This guide will walk you through the process of applying for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. This program is designed for South African university students entering their second year of study who demonstrate financial need and strong academic potential in fields relevant to Tiger Brands’ business. By following these steps, you can ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly before the deadline. Prerequisites include having completed Matric, currently being in your first year of university, and having achieved at least a 65% overall average in Matric and your first-semester results.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before you begin gathering documents, carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary. This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on an application that won’t be considered.
Action:
- Read through the ‘Who Can Apply?’ section of the bursary information.
- Verify that you meet all requirements, including:
- Being a South African citizen.
- Having completed Matric.
- Currently studying towards an undergraduate qualification and entering your second year in 2027.
- Studying in a field relevant to Tiger Brands (e.g., Engineering, Food Science, Supply Chain, Finance, Data Science, IT).
- Demonstrating financial need.
- Achieving at least a 65% overall average in Matric and your first-semester university results.
- Studying at a recognised South African university.
Expected Outcome: You will have a clear understanding of whether you meet the basic requirements for the bursary.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Assuming you are eligible without checking all criteria.
- Applying if you do not meet the minimum academic average.
- Applying if you are not entering your second year in 2027.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents as specified by Tiger Brands. Having these ready will streamline the application process. Ensure all copies are certified.
Action:
- Obtain certified copies of the following:
- Your South African ID document.
- Your Matric certificate.
- Your first-semester academic transcript or record for your first year of study.
- Proof of your parent or guardian’s household income. This can include:
- Latest payslips (if employed).
- An affidavit (if unemployed).
- Proof of pension income.
- Proof of SASSA grant (if applicable).
Expected Outcome: You will have a complete set of certified documents ready for submission.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Submitting uncertified copies.
- Providing outdated or incorrect proof of income.
- Forgetting to include any of the listed documents.
Step 3: Prepare Your Email Application
Tiger Brands does not use a separate application form. You will submit your application by emailing the required documents. Pay close attention to the subject line.
Action:
- Compose a new email to [email protected].
- In the email subject line, type exactly: Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary.
- Attach all the certified documents you gathered in Step 2 to this email.
- Write a brief, polite message in the email body, stating that you are submitting your application for the Graduate Bursary Programme.
Expected Outcome: Your email is correctly addressed, has the right subject line, and contains all necessary attachments.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using the wrong email address.
- Typing the subject line incorrectly, which may lead to your email being missed or misfiled.
- Forgetting to attach any documents.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
Ensure your application is sent well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute issues. Late applications will not be considered.
Action:
- Review your email one final time to confirm all documents are attached and the subject line is correct.
- Send the email.
- Note the closing date: 22 October 2026.
Expected Outcome: Your application is successfully submitted on time.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Missing the deadline of 22 October 2026.
- Sending the email on the deadline day, risking potential delays or technical issues.
Step 5: Follow Up and Await Notification
After submitting your application, there is a period of waiting for Tiger Brands to review applications and make decisions. You can also find contact information for inquiries.
Action:
- Keep a record of when you sent your application.
- Be patient as the selection process takes time.
- If you have specific questions about the bursary after submitting your application, you can contact Tiger Brands via email at [email protected].
Expected Outcome: You have submitted your application and know how to seek clarification if needed. You will be notified by Tiger Brands regarding the outcome of your application.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Contacting Tiger Brands excessively with general queries.
- Assuming you have been successful or unsuccessful before official notification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary?
You must be a South African citizen, have completed Matric, be entering your second year of university in 2027, study a relevant field, show financial need, and have at least a 65% average.
What documents do I need to apply?
You need certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate, first-semester academic transcript, and proof of your household’s income.
How do I submit my application?
You apply by emailing all required certified documents to [email protected] with the subject line ‘Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary’.
When is the deadline to apply?
The deadline for submitting your application is 22 October 2026.
