South African Grade 12 learners who want to become engineers have a major funding opportunity to consider for the 2027 academic year.
Eskom has opened applications for its Engineering Degree Bursary Programme for the 2027 intake, targeting current Matric learners and young people who completed Matric in 2025 and intend starting their first year of university study in 2027.
The programme covers an unusually broad range of engineering disciplines, including Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Industrial, Mechatronics, Software, Data, Renewable Energy and several other engineering fields.
Applications close on 22 September 2026.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
This opportunity is particularly important for Grade 12 learners because Eskom will consider final Grade 11 results during the application process. However, the final bursary decision will depend on applicants’ 2026 final Matric results.
Before applying, prospective engineering students can also use the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to investigate engineering careers and qualifications, and the Edupstairs University Explorer to research university programmes and admission requirements.
Quick Overview: Eskom Engineering Bursary 2027
| Information | Details |
| Programme | Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme |
| Intake | 2027 |
| Bursary Reference | eskom_bur_006224 |
| Bursary Status | Online |
| Closing Date | 22 September 2026 |
| Target Applicants | Current Matric learners and applicants who matriculated in 2025 |
| Study Level | First-year university studies in 2027 |
| Industry | Electricity, Energy & Water Supply |
| Area of Specialisation | Engineering |
| Citizenship | South African citizens |
| Institution Type | Public universities |
| Minimum English | Level 4 |
| Minimum Pure Mathematics | Level 5 |
| Minimum Physical Science | Level 5 |
| BEng Tech Accepted? | No |
| Other Bursary Allowed? | Applicants should not already hold another bursary |
| Application Method | Online through the Eskom careers portal |
What Is the Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme?
The Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme is intended to support academically capable South African learners who want to pursue university engineering qualifications.
For the 2027 intake, Eskom is specifically targeting prospective first-year university students.
This means the opportunity is not a general bursary for every engineering student already at university.
According to the official advertisement, it is strictly available to:
- current Matric learners who will start university in 2027; or
- people who matriculated in 2025 and will begin their first year of tertiary study in 2027.
Applicants therefore need to pay careful attention to the intake requirement before applying.
Engineering Degrees Supported by Eskom for 2027
Eskom is offering university bursary opportunities across several important engineering disciplines.
The approved qualifications are:
- BEng/BSc Industrial Engineering
- BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering – Heavy Current
- BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering – Light Current
- BEng/BSc Electrical & Computer Engineering
- BEng/BSc Electronic Engineering
- BEng/BSc Mechanical Engineering
- BEng/BSc Mechatronics Engineering
- BEng/BSc Civil Engineering
- BEng/BSc Data Engineering
- BEng/BSc Chemical Engineering
- BEng/BSc Electromechanical Engineering
- BEng/BSc Metallurgy Engineering
- BEng/BSc Software Engineering
- BEng/BSc Measurement Control and Instrumentation
- BEng/BSc Renewable Energy Engineering
This makes the Eskom bursary particularly relevant to learners interested in careers connected to electricity generation, transmission, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, automation, data and industrial systems.
Not sure which engineering field is right for you?
Do not choose an engineering qualification simply because a bursary is available.
Use the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to explore engineering careers and South African qualifications before deciding on your study pathway.
The Explorer brings careers and SAQA qualifications together, allowing prospective students to investigate career areas such as:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Software Development
- ICT and digital careers
- Engineering trades
- Renewable-energy-related pathways
- Industrial and manufacturing careers
Understanding the career first can help you make a better qualification decision.
Important: BEng Tech Qualifications Will NOT Be Considered
This is one of the most important requirements in the Eskom advertisement.
Applications for BEng Tech qualifications will not be considered.
Applicants should therefore not assume that every qualification containing the word “Engineering” qualifies for this bursary.
The Eskom advertisement specifically identifies BEng/BSc engineering degrees within the approved disciplines.
Before applying, check the exact title of the programme appearing on your university application or conditional acceptance letter.
This distinction could prevent applicants from submitting applications for qualifications that fall outside Eskom’s bursary criteria.
Minimum Requirements for the Eskom Bursary
Applicants must meet the following basic requirements.
-
South African Citizenship
You must be a South African citizen.
-
Academic Results
Applicants need either:
- Grade 11 final results; or
- a Grade 12 certificate.
Current Grade 12 learners can therefore apply before receiving their final 2026 Matric results.
-
University Admission
Applicants should have conditional acceptance to study one of the specified engineering disciplines at a public university, if the acceptance is already available.
Do not confuse applying for a bursary with applying to university.
These are separate processes.
If you have not yet researched where you can study engineering, use the Edupstairs University Explorer to explore South African universities, undergraduate programmes, admission requirements, APS information and application resources.
-
No Other Bursary
Applicants should not already be holding another bursary.
If you have submitted applications for several bursaries but have not yet been awarded one, carefully read the applicable terms should you receive multiple offers.
Minimum School Subject Requirements
Eskom has specified minimum achievement levels for three important subjects.
| Subject | Minimum Level | Approximate Percentage Band |
| English | Level 4 | 50–59% |
| Pure Mathematics | Level 5 | 60–69% |
| Physical Science | Level 5 | 60–69% |
The wording Pure Mathematics is important.
Applicants should not assume that Mathematical Literacy satisfies the requirement.
For prospective engineering students, Mathematics and Physical Science are particularly important because university engineering programmes frequently have their own subject and admission requirements.
Meeting Eskom’s minimum bursary threshold also does not automatically mean that you meet the admission requirements for every engineering programme at every university.
University requirements can be higher.
Can You Apply Using Grade 11 Results?
Yes. This is one of the biggest opportunities for current Grade 12 learners.
Eskom states that applicants meeting the requirements using their Grade 11 year-end results can be considered.
However, there is an important condition:
The final decision will depend on your 2026 final Matric results.
In practical terms, a learner who meets the required standard using Grade 11 results should not become complacent during Matric.
Your final Grade 12 performance still matters.
Continue focusing particularly on:
- Pure Mathematics;
- Physical Science;
- English; and
- your overall academic performance.
Conditional University Acceptance
Where available, applicants should have conditional acceptance from a public university to study one of Eskom’s approved engineering qualifications.
The eligible disciplines include Industrial, Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Civil, Data, Chemical, Electromechanical, Metallurgy, Software, Measurement Control and Instrumentation, Renewable Energy and Electrical & Computer Engineering.
Applicants who are still deciding where to study can use the Edupstairs University Explorer to research university study options and admission information.
Remember that a bursary application does not replace your university application.
You should work on both processes.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is particularly suitable for a learner who:
- is a South African citizen;
- is currently completing Matric in 2026 or completed Matric in 2025;
- intends entering first-year university in 2027;
- wants to pursue an approved BEng/BSc engineering degree;
- has at least Level 4 English;
- has at least Level 5 Pure Mathematics;
- has at least Level 5 Physical Science;
- intends studying at a public university;
- does not currently hold another bursary; and
- is genuinely interested in an engineering career.
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.
Bursary programmes can be highly competitive.
Applicants May Have to Complete a Psychometric Assessment
Eskom has indicated that applicants may be subjected to a psychometric assessment.
This is important because academic marks may not necessarily be the only part of the selection process.
Psychometric assessments can be used to assess different attributes depending on the assessment being administered.
Applicants should therefore follow all instructions carefully if Eskom contacts them regarding further assessments.
Do not pay anyone who claims they can provide “official Eskom psychometric answers” or guarantee that you will pass.
Why Engineering Applicants Should Also Explore EWSETA
Eskom operates within South Africa’s electricity and energy environment.
Learners interested in building careers in electricity, energy, renewable energy and water-related sectors should also explore the Edupstairs SETA Platform.
The platform brings together all 21 South African SETAs and more than 1,000 programme and qualification records across multiple sectors.
For Eskom applicants, EWSETA — the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority — is particularly relevant because its sector covers areas including electricity generation, transmission and distribution, renewable energy, water services and related technical skills.
The Edupstairs SETA Platform can also help young people explore:
- bursaries and funding;
- learnerships;
- apprenticeships;
- qualifications;
- Work Integrated Learning opportunities;
- internships;
- skills programmes;
- renewable-energy pathways;
- engineering-related programmes; and
- workplace development opportunities.
This becomes especially useful if you do not receive the Eskom bursary. Engineering and energy careers have several possible education and workplace-development routes.
What About TVET College Engineering?
The Eskom opportunity covered in this article is specifically a university engineering degree bursary, and Eskom explicitly states that BEng Tech applications will not be considered.
It should therefore not be confused with TVET College engineering programmes.
However, learners who are interested in technical, artisan or vocational engineering careers rather than university BEng/BSc degrees can explore the Edupstairs TVET Colleges Explorer.
Edupstairs brings together South Africa’s 50 public TVET Colleges, helping prospective students research:
- engineering programmes;
- NC(V) programmes;
- NATED/Report 191 programmes where applicable;
- occupational qualifications;
- campuses;
- admission requirements;
- application information;
- NSFAS resources; and
- past examination papers.
You can also read the TVET College Applications for 2027: All 50 Public TVET Colleges, Opening & Closing Dates guide if a vocational or artisan engineering pathway may suit you better.
University Engineering vs TVET Engineering: Understand the Difference
Students sometimes use the word “engineering” broadly, but the education pathways can be very different.
The Eskom bursary advertised here targets specified BEng/BSc university degrees.
A TVET engineering pathway may instead lead towards technical, occupational or artisan careers and can involve apprenticeships, workplace training and eventually trade testing depending on the qualification and occupation.
Neither pathway should automatically be regarded as “better.”
The right pathway depends on the career you want.
That is why prospective students should use the Career & Qualification Explorer, University Explorer, TVET Colleges Explorer and SETA Platform together rather than choosing a qualification based only on its name.
How to Apply for the Eskom Engineering Bursary 2027
Applications are completed online through Eskom’s official careers platform here
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before opening the application, confirm:
- citizenship;
- Matric year;
- Mathematics result;
- Physical Science result;
- English result;
- intended engineering qualification; and
- whether your qualification is one of the approved BEng/BSc programmes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Academic Information
Current Matric learners should have their final Grade 11 results available.
Applicants who already completed Matric should prepare their Grade 12 certificate/results.
Step 3: Prepare University Admission Information
If you have already received conditional university acceptance, have the information available for your application.
Step 4: Register or Sign In
Access Eskom’s official careers portal and create an applicant profile if necessary.
Step 5: Search Using the Bursary Reference
Use: eskom_bur_006224
Always confirm that the title displayed is:
Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme – Grade 12 Applicants (2027 intake)
Step 6: Complete the Application
Enter your information accurately.
Do not inflate marks, change academic results or submit false information.
Step 7: Upload Requested Documents
Upload all documents requested by Eskom’s application system.
Make sure every document is:
- readable;
- complete;
- correctly uploaded; and
- associated with the correct application section.
Step 8: Submit Before 22 September 2026
Do not wait until the final evening.
Application portals can experience heavy traffic, internet interruptions or document-upload problems close to deadlines.
Apply through Eskom
Apply for the Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme 2027 on the official Eskom careers portal
Closing Date: 22 September 2026
What Happens After You Apply?
Submitting an application does not mean you have automatically received the bursary.
Applications will be assessed against Eskom’s requirements and selection process.
Applicants may also be required to complete a psychometric assessment.
Eskom states that applicants who have not been contacted within 28 days after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful.
Because applications close on 22 September 2026, applicants should continue monitoring their email, telephone and applicant profile after submission.
At the same time, continue applying for other bursaries.
Never rely on only one funding application.
Other Engineering Bursaries to Consider
Engineering applicants should create a bursary portfolio rather than depending entirely on Eskom.
Several other engineering-related bursaries have already been covered on Edupstairs.
Sappi Undergraduate Engineering Bursary Programme 2027
The Sappi Undergraduate Engineering Bursary Programme for 2027 supports fields including:
- Chemical Engineering;
- Civil Engineering;
- Electrical Engineering;
- Industrial Engineering;
- Mechanical Engineering;
- Mechatronics Engineering; and
- Forestry and Wood Science.
This is particularly relevant because several Sappi engineering fields overlap with Eskom’s approved disciplines.
Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary Programme 2027
Students interested in engineering connected to infrastructure, water and environmental systems should also investigate the Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary Programme for 2027.
The programme includes fields such as:
- Civil Engineering;
- Electrical Engineering – Heavy Current;
- Mechanical Engineering;
- Environmental Science;
- Hydrology;
- Water Resource Management; and
- other water-related disciplines.
CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
Students interested in STEM can also read about the CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme for 2027.
The programme is focused on developing students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
Siemens Bursary Programme 2027
Technology-focused engineering students should also explore the Siemens Bursary Programme for 2027, particularly those interested in engineering, electronics, mechatronics, computer science and technology careers.
Valterra Platinum Engineering Bursary Programme 2027
Another engineering-specific funding option covered by Edupstairs is the Valterra Platinum Engineering Bursary Programme 2027, which supports selected engineering disciplines.
Vodacom External Undergraduate Bursary Programme 2027
Students whose interests overlap engineering, technology and digital careers can also investigate the Vodacom External Undergraduate Bursary Programme 2027.
The programme supports selected technology, engineering, science, business and innovation-related study areas.
PSG Financial Services Bursary Programme 2027
Applicants who will later require funding for advanced studies can also familiarise themselves with the PSG Financial Services Bursary Programme 2027, which includes selected science and engineering qualifications for eligible final-year and postgraduate students.
Do Not Apply for Only One Bursary
This point deserves emphasis.
Even if you meet every Eskom requirement, there is no guarantee that you will receive the bursary.
Competitive bursary programmes may receive applications from many academically strong learners.
A better strategy is to apply for every legitimate bursary for which you genuinely qualify.
Think of the process like university applications: having several valid options reduces the risk of reaching 2027 with university admission but no funding.
However, remember that Eskom states applicants should not already be holding another bursary. If you ultimately receive more than one bursary offer, carefully review the terms before accepting funding.
A Smart 2027 Engineering Application Strategy
If you are currently in Matric and want to study engineering in 2027, your application strategy should have several components.
First: Choose your engineering career.
Use the Career & Qualification Explorer to investigate career and qualification pathways.
Second: Research universities.
Use the University Explorer and individual university resources to compare engineering programmes and admission requirements.
Third: Submit university applications.
Do not wait for a bursary outcome before dealing with university admission.
Fourth: Apply for multiple legitimate bursaries.
Include Eskom and other bursaries whose requirements you genuinely meet.
Fifth: Keep your Matric marks strong.
Eskom can initially consider Grade 11 results, but the final decision depends on your 2026 Matric results.
Sixth: Research alternative pathways.
If your results do not meet BEng/BSc admission requirements, investigate appropriate alternatives through the TVET Colleges Explorer and SETA Platform.
Having an alternative pathway does not mean abandoning your career ambitions. It means making informed decisions based on the opportunities available to you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid several potentially costly mistakes:
- applying for BEng Tech when Eskom explicitly excludes it;
- confusing Mathematical Literacy with Pure Mathematics;
- assuming Eskom’s minimum marks automatically satisfy university admission requirements;
- failing to apply separately to universities;
- uploading unreadable academic results;
- entering incorrect information;
- waiting until 22 September to begin the application;
- assuming Grade 11 results guarantee the final bursary;
- ignoring emails or calls after applying;
- paying someone who claims they can secure an Eskom bursary;
- applying for only one bursary; or
- abandoning other funding applications while waiting for Eskom.
Tools you may find useful:
- SETA Platform
- RDP / BNG Housing Eligibility Checker
- SASSA Grant Eligibility Checker
- SAPS / Metro / Traffic / DCS Eligibility Checker
- Youth Employment Eligibility Checker
- SA Bursary & NSFAS Eligibility Checker
- UIF Benefits Eligibility Checker and Payment Estimator
View Other Employment Opportunities here
Need Help?
Edupstairs Advice
If you are in Matric, meet the Mathematics and Physical Science requirements and genuinely want to become an engineer, this is an opportunity worth applying for.
But approach it as part of a complete 2027 study plan, not as an isolated bursary application.
Your immediate priorities should be:
University application + bursary applications + strong final Matric results.
The Grade 11 provision gives current Matric learners an opportunity to apply now, but your 2026 final results remain critical.
Also pay close attention to the qualification name.
The phrase “BEng Tech qualifications will not be considered” is not a minor footnote. It is a specific eligibility restriction.
Before submitting, compare the exact qualification on your university application with Eskom’s approved list.
Most importantly, do not stop searching for funding after applying to Eskom.
Engineering students should also investigate the Sappi Engineering Bursary, DWS Bursary, CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary, Siemens Bursary and other funding opportunities published on Edupstairs.
One application gives you one chance.
Several well-targeted applications give you several chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
When does the Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary 2027 close?
Applications close on 22 September 2026.
-
What is the Eskom bursary reference number?
The reference is: eskom_bur_006224
-
Can current Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. The programme specifically targets current Matric learners who intend beginning first-year tertiary studies in 2027.
-
Can I apply using my Grade 11 results?
Yes. Eskom will consider Grade 11 year-end results that meet the requirements. However, the final bursary decision will depend on your 2026 final Matric results.
-
What Mathematics mark is required?
Applicants need at least Level 5 in Pure Mathematics, corresponding to the 60–69% achievement band.
-
What Physical Science mark is required?
Applicants need at least Level 5 in Physical Science, corresponding to the 60–69% achievement band.
-
What English mark is required?
Applicants need at least Level 4 in English, corresponding to the 50–59% achievement band.
-
Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
The advertisement specifies Pure Mathematics Level 5. Applicants with Mathematical Literacy should therefore not assume that they meet this requirement.
-
Does Eskom accept BEng Tech qualifications?
No. Eskom explicitly states that applications for BEng Tech qualifications will not be considered for this bursary opportunity.
-
Can someone who matriculated in 2025 apply?
Yes, provided the applicant will start first-year tertiary studies in 2027 and meets the other requirements.
-
Can current university students apply?
The advertised opportunity is specifically for current Matric learners or people who matriculated in 2025 and will begin their first year of tertiary study in 2027.
-
Do I need university acceptance?
Conditional acceptance to study an approved engineering discipline at a public university should be provided if available.
-
Can I hold another bursary?
Eskom states that applicants should not be holding another bursary.
-
Will applicants have to write an assessment?
Possibly. Eskom states that applicants may be subjected to a psychometric assessment.
-
What if Eskom does not contact me?
Eskom states that if you have not been contacted within 28 days after the closing date, you should accept that your application was unsuccessful.
-
Are applicants with disabilities allowed to apply?
Yes. Eskom specifically encourages candidates with disabilities to apply.
-
Where can I research engineering careers before choosing a degree?
Use the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to research South African careers and qualifications.
-
Where can I compare universities?
Use the Edupstairs University Explorer to explore university courses, admission requirements and application information.
-
Where can I explore alternative engineering and artisan pathways?
Use the Edupstairs TVET Colleges Explorer for vocational study options and the Edupstairs SETA Platform for learnerships, apprenticeships, qualifications, bursaries and workplace-development pathways.
-
Where do I apply for the Eskom bursary?
Applications must be submitted through the official Eskom careers platform.
Apply for the Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme 2027 here
Important Closing Date
Applications close: 22 September 2026
Prospective applicants should apply as soon as possible rather than waiting until the deadline.
You can also:
- View latest Internships
- View latest Learnerships
- View Latest Bursaries
- View latest Government jobs
- View latest Company Vacancies
- View latest Municipality vacancies
- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
Application Outcome Tracker (anonymous)
No names collected. This helps future applicants understand real-world timelines.
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not Eskom and does not administer, select candidates for or award the Eskom Engineering Degree Bursary Programme.
Edupstairs does not guarantee bursary selection, university admission or funding.
Requirements, selection procedures and programme conditions are determined by Eskom and may be amended by the bursary provider.
Never pay an individual who claims that they can guarantee you an Eskom bursary.
Always submit applications through official channels and verify important information before providing personal documents.
Official closing date: 22 September 2026.
Editorial Integrity
Edupstairs has reviewed the official Eskom bursary advertisement and presents this article as an opportunity explainer to help South African learners understand the eligibility criteria, study fields and application process.
Where Edupstairs provides career-planning, university, TVET, SETA or bursary-application guidance, this should be understood as additional applicant guidance rather than an additional Eskom requirement.
Applicants should always use the official Eskom advertisement and application portal as the final authority when submitting their applications.
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