CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary South Africa 2027

WHAT FIELDS OF STUDY DOES THE CSIR BURSARY COVER?

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, are inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2027 academic year.

Bursaries will be awarded for undergraduate studies, in the following fields, which have been deemed a priority by the CSIR:

  • Chemical Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Electronic Engineering
  • Genetics / Cell Biology
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Information Technology
  • Material Flow Analysis
  • Mechatronic Engineering
  • Process Engineering / Life cycle assessment
  • System Engineering

The CSIR bursary is merit based and is aimed at full-time, unemployed students who are pursuing qualifications in areas that are deemed a priority by the CSIR (research, technology development and innovation as well as corporate/support areas). The bursary aims to attract suitably qualified applicants, and encourages females, black students and those living with disabilities to apply.

** RELATED BURSARIES **

WHAT EXPENSES AND OTHER BENEFITS DOES THE CSIR BURSARY COVER?

The bursary will provide cover for the following expenses: registration fees, tuition fees, books, accommodation, living allowances and a once-off laptop allowance.

Students will also receive the following benefits:

  • Psychosocial support (e.g. academic and psychological support)
  • Student wellness programme
  • Vacation work opportunities, of up to 6 weeks per annum
  • Opportunity to work on real-life projects that address socioeconomic challenges through your research (CSIR co-supervision)
  • Potential work placement opportunities at the CSIR and other related organisations
  • Awards for top performing students – CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and other gifts
  • Interview skills training for final year students, to prepare for the working world
  • Onboarding session and a chance to meet the CSIR and Sasol Foundation team
  • Possible pairing with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme

WHAT IS THE SELECTION PROCESS AND SERVICE CONTRACT FOR THE CSIR BURSARY?

After graduation, bursary recipients will be required to work for CSIR and Sasol Foundation – one year of employment for every year of funding received.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to attend an interview – candidates who do not receive any feedback, should regard their bursary application as unsuccessful.

www.zabursaries.co.za is committed to keeping you up to date with the latest bursary opportunities, and this article covers all details about the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary.

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE CSIR BURSARY?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):

Current Matric students:

  • You must be a South African citizen
  • You must be unemployed
  • You must be currently in Matric
  • You must intend on studying full-time towards an undergraduate degree qualification, within one of the fields of study listed above, in 2027
  • You must intend on enrolling at a public university in South Africa
  • You must have achieved the following minimum results in Matric:
    • a minimum of level 5 for English
    • a minimum of level 6 for Mathematics
    • a minimum of level 6 for Physical Science

Current University students:

  • You must be a South African citizen
  • You must be unemployed
  • You must be studying full-time towards a qualification within one of the fields of study listed above
  • You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%
  • You must have passed all the registered courses for the completed study period at the university

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR THE CSIR BURSARY?

Applications must be submitted online at: CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2027

Applicants must read the CSIR-SASOL Bursary Guidelines 2027 (.pdf) before applying.

Applicants must Register an account, before they can Login and apply.

Enter “www.zabursaries.co.za” in the field asking how you heard about the CSIR-SASOL Foundation bursary.

WHAT DOCUMENTS MUST I SUBMIT FOR THE CSIR BURSARY?

Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your online application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified):

  • ID document (certified copy)
  • Grade 11 final year results and Matric latest results, if currently in Matric
  • Latest academic record, if currently studying
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae

WHEN IS THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE CSIR BURSARY?

15 September 2026.

(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)

HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER?

For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the CSIR directly:
Bursary Programme team
Tel: 012 841 2616
Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za

Please do NOT contact the CSIR if this bursary has already closed. View our other bursaries open for application here: https://www.zabursaries.co.za/bursary-news/

WHAT DOES THE CSIR DO?

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is one of South Africa’s leading scientific research and technology development organisations. Established in 1945, the CSIR is a public entity operating under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). Its role is to conduct multidisciplinary research, develop innovative technologies, and provide scientific solutions that support South Africa’s economic growth, industrial competitiveness, and social development.

Headquartered on its main campus in Pretoria, the CSIR employs thousands of researchers, engineers, technicians and support specialists who work across a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines. The organisation collaborates with government departments, universities, industry partners and international institutions to address national and global challenges through research and innovation.

The CSIR’s work is focused on several strategic research areas, including advanced manufacturing and industry, digital technologies, health innovation, energy, the built environment, natural resources and the environment, and defence and security. Through these focus areas, the organisation develops practical technologies and research-driven solutions that improve public services, strengthen industries, and contribute to sustainable development across South Africa and beyond.

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This bursary listing was last updated in July 2026.

SA Bursaries wishes you the best of luck with your application! Please remember to SHARE this page with anyone you know who may be in need of bursary funding.