CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and eager to make an impact in research, innovation, or industry? The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open, offering exceptional students the chance to pursue their studies with full financial support. This collaboration between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the SASOL Foundation aims to develop the next generation of highly skilled professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s growth in science, engineering, and sustainable development.

The CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance covering tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, and living allowances. Beyond financial aid, successful applicants gain access to mentorship, career guidance, and potential opportunities for research exposure or workplace integration with leading scientists and industry experts.

By applying for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2026/2027, students position themselves for both academic success and career readiness in critical fields needed for South Africa’s development.

In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.

Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026

Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026

Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026

Keep reading to learn more about the eligibility requirements, priority study fields, application process, and closing date for the CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Programme 2026/2027.

About CSIR-SASOL Foundation

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), established in 1945, is South Africa’s leading research and development organisation. It operates under the Department of Science and Innovation and is the largest R&D body in Africa, accounting for about 10% of the continent’s total research budget.

The Sasol Foundation, launched in 2008, was created to improve and transform education in South Africa, with a strong focus on STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Together, CSIR and Sasol Foundation are committed to building future leaders in science and innovation.

About CSIR–Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2026/2027

Fields Covered

The CSIR, in partnership with the Sasol Foundation, invites students to apply for their 2026 bursary programme.

Bursaries are available for undergraduate studies in the following fields:

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
Systems Engineering

This is a merit-based bursary, aimed at full-time, unemployed students pursuing qualifications in priority fields. The programme especially encourages females, black students, and students living with disabilities to apply.

What The Bursary Covers

The bursary provides full financial support, including:

Registration and tuition fees
Prescribed books
Accommodation and living allowance
A once-off laptop allowance

Additional benefits include:

Academic and psychosocial support
Student wellness programmes
Vacation work (up to 6 weeks per year)
Opportunities to work on real-life projects (with CSIR co-supervision)
Potential work placements at CSIR or partner organisations
Awards for top-performing students
Interview skills training for final-year students
Onboarding session with CSIR and Sasol Foundation teams
Mentorship opportunities with senior professionals

Service Contract & Selection

After graduation, bursary recipients must work for the CSIR and Sasol Foundation. One year of employment for every year of bursary funding received.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. If you don’t receive feedback, your application should be considered unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements for CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2026/2027

To apply, you must meet these minimum requirements:

Be a South African citizen
Be currently in Matric or have already completed Matric
Achieve at least: Level 5 in English, Level 6 in Mathematics, and Level 6 in Physical Science in Matric
Be studying or intend to study full-time towards a qualification in one of the approved fields, in 2026
Be accepted or registered at a recognised public university in South Africa
Maintain a strong academic record (minimum 65% overall average and all courses passed, if already studying)
Be unemployed

How to Apply for CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary 2026/2027

Applications must be submitted online. Click here to access CSIR–Sasol Foundation Bursary Application 2026

You’ll need to register an account before logging in to apply.

Required supporting documents (clear copies must be uploaded):

Certified copy of your ID document
Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results (if still in Matric)
Latest academic record (if studying at university)
Updated CV

Closing Date for CSIR-SASOL Foundation Bursary Application 2026/2027

Application Deadline: 29 August

Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.

Contact Details of CSIR-SASOL Foundation

For queries, contact the CSIR Bursary Programme Team:

Tel: 012 841 2616
Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za