tertiary institutions.
The programme requirements include South African citizenship by birth and provisional acceptance at an accredited South African university.
For current matric learners, Schneider Electric lists specific academic requirements, including:
- At least 70% in Mathematics
- At least 70% in Physics
- At least 60% in English
Based on the June 2026 results.
Which students could benefit from this bursary?
This programme may be particularly suitable for students interested in:
- Electrical engineering
- Automation
- Technology
- STEM
- Industrial systems
- Energy technology
Students should check the current vacancy and bursary listing for the full qualification list before applying.
Transnet Engineering Bursary
Transnet operates a technical bursary programme that supports students pursuing engineering and other technical qualifications.
Its listed technical fields include:
- Industrial Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy
- Computer Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electro-mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Chemical Engineering
Transnet says its comprehensive bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Book allowance
- Experiential training
The organisation also has an Engineering-in-Training programme for Transnet bursary graduates who have completed engineering qualifications. The programme is designed to provide structured training and lasts 24 months.
What should applicants know about Transnet?
Transnet’s bursary has a work-back condition.
The organisation states that students are required to render one year’s service for every year of financial aid received after obtaining their qualification.
This is an important condition to understand before accepting the bursary.
A student should never accept a bursary simply because it offers comprehensive funding without reading the contractual obligations.
Eskom Engineering Bursary
Eskom has a long-running bursary programme aimed at developing young South Africans in fields relevant to the electricity and energy sector.
In February 2026, Eskom announced that it had awarded 200 bursaries for the 2026 financial year, with the programme supporting future engineers, scientists and innovators. Eskom said it had awarded more than 11,000 bursaries during the previous decade.
Eskom’s careers website currently lists bursaries among its opportunities for young professionals and describes them as financial support for talented students pursuing their studies.
Why Eskom is relevant to engineering students
Engineering plays a major role in Eskom’s operations.
Students interested in areas connected with:
- Electrical systems
- Energy
- Engineering
- Science
- Technology
- Infrastructure
should monitor Eskom’s official careers and bursary information.
Because bursary openings and requirements can change from one academic cycle to another, students should not assume that a previous year’s deadline or eligibility criteria will automatically apply to 2027.
Exxaro Bursary Programme
Exxaro offers bursaries as part of its broader student and talent-development activities.
Its student hub explains that the company selects talented community members to study at tertiary institutions and prepares them for careers in its industry. Exxaro says its training and development activities are particularly focused on engineering and mining disciplines.
Historical Exxaro bursary information has included engineering disciplines such as:
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Civil Engineering
as well as mine surveying and geology.
Who should monitor Exxaro?
Students from communities connected to Exxaro’s operations may find this opportunity particularly relevant.
Exxaro states that many of its employees are sourced from host communities and that its student development initiatives include bursaries, internships and learnerships.
Because the programme can be connected to community and business needs, applicants should always check the latest eligibility requirements when a new application window opens.
MISA Technical Bursary
The Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) provides a technical bursary scheme aimed at developing professionals who can contribute to infrastructure planning, delivery, operations and maintenance in municipalities.
MISA’s bursary programme targets South African students who are studying or intend to study technical professions in the built environment.
Its recent bursary information has included:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Project and Construction Management
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Environmental Management
MISA also states that its bursary support can cover tuition, books, accommodation and a monthly allowance.
Why MISA is different
MISA is particularly relevant to students interested in public infrastructure and municipal development.
If you want to build a career around roads, municipal infrastructure, electricity, planning, construction or related public-sector technical work, MISA is worth monitoring.
Siemens Engineering and Technology Bursary
Siemens has also offered bursary opportunities aimed at engineering and technology students in South Africa.
The 2027 programme is aimed at developing future talent in engineering and technology fields.
Students interested in this type of opportunity should verify the latest programme listing, eligibility criteria and application deadline through Siemens’ official recruitment channels before applying.
The opportunity is particularly relevant to learners interested in areas such as:
- Engineering
- Automation
- Electrification
- Digitalisation
- Industrial technology
The engineering sector is increasingly connected with digital systems, automation and smart infrastructure, so students should consider technology-focused bursaries alongside traditional engineering funding.
Toyota South Africa Bursary Opportunities
Toyota South Africa is another organisation worth monitoring for students interested in engineering and technology.
Toyota’s graduate programmes currently include engineering among the fields covered by its structured development opportunities.
Its broader talent pipeline makes the organisation relevant to students interested in:
- Mechanical engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Mechatronics
- Manufacturing
- Automotive technology
Applicants should distinguish between Toyota’s bursary opportunities and graduate programmes because they are intended for different stages of a student’s academic or professional journey.
Which Engineering Bursary Is Best for You?
There is no single engineering bursary that is best for every student.
The right opportunity depends on your:
- Engineering field
- Academic results
- Year of study
- Financial circumstances
- University
- Location
- Career interests
- Work-back preferences
- Long-term career plans
For example, a student studying civil engineering may find Zutari or MISA particularly relevant, while a student interested in chemical engineering may find Sasol more closely aligned with their field.
An electrical engineering student may want to compare opportunities from Eskom, Transnet, Schneider Electric, MISA and other technical organisations.
Best Bursaries for Civil Engineering Students
Civil engineering students have several potential funding routes.
Some of the programmes worth monitoring include:
Zutari: Supports civil and electrical engineering students and provides full academic funding under its current engineering bursary programme.
MISA: Supports civil engineering as part of its technical bursary programme and focuses on developing built-environment capacity for municipalities.
CSIR: Lists civil engineering among its undergraduate priority fields.
Transnet: Includes civil engineering among its technical bursary fields.
Students should compare the academic requirements and funding conditions before deciding which opportunities to pursue.
Best Bursaries for Mechanical Engineering Students
Mechanical engineering is supported by several major programmes.
Students can consider opportunities such as:
- Sasol
- CSIR
- Transnet
- Eskom
- Exxaro
- Other manufacturing and industrial companies
Sasol’s 2027 programme specifically lists mechanical engineering as an eligible field.
CSIR also lists mechanical engineering among its undergraduate bursary areas.
Transnet’s technical bursary programme also includes mechanical engineering.
Best Bursaries for Electrical Engineering Students
Electrical engineering students have access to opportunities across the energy, infrastructure, transport and technology sectors.
Potential programmes to monitor include:
- Eskom
- Transnet
- MISA
- Zutari
- Schneider Electric
- Sasol
- CSIR
Zutari’s current programme supports civil and electrical engineering, while MISA includes electrical engineering among its technical bursary fields.
Schneider Electric’s programme is particularly relevant to students interested in engineering, technology and automation.
Best Bursaries for Chemical Engineering Students
Chemical engineering students can consider funding programmes connected to manufacturing, chemicals, energy, mining and research.
Sasol is particularly relevant because its 2027 bursary programme specifically lists chemical engineering.
Transnet also lists chemical engineering within its technical bursary fields.
Students should also monitor research-focused programmes where chemical engineering appears as an eligible qualification.
Best Bursaries for Mining Engineering Students
Mining engineering remains an important field in South Africa’s mining sector.
Students interested in mining engineering should monitor:
- Sasol
- Exxaro
- CSIR and related research opportunities
- Mining companies
- Mineral and energy sector organisations
Sasol specifically includes mining engineering among its 2027 bursary fields.
Exxaro’s student-development activities also include engineering and mining disciplines.
What Do Engineering Bursaries Usually Cover?
The funding package depends on the sponsor.
Some bursaries may provide only tuition assistance, while comprehensive programmes can cover several expenses.
For example, Transnet states that its comprehensive bursary covers tuition, accommodation and meals, books and experiential training.
MISA states that its bursaries cover tuition, books, accommodation and a monthly allowance.
This illustrates why students should not compare bursaries only by the word “fully funded.”
Read the actual funding package.
Do Engineering Bursaries Pay a Monthly Allowance?
Some do, while others may provide funding through different categories.
A monthly allowance can help with living costs, transport or other study-related expenses, but the amount and conditions differ between sponsors.
For example, MISA states that its bursaries include a monthly allowance.
Students should check the latest bursary advertisement for the exact allowance rather than relying on figures from previous years.
Do Engineering Bursaries Include Accommodation?
Some comprehensive bursaries cover accommodation.
Transnet states that its comprehensive bursary includes accommodation and meals.
MISA also states that its bursaries cover accommodation.
However, accommodation coverage does not necessarily mean that every residence or private accommodation arrangement will be paid for.
Read the sponsor’s conditions carefully.
Can Grade 12 Learners Apply for Engineering Bursaries?
Yes.
Many engineering bursaries accept students who are completing Grade 12 and intend to start university the following year.
However, the academic requirements can be strict.
For example, Zutari’s current programme lists a minimum 70% overall academic average for Grade 12 applicants, along with Level 7 in Mathematics and Physical Science.
This demonstrates why Grade 11 and Grade 12 students interested in engineering bursaries should focus on Mathematics, Physical Science and other subjects required for their intended engineering qualification.
Can Current University Students Apply for Engineering Bursaries?
Yes.
Some programmes accept students who are already studying engineering.
However, the eligible year of study varies.
Zutari’s current engineering bursary programme, for example, includes requirements for first-, second- and third-year students. (Zutari)
Other bursaries may be restricted to first-year students or final-year students.
Always check the specific programme requirements.
What Documents Are Needed for an Engineering Bursary?
The exact list depends on the sponsor, but applicants may be asked for:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Latest school results
- Latest academic transcript
- Proof of university acceptance
- Proof of registration
- Proof of household income
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter
- Fee statement
- Academic qualifications
- Proof of residence
Zutari, for example, lists a CV, certified ID or passport, academic qualifications and transcripts, fee statement for applicable students and Grade 12 results among its application requirements.
Prepare commonly requested documents before applications open so that you are not rushing close to the deadline.
How to Improve Your Engineering Bursary Application
Getting a bursary is competitive, particularly when the programme attracts students with strong academic records.
You can improve the quality of your application by focusing on several areas.
Meet the academic requirements
Do not apply blindly.
Check the minimum average, Mathematics requirements, Physical Science requirements and other criteria before applying.
Choose a field that matches the bursary
A bursary aimed at civil engineering students is unlikely to be useful to a student studying psychology.
Match your qualification to the sponsor’s listed fields.
Prepare your documents early
Keep certified and digital copies of important documents where appropriate.
Write a relevant motivation
Explain why you chose engineering, what you want to achieve and how the opportunity fits into your career plans.
Research the sponsor
Understanding what the organisation does can help you produce a more relevant application.
Apply before the deadline
Do not wait until the last day.
A technical problem, missing document or incorrect upload could prevent you from completing the application.
Do Engineering Bursaries Have Work-Back Requirements?
Some do.
This is one of the most important differences between bursaries.
A company may provide funding because it wants to develop future employees.
Transnet, for example, states that bursary recipients must render one year’s service for every year of financial aid received after obtaining their qualification.
Other programmes may have different conditions or no equivalent obligation.
Before accepting a bursary, read the agreement carefully.
What Happens After You Receive an Engineering Bursary?
Receiving a bursary does not mean that your responsibilities end.
You may be required to:
- Maintain a minimum academic average
- Pass your subjects
- Submit academic results
- Participate in mentorship
- Complete vacation work
- Attend company events
- Complete experiential training
- Maintain communication with the sponsor
- Meet work-back obligations where applicable
The exact conditions depend on the sponsor.
How to Find More Engineering Bursaries
Engineering students should not depend on one bursary.
A better approach is to create a list of opportunities based on your qualification.
For example, a civil engineering student can search across:
Civil engineering + bursary
Civil engineering + South Africa + 2027
Engineering bursary + university
Infrastructure bursary + South Africa
Construction engineering bursary
The same approach can be used for electrical, mechanical, chemical, mining and industrial engineering.
ApplyScholars can also organise these opportunities into individual bursary guides, allowing students to compare eligibility requirements, closing dates, documents and application procedures.
Engineering Bursary Application Checklist
Before submitting an application, check:
- I meet the citizenship requirement.
- My engineering field is eligible.
- My university or institution is eligible.
- I meet the minimum academic average.
- I meet the Mathematics requirement.
- I meet the Physical Science requirement where applicable.
- I have prepared my latest results.
- I have prepared my ID.
- I have prepared my academic transcript if I am already studying.
- I have prepared proof of acceptance or registration.
- I have completed the application form correctly.
- My motivation is specific to the bursary.
- My documents are clear and complete.
- I understand the funding package.
- I understand any work-back requirement.
- I have checked the closing date.
- I saved proof of submission.
Engineering Bursaries 2027 Quick Comparison
| Bursary/Programme | Engineering areas | Current 2027 information |
|---|---|---|
| CSIR Bursary | Electronic, Computer, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Civil Engineering | 2027 applications open; closes 15 September 2026 |
| Sasol Bursary | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Industrial, Mechanical, Mining, Metallurgical Engineering | 2027 programme announced |
| Zutari Bursary | Civil and Electrical Engineering | Applications open until 31 August 2026 |
| Schneider Electric | STEM, Engineering and Automation-related fields | 2027 external bursary advertised |
| Transnet Technical Bursary | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic, Chemical, Industrial, Mechatronics and others | Recurring technical bursary programme |
| Eskom Bursary | Engineering, science and energy-related fields | Recurring programme; monitor 2027 opening |
| Exxaro Bursary | Mining and technical engineering disciplines | Recurring student-development programme |
| MISA Technical Bursary | Civil, Electrical and built-environment fields | Technical bursary programme |
| Siemens | Engineering and technology | Monitor official 2027 programme information |
The availability and closing dates of bursaries can change, so students should verify the latest information directly with the relevant sponsor before submitting an application. (CSIR)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best engineering bursaries in South Africa for 2027?
Some of the major opportunities to consider include CSIR, Sasol, Zutari, Schneider Electric, Transnet, Eskom, Exxaro and MISA. The best option depends on your engineering field, academic results, university and the conditions attached to the bursary.
Which bursary is best for civil engineering students?
Civil engineering students can consider programmes such as CSIR, Zutari, MISA and Transnet. Each has different eligibility requirements and funding conditions. (CSIR)
Which bursaries are available for mechanical engineering?
Mechanical engineering is included in programmes such as Sasol, CSIR and Transnet. Students should also monitor engineering bursaries offered by manufacturing, mining and energy companies. (IT-Online)
Which bursaries are available for electrical engineering?
Potential opportunities include Eskom, Zutari, MISA, Schneider Electric, Sasol, CSIR and Transnet, depending on the specific application cycle and eligibility requirements. (Zutari)
Which engineering bursaries cover accommodation?
Some comprehensive programmes include accommodation. Transnet and MISA, for example, state that accommodation forms part of their bursary support. (Transnet)
Can Grade 12 students apply for engineering bursaries?
Yes. Many programmes accept prospective first-year students, although academic requirements can be demanding. Zutari’s current programme, for example, has specific requirements for Grade 12 applicants. (Zutari)
Can university students apply for engineering bursaries?
Yes. Some bursaries accept students already enrolled at university, but the eligible year of study differs between programmes.
Do engineering bursaries cover the full cost of studying?
Not all of them. Some are comprehensive, while others cover selected expenses. Always check exactly what the bursary pays for before accepting an offer.
Do engineering bursaries require students to work for the company after graduation?
Some do. Transnet, for example, has a service obligation linked to the number of years of financial assistance received. (Transnet)
What marks do I need for an engineering bursary?
There is no universal minimum mark. Each sponsor establishes its own academic requirements. Some programmes require strong Mathematics and Physical Science results in addition to an overall average.
When should I apply for an engineering bursary?
Apply as soon as applications open and before the stated deadline. For the current 2027 cycle, some engineering bursaries have deadlines during August and September 2026, including Zutari and CSIR. (Zutari)
Where can I find engineering bursaries for 2027?
Look at the official websites of engineering companies, government departments, research organisations, universities and professional bodies. Always verify the closing date and application requirements from the organisation offering the bursary before submitting personal information.
What should I do if I miss an engineering bursary deadline?
Look for other suitable opportunities rather than waiting for one programme to reopen. Engineering bursaries have different application periods, and some organisations operate annual programmes. Keep your documents ready so that you can apply quickly when another suitable opportunity opens.
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