How to Apply for the Amazon Software Development Engineer Recruitment Bursary in South Africa 2027

This guide is for South African students pursuing undergraduate degrees in technology-related fields who are interested in financial support and practical experience. By following these steps, you will learn how to apply for the Amazon Software Development Engineer (SDE) Recruitment Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year, with the goal of securing funding and a potential career path with Amazon. Before you begin, ensure you meet the minimum requirements, including being a South African citizen, having completed Matric, studying an approved field, and maintaining a minimum academic average of 65%.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Requirements

Before starting your application, carefully review all the minimum requirements to ensure you qualify. This includes your citizenship, academic background, field of study, year of study, and academic average.

Action: Read through the ‘Minimum Requirements’ section of the bursary information.
Expected Outcome: You will have a clear understanding of whether you meet all the criteria.
Mistakes to Avoid: Assuming you qualify without checking every point; overlooking the specific year of study requirements for 2027.

Here are the key requirements to check:

• Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
• Education: You must have completed Matric.
• Field of Study: You must be studying towards an undergraduate degree in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, Machine Learning, or Software Engineering.
• Year of Study: You must be entering the final year of a three-year degree in 2027, or the third year of a four-year degree in 2027. You must also intend to complete studies up to Honours or NQF Level 8 by the end of 2027.
• Academic Performance: You must have achieved and maintained an overall academic average of at least 65%.
• Institution: You must be studying at a recognised and accredited South African university.
• Career Interest: You should be interested in Software Development Engineering and pursuing a career with Amazon.
• Commitment: You must be willing to participate in the Amazon paid summer internship and training opportunities, and be available to start full-time permanent employment in January 2028 if an offer is made.

This step is crucial for preventing wasted effort on ineligible applications.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents for your application. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Action: Compile certified copies of all listed documents.
Expected Outcome: You will have a complete set of application documents ready for submission.
Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting uncertified copies; failing to obtain proof of income or other sensitive documents; not ensuring documents are clear and legible.

Here is a list of the documents you will need:

• Identification: A certified copy of your South African ID.
• Matric Certificate: A certified copy of your Matric certificate.
• Academic Records: Certified full academic records or transcripts.
• Proof of Income: Parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips or employer letter if employed, latest financial statements if self-employed, or an affidavit if unemployed).
• Supporting Documents: Death certificates where parents or guardians are deceased, divorce certificate where applicable, or a sworn statement where parents or guardians are separated.
• Photograph: A clear head-and-shoulders profile photograph.
• Proof of Address: Certified proof of address.

Make sure all documents are clear and complete before submitting them.

Step 3: Access the Online Application Portal

Applications are submitted online through StudyTrust. Ensure you have a stable internet connection before you begin.

Action: Navigate to the StudyTrust application portal.
Expected Outcome: You will be on the correct platform to begin filling out the application form.
Mistakes to Avoid: Going to the wrong website; starting the application without all documents ready.

You can access the application portal here: Click here to apply for the Amazon Bursary South Africa 2027

It is also a good idea to read the StudyTrust application instructions before you start. You can find them here: Click here to view the StudyTrust bursary application instructions

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Fill out all sections of the online application form accurately and completely. Pay close attention to details related to your personal information, academic history, and financial situation.

Action: Enter all requested information into the online form.
Expected Outcome: A fully completed application form is ready for review.
Mistakes to Avoid: Typos in personal details; providing vague answers; leaving required fields blank.

When filling out the form, focus on these areas:

• Personal Details: Ensure your name, contact information, and address are entered correctly.
• Academic Achievements: Provide accurate details about your Matric results and current university studies, including your chosen field and academic average.
• Financial Information: You will need to provide details about your household income and financial needs. Be honest and thorough.
• Motivation: Some applications may ask for a brief statement on why you are interested in the bursary and a career with Amazon.

Remember to double-check all your entries before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload all the certified documents you gathered in Step 2 to the online application portal. Ensure each document is uploaded to the correct field to avoid confusion.

Action: Upload each required document to its designated section in the application.
Expected Outcome: All supporting documents are successfully submitted with your application.
Mistakes to Avoid: Uploading the wrong file; failing to upload all required documents; submitting blurry or unreadable scans.

When uploading your documents, keep these points in mind:

• File Format: Ensure documents are in a common format like PDF or JPG.
• Clarity: Scans should be clear and easy to read.
• Completeness: Double-check that you have uploaded every document requested.
• Correct Field: Make sure each document is uploaded to the correct section of the application form.

Proper document submission is vital for a strong application.

Step 6: Review and Submit Your Application

Before final submission, take time to thoroughly review your entire application, including all entered information and uploaded documents. Ensure everything is accurate and complete.

Action: Read through your application and check all details.
Expected Outcome: A finalized and error-free application is submitted.
Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting without a final check; missing the application deadline.

This final review is your last chance to catch any errors. Check for:

• Typos: Look for spelling mistakes in names, addresses, and other personal details.
• Accuracy: Verify that all academic and financial information is correct.
• Completeness: Confirm that all required fields are filled and all necessary documents are uploaded.

The application closing date is 11 November 2026. Make sure to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Step 7: Await Further Communication

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for StudyTrust and Amazon to review it. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.

Action: Monitor your email and phone for any communication from StudyTrust or Amazon.
Expected Outcome: You will be informed if you have been shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process.
Mistakes to Avoid: Repeatedly contacting StudyTrust for updates before the review period has passed; missing important emails due to spam filters.

Here’s what to expect and how to manage this waiting period:

• Check Regularly: Keep an eye on your email inbox, including your spam or junk folder, for messages from StudyTrust or Amazon.
• Be Patient: The review process can take time. Avoid contacting the bursary administrators excessively for updates.
• Prepare for Next Steps: If you are shortlisted, you may be required to complete additional assessments. Be ready to engage with these opportunities.

The selection process may involve further assessments, so stay prepared and informed.

Frequently Asked Questions