If you’re passionate about engineering, science, and making a difference in the world, the Sasol Bursary Programme offers an incredible opportunity for South African students to pursue their studies in various fields, gain invaluable work experience, and contribute to the future of energy and sustainability.
The bursary programme is open for applications from 8 April to 18 May 2025, providing a comprehensive financial and developmental package to students who wish to study full-time at a recognised South African university.
What is the Sasol Bursary Programme?
The Sasol Bursary Programme is designed to support promising South African students who are keen on pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in engineering, science, and related fields. The bursaries offer more than just financial support—they also provide developmental resources to enhance students’ academic and professional growth throughout their study period.
Successful candidates will not only receive funding for their studies but will also have the opportunity to join Sasol’s Graduate Development Programmes after completing their degrees. However, it’s essential to note that Sasol’s bursaries come with a workback and/or payback obligation. This means that bursary recipients may need to work for Sasol for a certain period once they graduate, depending on the terms of the agreement.
Fields of Study Eligible for Sasol Bursaries
The Sasol Bursary Programme covers a wide range of degrees, from undergraduate studies to postgraduate research in various high-demand fields. Students must meet specific requirements to qualify for each programme.
Undergraduate Studies (B.Eng. / B.Sc.)
The bursaries for undergraduate studies are available for full-time degrees (not diplomas) in the following disciplines:
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry (Studies to Honours level required)
- Civil Engineering
- Data Science (Computer Science, Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics)
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Geology (Studies to Honours level required)
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy (Studies to Honours level required)
- Mining Engineering
Undergraduate Studies (B. Eng. Tech.) – University of Technology
The Sasol Bursary Programme also offers opportunities for students studying at a University of Technology in the following fields:
- Mine Surveying
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Instrumentation & Control Engineering (Electrical Light Current)
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Mechanical Engineering
Postgraduate Studies (M.Sc. / M.Eng. / Ph.D.)
Sasol is also focused on developing the next generation of experts in science and engineering. As part of their commitment to addressing South Africa’s economic growth needs, Sasol offers postgraduate bursaries for M.Sc., M.Eng., and Ph.D. studies in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.
The postgraduate bursaries support research in areas that contribute to Sasol’s sustainability goals and South Africa’s energy and circular economy transition. Specific research areas include:
- Chemical Engineering (Fluid Dynamics, Mathematical and Statistical Modelling, Process Modelling, Reactor Technology, Separation Technology, Thermodynamics)
- Chemistry (Analytical Chemistry, Catalysis, Polymer Science, Environmental Science)
- Cyber Security
- Data Science (Applied Mathematics, Statistics)
Postgraduate candidates are not required to have a detailed project proposal but should know the area they wish to explore. Sasol will work with selected candidates to finalize research topics in consultation with technical experts and academic supervisors.
Key Information for Applicants
Before applying for the Sasol Bursary Programme, it’s important for prospective candidates to be aware of the following conditions:
- Full-Time Study: Bursary recipients must study full-time at a recognised South African university. Distance learning programs like those at UNISA are not eligible for Sasol bursaries.
- One Application Per Student: Students are only allowed to submit one application for the bursary. Multiple submissions or incorrect information will result in disqualification.
- Strict Selection Criteria: Sasol carefully reviews applications to ensure that they meet specific academic and business requirements. Due to the competitiveness of the bursary program, only the most academically competitive candidates will be selected for the interview stage.
- Conditional Offer: If a student applies with Grade 11 results (for example, students applying for 1st year studies in 2026 would apply with their Grade 11 marks), the bursary offer is conditional and will only be activated if the student’s Grade 12 results are up to par.
- Incorrect Information: Any incorrect or misleading information provided during the application process could result in the immediate withdrawal of the bursary offer.
- Application Deadline: The application deadline is 18 May 2025, and applications submitted after this date will not be considered. Students must submit their applications online through the Sasol Bursary Programme website. Applications sent via email or through other channels will not be accepted.
Why Apply for the Sasol Bursary Programme?
The Sasol Bursary Programme offers a unique opportunity for South African students to gain access to world-class education and professional development within a leading energy and chemical company. Here’s why you should consider applying:
- Comprehensive Financial Support: The bursary covers tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and a living stipend, ensuring that financial constraints don’t stand in the way of your education.
- Development Opportunities: Besides financial assistance, Sasol provides valuable developmental support to help you succeed in your studies and future career.
- Career Prospects: Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible for employment through Sasol’s Graduate Development Programmes, providing you with the chance to start your career in a global company.
- Contribution to South Africa’s Growth: By applying for a Sasol bursary, you’ll be part of South Africa’s economic development, especially in energy and sustainability fields, where there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals.
- A Workback Obligation: While this may seem like a commitment, it ensures that you can gain meaningful, hands-on experience after your studies, making you an attractive candidate in the job market.
How to Apply
To apply for the Sasol Bursary Programme, you will need to follow these steps:
- Visit the Sasol Bursary Programme Website: The application must be submitted online through the official Sasol bursary portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Ensure that you provide accurate information regarding your academic history, and personal details, and upload all necessary supporting documents.
- Submit Your Grade 11 Results: Applicants must submit their most recent academic results (Grade 11 for 1st-year students, Grade 12 for applicants who have completed school).
- Wait for Shortlisting: If you are shortlisted, Sasol will invite you for an interview. This stage involves further evaluation to determine if you meet the requirements for the bursary.
- Confirmation and Conditional Offer: If selected, you will receive a conditional bursary offer, which will be finalized after you submit your final Grade 12 results.
Students who meet the requirements and wish to apply should do so through the official Sasol Bursary Programme website. Ensure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted before the deadline.
- Application Deadline: 18 May 2025
- Contact Information: For any inquiries or technical issues related to the application, you can contact Berlyne Rasool at berlyne.rasool@adcorpgroup.com or call 086 010 6235.
Check also: Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026
The Sasol Bursary Programme offers a life-changing opportunity for South African students with a passion for engineering, science, and making a difference in the world. By providing both financial support and career development, Sasol aims to cultivate the next generation of skilled professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s economic and environmental growth.