How to Apply for the Hillary Construction Bursary Programme 2027

This guide will walk you through the process of applying for the Hillary Construction Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. It’s designed for South African students pursuing National Diplomas or Degrees in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Surveying who meet specific academic and matriculation requirements. By following these steps, you can ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly, increasing your chances of receiving funding and a valuable learnership opportunity. Prerequisites include having completed Matric with exemption, studying at a recognized South African institution, and achieving the minimum academic average.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before you start, make sure you meet all the minimum requirements for the Hillary Construction Bursary. This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on an application you won’t qualify for.

Action: Review the eligibility criteria carefully.

Expected Outcome: You will know if you are eligible to apply.

Mistakes to Avoid: Assuming you qualify without checking specific requirements like Matric exemption, field of study, or minimum average.

Sub-steps:

• Verify you are a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Confirm you completed Matric with an exemption certificate.
• Check if your intended course of study (Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Surveying) is covered.
• Ensure you are studying or plan to study at a recognized and accredited University or University of Technology in South Africa.
• Calculate your current overall average to ensure it meets the minimum requirement (65% for university students, or specific symbols for University of Technology students).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Having all necessary documents ready will streamline your application process. Missing documents can lead to disqualification.

Action: Collect all the documents specified by Hillary Construction.

Expected Outcome: You will have a complete set of documents ready for submission.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting incomplete academic records or an outdated CV.

Sub-steps:

• Academic Record: Obtain your full tertiary academic record on the institution’s official letterhead. Ensure it is up-to-date and accurate.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Prepare a comprehensive CV that highlights your academic achievements, any relevant experience, and contact information.

Step 3: Understand the Learnership Component

The bursary includes a mandatory one-year learnership in Road Construction. Understanding this component is important for your planning.

Action: Familiarize yourself with the learnership requirement.

Expected Outcome: You will understand that a learnership is part of the bursary program and that funding for the following academic year is considered after this period.

Mistakes to Avoid: Not being aware of or prepared for the one-year learnership, or expecting immediate funding for multiple academic years.

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Email

Your application will be submitted via email. A clear and correctly formatted email is essential.

Action: Draft your application email, ensuring all required information and documents are included.

Expected Outcome: A professional and complete email ready to be sent.

Mistakes to Avoid: Forgetting to attach documents, using an incorrect email subject line, or sending an incomplete application.

Sub-steps:

• Email Address: Send your application to [email protected].
• Subject Line: Use the exact subject line: “Hillary Construction Bursary 2027”.
• Email Body: Briefly introduce yourself, state that you are applying for the 2027 bursary, and mention that your required documents are attached.
• Attachments: Ensure your academic record and CV are attached to the email.

Step 5: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline

Timeliness is critical for your application. Late submissions will not be considered.

Action: Send your application email well before the closing date.

Expected Outcome: Your application is successfully submitted on time.

Mistakes to Avoid: Missing the application deadline.

Key Information:

• Application Closing Date: 30 November 2026.

Step 6: Await Feedback and Potential Next Steps

After submitting your application, the selection process begins. Be prepared for potential follow-ups.

Action: Wait for communication from Hillary Construction regarding your application status.

Expected Outcome: You will be notified if you have been shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process.

What to Expect:

• Shortlisted candidates may be contacted via telephone or email.
• You might be required to attend an interview and/or psychometric testing at the Hillary Construction Head Office in Polokwane.
• Applicants who do not receive feedback should assume their application was unsuccessful.

Frequently Asked Questions