Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027: A Guide for Aspiring Students

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme is now accepting applications for the 2027 academic year. This program aims to support talented individuals pursuing higher education in South Africa, addressing the country’s need for skilled professionals. Sasol recognizes the importance of developing future talent and offers two distinct bursary streams to cater to a variety of academic pursuits.

This guide will break down the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme, covering the types of bursaries available, eligibility requirements, and how to apply. Understanding these details is key for any student hoping to secure this valuable financial support for their studies.

Understanding the Bursary Options

The Sasol Foundation provides two main types of bursaries: STEM Bursaries and Non-STEM Bursaries. Each is designed to support different fields of study and has specific criteria for applicants.

STEM Bursaries

These bursaries are for students who plan to study full-time towards an undergraduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Sasol places a strong emphasis on degrees that align with future economic needs, such as those in the Green Economy and Digitalization. This includes disciplines like engineering, information technology, data sciences, agricultural science, environmental sciences, medical sciences, and construction and manufacturing. It’s important to note that postgraduate bursaries are not available for the upcoming academic year.

Non-STEM Bursaries

The Non-STEM bursaries are specifically for qualifying students from Sasol’s surrounding communities, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and children of Sasol employees. These bursaries support students wishing to pursue qualifications outside of the traditional STEM fields. Similar to the STEM bursaries, postgraduate support is not offered for the next academic year.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme, applicants must meet a set of specific criteria. These requirements ensure that the bursaries are awarded to deserving candidates who align with Sasol’s goals for talent development.

General Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens by birth.
• Academic Performance: A strong academic record is essential. University students applying for their second, third, or fourth year of study must achieve an average of 60% across all their modules.
• Age Limit: Applicants must not be older than 25 years at the time of application.
• Matriculation: Students applying for their first year of degree studies must have completed matric within the year prior to application or be in their final year of matriculation this year.
• First Undergraduate Degree: The bursary is intended for students pursuing their first undergraduate degree.

Financial and Community-Specific Criteria

• Household Income: The combined household income of applicants must not exceed R800,000 per annum. The selection process prioritizes students who demonstrate financial need alongside strong academic merit.
• Non-STEM Specifics: For Non-STEM bursaries, eligibility is restricted to children of Sasol employees, Khanyisa/Inzalo shareholders, or candidates from communities located near Sasol operations.

How to Apply for the Bursary

The application process for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme is managed online. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official Sasol bursaries portal to submit their applications and find more detailed information.

Application Steps:

1. Visit the Portal: Navigate to the Sasol Bursaries portal.
2. Complete Application: Fill out the online application form accurately and completely.
3. Submit Documents: Upload all required supporting documents, which may include academic transcripts, proof of income, and identification.
4. Review and Submit: Before submitting, carefully review your application for any errors.

The deadline for applications is August 23, 2026. It is advisable to apply well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Conclusion

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme offers a significant opportunity for South African students to pursue their educational goals in both STEM and non-STEM fields. By understanding the different bursary types, meeting the eligibility criteria, and following the application process carefully, aspiring students can position themselves for success. This program not only supports individual academic journeys but also contributes to building a skilled workforce for South Africa’s future.