South Africa continues to face a shortage of skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). To help address this challenge while creating life-changing opportunities for deserving students, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), together with the Sasol Foundation, has once again opened its highly respected bursary programme.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
If you are passionate about building a career in engineering, science, technology or mathematics but financial constraints are standing in your way, this bursary could be exactly what you need. It does much more than pay tuition fees. Successful students receive comprehensive financial support, mentorship, academic development, psychosocial support and even workplace exposure throughout their studies.
Quick Overview
Bursary Programme: CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary Scheme 2026
Organisation:
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in partnership with the Sasol Foundation
Study Level:
- Undergraduate studies
Fields Supported:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics (STEM)
Who Can Apply?
- Unemployed South African citizens
- Students intending to register or already registered at a South African public university
Funding Includes:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Living allowance
- Book allowance
- Once-off laptop allowance
Additional Benefits:
- Mentorship
- Psychosocial support
- Academic skills development
- Vacation work opportunities
Application Documents:
- South African ID
- Grade 11 report or Matric certificate
- Academic transcript (where applicable)
- Updated CV
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.
You must:
- Be an unemployed South African.
- Be registered or intending to register at a public university.
- Study an undergraduate qualification.
- Meet the required academic standards.
For Grade 12 applicants, you should have:
- Level 6 in Mathematics
- Level 6 in Physical Sciences
- Level 5 in English
Current university students must:
- Achieve an average of at least 65%.
- Have not failed any university module.
The bursary also gives preference to:
- Applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
- NSFAS beneficiaries.
What Does the Bursary Pay For?
One of the biggest advantages of this programme is that it covers nearly every major university expense.
Successful students receive funding for:
- Registration Fees
Your university registration fees are paid directly to the institution.
- Tuition Fees
Full tuition support is provided throughout your studies, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
- Accommodation
Whether you stay in a university residence or approved private accommodation, accommodation costs are supported according to the bursary guidelines.
- Meals
Meal costs are included to ensure students can focus on their studies without worrying about food insecurity.
- Living Allowance
Students receive financial support for everyday living expenses.
- Book Allowance
Textbooks and academic resources are covered through an annual book allowance.
- Laptop Allowance
Students receive a once-off laptop allowance to support digital learning.
More Than Just Financial Support
Unlike many bursaries that simply pay fees, this programme also focuses on student wellbeing and long-term success.
Successful applicants benefit from:
Psychosocial Support
University life can be stressful.
Students have access to support services that assist with emotional wellbeing, resilience and personal challenges.
Mentorship Programme
Experienced mentors help students navigate university life, career planning and professional development.
Onboarding Programme
Students are introduced to the bursary programme through structured orientation activities.
Academic Skills Development
Training is provided in areas such as:
- Study skills
- Academic writing
- Time management
- Personal development
- Professional skills
These additional interventions significantly improve student success rates.
How Are Payments Made?
The bursary has a structured payment process.
The following expenses are paid directly to the university:
- Registration
- Tuition
- University residence accommodation
Students staying in private accommodation receive approved accommodation payments into their own bank accounts.
The following are also paid directly to students:
- Living allowance
- Book allowance
- Laptop allowance
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following before completing the online application:
- South African Identity Document
- Grade 11 report or Matric results
- Academic transcript (if already studying)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Remember:
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE CSIR-SASOL FOUNDATION BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2027 HERE
CREATE AN ATS CV HERE
NEED HELP? ASK EDUPSTAIRS ANYTHING HERE
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application has been submitted:
- You can log in to monitor your application status.
- The CSIR communicates outcomes directly to applicants.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend a virtual interview.
Being shortlisted does not automatically mean you have received the bursary, so prepare carefully for the interview stage.
Responsibilities of Successful Students
Receiving this bursary comes with responsibilities.
Students are expected to:
Submit Academic Results
Academic performance must be reported after every semester.
Complete Work-Back Service
Students must work for the CSIR after graduation for a period equal to the number of years they received funding.
For example:
- Funded for three years = work at CSIR for three years.
Participate in Vacation Work
Students may have opportunities to work on CSIR projects during university holidays for up to six weeks annually, depending on supervisor availability.
This practical experience can significantly strengthen your CV before graduation.
Tips to Improve Your Application
Competition for STEM bursaries is extremely high.
To improve your chances:
- Complete every section of the application form.
- Upload clear certified documents.
- Ensure your CV is updated.
- Double-check your academic records.
- Apply as early as possible.
- Prepare for a virtual interview.
- Maintain strong academic performance.
Remember that this bursary is designed to invest in students who show both academic ability and long-term potential.
Related Articles:
Bursary Application Calendar for South African Students: When to Apply and Never Miss a Deadline
How to Prepare for Bursary Interviews: A Complete Guide for South African Students
What Happens After You Apply for a Bursary? Understanding the Selection Process
How to Find Fully Funded Bursaries in South Africa: A Complete Guide for Students
Common Reasons South African Bursary Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)
NSFAS vs Bursaries vs Scholarships: What Is the Difference?
How to Write a Professional Student CV for Bursary Applications
How to Write a Winning Bursary Motivational Letter (With Examples)
How to Appeal an NSFAS Application Rejection (Step-by-Step Guide) 2026
How to Create a myNSFAS Account for 2026 Applications
How to Check NSFAS Application Status: A Detailed Guide
How to Apply for NSFAS: A Step-by-Step Application Process
Edupstairs Advice
The CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary is one of South Africa’s most comprehensive undergraduate STEM funding opportunities. If you meet the academic requirements, do not wait until the last minute to prepare your documents.
Even if you are already receiving financial assistance elsewhere or are uncertain about your eligibility, carefully read the requirements and submit a complete application if you qualify. Opportunities like this are highly competitive because they provide not only funding but also mentorship, industry exposure and a clear pathway into one of South Africa’s leading scientific research organisations.
Keep copies of all your documents, monitor your application status regularly and continue working hard academically. Strong performance at university can open the door to exciting research and career opportunities with organisations like the CSIR.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this bursary only for university students?
Yes. The bursary supports undergraduate students studying at South African public universities.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. Learners intending to study at a public university may apply if they meet the academic requirements.
- Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Yes. Approved accommodation costs are covered.
- Is a laptop included?
Yes. Successful students receive a once-off laptop allowance.
- Will I need to work for CSIR afterwards?
Yes. Successful bursary recipients are expected to work for the CSIR for a period equal to the number of years they received funding.
- Are university holidays included?
Students may participate in vacation work at the CSIR for up to six weeks each year, subject to supervisor availability.
- How will I know if I have been shortlisted?
Applicants receive communication from the CSIR and can also monitor their application status using their online login details.
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- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
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Disclaimer
This article is intended to summarise the CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary guidelines to help prospective applicants understand the opportunity. Applicants should ensure that all information submitted during the application process is accurate and complete. Final eligibility, selection decisions and bursary conditions remain the responsibility of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Sasol Foundation.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY