Sasol Foundation Bursaries 2027: Apply for STEM and Non-STEM Study Funding
The Sasol Foundation is offering bursaries for South African students pursuing undergraduate studies in 2027. This opportunity is for academically capable and financially deserving students in priority fields. Applications opened on August 1, 2026, and close on August 23, 2026.
Application Closing Date: 23 August 2026
Location: Approved public universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (comprehensive financial support)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (for first-year applicants) or relevant university results (for current students)
Opportunity Type: Bursary
About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme aims to support students who are pursuing their first undergraduate qualification in fields that are important for South Africa’s future. The programme focuses on both Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, as well as certain non-STEM areas. Sasol is committed to developing talent and providing opportunities for young South Africans to achieve their academic and career goals.
This bursary is designed to assist students who demonstrate academic potential but may face financial barriers to higher education. It covers a range of study areas, with a particular emphasis on qualifications that align with future industries and skills, such as the green economy and digitalization.
About Sasol
Sasol is a global integrated chemicals and energy company. It is involved in the development and commercialization of technologies, as well as the marketing of its diverse range of products. Sasol operates in South Africa and internationally, contributing to various sectors through its innovative solutions and commitment to sustainability.
Sasol Bursary Opportunities Available for 2027
The Sasol Foundation offers several bursary streams for the 2027 academic year. Applicants should choose the programme that best fits their field of study and personal circumstances. The main categories include:
- Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries
- Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries
- Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme
The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is currently closed for applications.
Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries
The STEM bursary programme is for students pursuing qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Priority is given to fields related to the green economy and digitalization. This includes areas like engineering, technology, data science, and environmental science.
Priority STEM Study Areas
Examples of priority study areas supported by the STEM bursaries include:
- Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Mining, Metallurgical)
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Statistics
- Operations Research
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Environmental Science
- Agricultural Science
- Medical Sciences
- Construction
- Manufacturing
Engineering and Science Degrees
Specific undergraduate qualifications supported under the STEM bursaries include various engineering degrees and science degrees. For example, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Geology, and Data Science are listed. Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg is also supported under specific conditions.
Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries
The Non-STEM bursaries are more limited and are intended for specific groups of applicants. These include children of Sasol employees, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and students from Sasol’s fence-line communities. Applicants must still meet the general eligibility and academic requirements.
Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme
A separate Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme is planned for students from qualifying mining fence-line communities. Applications for this programme are scheduled to open later, from August 24, 2026, to September 13, 2026. This is a distinct application period from the main Sasol Foundation bursaries.
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 course.
- Have a combined annual household income of R800,000 or less.
- Study at an approved South African public university.
First-Year Applicant Requirements
Applicants applying for funding for their first year of study should either be currently completing Matric or have completed Matric within the year prior to applying. They must meet the specific academic entry requirements for their intended university degree program.
Current University Student Requirements
Students who are already studying at university and are applying for funding for subsequent years must maintain a strong academic record. They need an overall academic average of at least 60% from their previous year of study.
Household Income Requirement
The combined annual income of the applicant’s household must not exceed R800,000. Applicants will need to provide documentation to verify their household income as part of the financial need assessment.
Engineering Academic Requirements
For BEng and BSc Engineering programmes, applicants generally need a minimum of 70% to 79% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. For BEng Tech programmes, the requirement is typically 60% to 69% in these subjects. English results must also be appropriate for the chosen qualification.
Important Note: Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted for these bursaries.
Institution Requirements
Bursaries are 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 confirm 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
What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Covers
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support for successful applicants. While specific monetary limits are not detailed in the provided information, it typically covers educational expenses such as tuition, registration fees, accommodation, learning materials, and other approved costs.
Academic and Development Support
Beyond financial aid, bursary recipients may also benefit from academic support, development opportunities, and exposure to Sasol’s broader development programmes. These initiatives aim to support students’ overall growth and prepare them for future careers.
Selection Process
The selection process involves several stages, including an online application, academic screening, eligibility verification, and household income verification. Psychometric assessments and interviews may also be part of the process. Applicants should ensure their contact details are up-to-date.
Application Outcome
Applicants can expect to hear about the outcome of their bursary application by the end of November 2026. Only candidates who successfully complete all required selection stages will receive an offer.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Latest academic results (Matric results or university transcripts)
- Proof of university registration (if applicable)
- Proof of permanent residential address
- Household income documentation (e.g., payslips, tax returns)
- Any additional documents requested on the application portal
How to Apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
Applications must be submitted online through the official Sasol bursary portal.
Click here to apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
Applicants should:
- Visit the official Sasol bursary portal.
- Select the relevant 2027 bursary programme.
- Register an account or log in.
- Complete all personal and academic details accurately.
- Provide household income information.
- Upload all required certified documents.
- Review the entire application before submitting.
- Submit the application before the closing date of August 23, 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 application period for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme closes on August 23, 2026. 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.
- Study must be full-time at an approved public university.
- The household income limit is R800,000 per year.
- Current university students need at least a 60% average.
- Postgraduate and diploma studies are not funded.
- UNISA studies are not eligible.
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a bursary award.
Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, ensure you have:
- Completed the online application by August 23, 2026.
- Confirmed your South African citizenship by birth.
- Verified you are younger than 25 years old.
- Ensured you are pursuing your first undergraduate degree.
- Confirmed you will study full-time.
- Checked that your chosen qualification and university are eligible.
- Verified your household income meets the R800,000 limit.
- Gathered your academic records and ID.
- Prepared your household income documentation.
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