Quick Info Box
- Organization: Sasol Limited
- Location: South Africa (Various Universities)
- Deadline: 17 May 2026
- Eligibility: South African citizens under 30 years old
- Funded/Paid: Fully Funded (Tuition, resources, and developmental support)
Introduction
Sasol continues to invest in the future of South African youth through structured bursaries, graduate programmes, and skills development initiatives. These opportunities are designed to support academically strong individuals pursuing careers in engineering, science, and technology while addressing the country’s long-term economic and industrial needs.
About the Program
The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is a flagship initiative that offers a comprehensive support package designed to see students through their entire academic journey. Beyond just paying for tuition, the program focuses on holistic development, providing students with the learning resources and professional guidance necessary to thrive in a competitive industrial landscape. It serves as a critical pipeline for Sasol’s talent acquisition, ensuring a steady flow of highly skilled professionals into the energy and chemical sectors.
This program is specifically targeted at students pursuing full-time university degrees at recognized South African institutions. By combining financial assistance with workplace readiness training, Sasol ensures that its beneficiaries are not only academic achievers but also industry-ready professionals. Upon successful completion of their studies, graduates are often integrated into Sasol’s structured graduate development programmes, offering a direct pathway from the classroom to a global corporate career.
Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Must be under the age of 30 at the time of application.
- Registration for full-time studies at an accredited South African university.
- Intention to study a degree programme (Diplomas and distance learning like UNISA are not eligible).
- Strong academic performance in Grade 11 and Grade 12 (specifically in Mathematics and Science).
- Willingness to enter into a work-back or payback agreement upon graduation.
- Only one application per person is permitted.
What You’ll Gain
- Full Tuition Coverage: Comprehensive payment of university fees throughout the study period.
- Learning Resources: Allowances for textbooks, laptops, and other essential study materials.
- Developmental Guidance: Access to mentorship and professional coaching from Sasol experts.
- Career Pathway: Potential placement in the Sasol Graduate Development Programme after graduation.
- Industry Exposure: Opportunities for vacation work to gain practical, on-site experience.
- Specialized Training: Exposure to innovation in energy transition and the circular economy.
Expert Insights
Why This Opportunity Matters
In the South African context, Sasol is more than just a company. It is a cornerstone of the national economy. Securing a Sasol bursary is often a life-changing event that provides total financial freedom during university years. Beyond the money, the latest scholarships from Sasol carry immense weight on a CV. In an environment where youth unemployment remains high, being “Sasol-bred” provides a graduate with immediate credibility and a professional network that spans the globe.
Is This Programme Worth It?
The ROI on a Sasol bursary is exceptionally high. Unlike many other corporate bursaries that only cover tuition, Sasol invests in “workplace readiness.” This means that by the time you graduate, you already understand corporate culture, safety protocols, and technical standards. The work-back obligation is actually a benefit. While some see it as a constraint, it is effectively a guaranteed job offer in a country where entry-level roles are hard to find.
Who Should NOT Apply?
If you are planning to study part-time or through a distance-learning institution like UNISA, this program is not for you. Sasol requires full-time, contact-based learning to ensure students are immersed in the university environment. Additionally, if you are pursuing a dual or hybrid degree that is not strictly aligned with engineering or pure science, you may not fit the criteria. This fellowship is for those committed to the “hard sciences” and technical fields.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
One of the biggest pitfalls is submitting incomplete documentation or providing inaccurate Grade 11 results. The selection committee uses these results as a primary filter, so any discrepancy can lead to immediate disqualification. Another common mistake is applying for a diploma instead of a degree. Sasol is very strict about supporting B.Eng and B.Sc pathways. Lastly, many students wait until the last week to apply, often missing the deadline due to technical glitches or missing ID copies.
How to Apply
Verify Your Eligibility and Field of Study Check the list of approved degrees, including Chemical, Civil, or Mining Engineering, Data Science, and Chemistry. Ensure your degree is a full-time university programme.
Gather Your Required Documents Prepare clear, scanned copies of your South African ID, your Grade 11 final results, or your latest university transcript if you are already a student.
Access the Official Portal Navigate to the Sasol bursaries website. Note that applications sent via email or late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Complete the Online Application Form Fill in all sections accurately. Ensure your contact details are correct, as shortlisting notifications are usually sent via SMS or email.
Submit Your Online Application Double-check all entries before hitting submit. Once sent, you will typically receive a confirmation message. Keep this for your records.
Apply Now Button: Official Sasol Bursary Portal
FAQ Section
Can I apply if I am already in my second year of university? Yes, Sasol accepts applications from both matriculants and current undergraduate and postgraduate students, provided they meet the academic and age requirements.
Does Sasol cover postgraduate studies? Yes, Sasol supports M.Sc, M.Eng, and PhD studies, particularly in areas like Fluid Dynamics, Catalysis, and Cyber Security.
What happens if I fail a subject while on the bursary? Bursaries are awarded conditionally. Failure to maintain a high level of academic performance may result in the withdrawal of the bursary or a requirement to pay back the funds.
Is there a specific contact for application issues? You can reach out to the support team at 086 010 6235 or email berlyne.rasool@adcorpgroup.com for technical assistance with your application.
Global Youth Hub Advice
When applying for international internships or local global training programmes, your academic record is your first handshake with the employer. For the Sasol bursary, we recommend that you treat your application like a professional project. Ensure your “Mentor Moment” is captured in how you present your career goals. Sasol isn’t just looking for high marks. They are looking for the next generation of innovators who will lead South Africa’s energy transition. Stay focused, be meticulous, and ensure you submit well before the May 17 deadline to avoid the last-minute rush.
