Sasol South African Mainstream Bursary Programme 2026 is a game‑changer for high‑performing students who want to study engineering or science. If you’re ready to shape South Africa’s energy future, this full‑ride scholarship could turn your ambition into a concrete career path.
What the Sasol Bursary Is All About
The Sasol bursary is a “full‑ride” scholarship. It pays your tuition, helps with accommodation, and covers the textbooks you need. On top of that, you receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses so you can focus on learning, not money. The programme also gives you early career guidance from technical experts and access to Sasol’s world‑class facilities.
Who Can Apply
If you’re a South African citizen under 30, this bursary is for you. You must be enrolled or about to enrol full‑time at a recognised South African university. Only degree‑level programmes are covered – diplomas or distance learning (e.g., UNISA) are not eligible. Applicants are judged on academic results from the previous year; for Grade 12 applicants, you’ll use your Grade 11 final results.
Fields of Study
- Undergraduate Engineering: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Industrial, Mechanical, Mining, Metallurgical.
- Undergraduate Science: Chemistry and Geology (to Honours).
- Data Science: Degrees in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research.
All of these programmes require a solid maths background (not just Mathematical Literacy). Sasol also offers postgraduate bursaries for research that supports the energy transition, such as fluid dynamics, reactor technology, catalysis, and polymer science.
What You Get Out of It
Beyond the money, the bursary locks you into Sasol’s Graduate Development pipeline. After you graduate, you’ll be expected to work for Sasol for a period equal to the bursary duration. This guarantees a first job in a global company and gives you valuable industry experience. You’ll also gain mentorship, technical training, and networking opportunities that most graduate programmes do not offer.
How to Apply – Step By Step
- Gather your ID, academic transcripts, and proof of university application.
- Go to the official application page: APPLY FOR THE SASOL MAINSTREAM BURSARY HERE.
- Fill in the online form completely. Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.
- Upload your documents and submit before the deadline.
The application window runs from 1 April to 17 May 2026. Don’t wait until the last day – the earlier you apply, the easier it is to organise your paperwork.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Application
Many applicants struggle with the “Motivation Letter” section. From experience, most successful candidates talk about how their passion connects to South Africa’s energy challenges or green hydrogen projects. Don’t just list your grades; tell a story about why this field matters to you and how you see yourself contributing to Sasol’s future.
Check that your Grade 11 results are certified and up to date. Since the programme requires a workback agreement, demonstrating that you understand Sasol’s recent projects and how they align with your career goals shows you’re serious about staying with the company after graduation.
If this is your first time applying, don’t worry. Start early, keep your documents organised, and seek feedback from a mentor or career centre on your motivation letter.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
This bursary can remove financial barriers and give you a secure career start in a leading energy and chemicals company. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss the 2026 application window. Gather your paperwork, craft a heartfelt motivation letter, and apply through the official link above. Good luck – your future could begin with Sasol.