Sasol Foundation Bursaries 2027: A Guide to STEM and Non-STEM Funding

The Sasol Foundation is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year, providing a valuable opportunity for South African students to pursue higher education. This program specifically targets academically strong students who also face financial challenges, aiming to support their first undergraduate degree. The focus is on fields crucial for future industries, with a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is key to successfully securing this funding.

About the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme is designed to cultivate talent in areas vital for South Africa’s economic growth and technological advancement. It supports students pursuing their initial undergraduate qualification in fields identified as priorities for future industries and skills. This includes emerging sectors like the Green Economy and Digitalisation, with a significant focus on STEM disciplines. The program aims to bridge the gap for students who show academic promise but lack the financial means to continue their studies.

Sasol, the company behind the foundation, is a global integrated energy and chemicals firm. It is known for developing and commercializing technologies and marketing a wide range of products. Sasol plays a substantial role in the South African economy and is committed to innovation, sustainability, and community development. Through its foundation, Sasol invests in education to build a pipeline of skilled professionals for the nation’s evolving needs.

Available Sasol Bursary Opportunities for 2027

For the 2027 academic year, the Sasol Foundation presents several bursary streams. Students should carefully select the programme that best aligns with their academic path and personal situation.

• Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries: These are for students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
• Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries: These are more limited and typically for specific groups, such as children of Sasol employees or those from designated communities.
• Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme: This is a separate program for students from specific mining communities, with a later application period.

It is important to note that the Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is currently closed for applications.

Sasol Foundation STEM Bursaries

The STEM bursaries are specifically for students aiming for qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The program prioritizes fields that align with future industry demands, such as those related to the Green Economy and Digitalisation. This encompasses a broad spectrum of engineering disciplines, information technology, data science, environmental science, and other forward-looking STEM subjects. The bursary information for 2027 does not cover postgraduate studies.

Priority STEM Study Areas

The bursary program supports a variety of STEM fields that are considered essential for future economic development. Examples of these priority study areas include:

• Engineering: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Mining, and Metallurgical Engineering.
• Information Technology and Data Science: Degrees in computer science, data analytics, and related fields.
• Environmental Science: Focusing on sustainability and ecological management.
• Medical Sciences: Supporting future healthcare professionals.
• Construction and Manufacturing: Degrees related to these industrial sectors.
• Other Future-Focused STEM Disciplines: Any other emerging STEM fields identified by Sasol.

Applicants are encouraged to check the official bursary portal for the most up-to-date list of accepted qualifications.

Engineering and Science Degrees Supported

Undergraduate degrees that are eligible for funding include Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) programs in various disciplines like Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineering. Science degrees in fields such as Chemistry, Geology, Data Science, Computer Science, and Statistics are also supported. Specific programs like Mining Engineering and Metallurgical Engineering are included, as is Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg under certain conditions.

Mathematics Requirements for STEM

A critical requirement for the Engineering and Science bursaries is a strong foundation in Mathematics. It is important to note that Technical Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are not accepted for these specific bursary streams. Applicants must ensure their academic records show the standard Mathematics subject at the required level for their intended qualification.

Sasol Foundation Non-STEM Bursaries

The Non-STEM bursary options are more restricted. These are generally available to specific groups, such as children of Sasol employees, children of Sasol Khanyisa shareholders, and students residing in Sasol’s designated fence-line communities. While the field of study may not be STEM-focused, applicants must still meet the general eligibility and academic requirements for the bursary. Postgraduate studies are not funded under this particular program.

Sasol Mining Fence-line Bursary Programme

A distinct bursary program is available for students who come from qualifying mining fence-line communities. The application window for this specific program is scheduled to open later, from August 24, 2026, to September 13, 2026. This timeline is separate from the main Sasol Foundation application period.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements for All Applicants

To be considered for any Sasol Foundation bursary, applicants must meet a set of core criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen by birth.
• Age: Must be younger than 25 years old at the time of application.
• Qualification Level: Must be pursuing their first undergraduate qualification.
• Study Mode: Must study full-time.
• Academic Standing: Must meet the academic requirements for their chosen university qualification.
• Household Income: Combined annual household income must not exceed R800,000.
• Institution and Field: Must study at an institution and in a qualification accepted by the bursary program.

First-Year Applicant Requirements

Students applying for funding for their first year of study must meet specific criteria:

• They should be currently completing Matric or have finished it in the year prior to applying.
• They must meet the academic entry requirements for their intended university degree.
• They need to qualify for admission to the university program itself.
• Their most recent academic results must be ready for submission.

Current University Student Requirements

University students applying for funding for their second, third, or fourth year of study must demonstrate consistent academic achievement. They need to maintain an overall academic average of at least 60% to be considered for continued funding. It is also essential that they remain eligible for their degree program.

Household Income Requirement Details

Financial need is a significant factor in the bursary selection process. The total annual income of an applicant’s family or guardians must not go over R800,000. Applicants will be required to provide documentation to prove their household income as part of the financial assessment.

Institution and Study Options

The Sasol Foundation bursary is intended for students attending approved South African public universities. While Universities of Technology are mentioned, funding for their programs might be limited, with some specific exceptions like Mine Surveying. Applicants planning to study at a University of Technology should confirm their program’s eligibility directly on the official Sasol bursary portal.

Study Options Not Funded

Certain study paths and institutions are not covered by this bursary program. These include:

• Studies at UNISA (University of South Africa).
• Diploma qualifications.
• Postgraduate qualifications (under the Foundation program).
• Hybrid or combined degree programs.
• Some qualifications offered at Universities of Technology.

It is crucial for applicants to confirm that their chosen qualification and institution are eligible before submitting their application.

What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Covers

The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, although specific monetary limits and exact components are not detailed in the provided information. Successful applicants can expect funding for their educational expenses. Applicants should consult the official award conditions for precise details on what is covered, which may include tuition fees, registration costs, accommodation, learning materials, and other necessary allowances.

Academic and Development Support

Beyond financial aid, bursary recipients may have access to additional support services. These can include academic assistance programs, personal development opportunities, and exposure to Sasol’s broader development initiatives. These programs are designed to help students succeed academically and prepare them for future career paths.

The Selection Process

The selection process for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme involves several stages. This typically begins with an online application, followed by academic screening and verification of eligibility and household income. Psychometric assessments and interviews may also be part of the process. Applicants must ensure their contact information remains up-to-date throughout the selection period.

Psychometric Assessments

Psychometric assessments are a standard component of the selection process for many bursaries. Applicants who advance to this stage will receive specific instructions from Sasol. Completing these assessments is a mandatory step, but it does not guarantee that a bursary will be awarded.

Application Outcome Notification

Applicants can expect to be notified about the outcome of their bursary application around the end of November 2026. Only those candidates who successfully complete all required selection stages will be offered bursary funding.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should gather the following documents for their application:

• A copy of their South African identity document.
• Their most recent academic results (e.g., Matric results).
• A full academic transcript (for current university students).
• Proof of university registration (if currently enrolled).
• Proof of permanent residential address.
• Documentation to verify household income.
• Any additional documents specifically requested on the online application portal.

Applicants should always refer to the official portal’s checklist for the most accurate and current document requirements.

How to Apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Applications must be submitted online through the official Sasol bursary portal.

Apply for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Follow these steps to complete your application:

1. Visit the official Sasol bursary portal.
2. Select the appropriate 2027 bursary program.
3. Register a new account or log in if you already have one.
4. Accurately fill in all required personal details.
5. Provide correct academic information.
6. Enter your household income details.
7. Upload all necessary documents, ensuring they are certified copies where required.
8. Complete any required declarations.
9. Carefully review your entire application for any errors or omissions.
10. Submit your application before the closing date of August 23, 2026.

Technical Application Support

If you encounter any technical difficulties while filling out the online application, you can contact the Sasol bursary call center for assistance. The number for technical support is 086 010 6235.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 is August 23, 2026. Applications are currently open. It is strongly recommended to apply well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical issues or submission errors.

Important Application Conditions

Applicants must be aware of the following crucial conditions:

• South African citizenship by birth is mandatory.
• Applicants must be under 25 years of age.
• Funding is exclusively for the first undergraduate qualification.
• Study must be full-time.
• The household income limit is R800,000 per year.
• Current university students require at least a 60% academic average.
• Postgraduate studies and diploma qualifications are not funded under this program.
• UNISA studies are not eligible for funding.
• Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee that a bursary will be awarded.

Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, ensure you have completed the following:

• Submitted your application online by August 23, 2026.
• Confirmed you are a South African citizen by birth.
• Confirmed you are younger than 25 years old.
• Confirmed you are pursuing your first undergraduate degree.
• Confirmed you will be studying full-time.
• Verified that your chosen qualification is in an approved funding field.
• Verified that your chosen university is eligible.
• Confirmed your household income does not exceed R800,000 per year.
• Met the Mathematics and Physical Sciences requirements if applicable.
• Prepared your academic records.
• Prepared your identity document.
• Prepared your household income verification documents.
• Prepared proof of residence if required.
• Ensured your application is complete and accurate.

Conclusion

The Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme for 2027 offers a significant opportunity for South African students to pursue higher education in critical fields, particularly STEM. By understanding the detailed eligibility requirements, the types of bursaries available, and the application process, prospective candidates can increase their chances of success. Remember to carefully review all conditions, gather the necessary documents, and submit your application before the August 23, 2026 deadline to be considered for this valuable financial support.