At a time when many South African students are struggling to afford university, the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme opens a window of financial help that could change your future. Applications open on 1 August 2026 and close on 23 August 2026 – you have only a few weeks to act.
What the Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme offers
Sasol, one of South Africa’s largest integrated energy and chemical companies, runs a bursary programme that funds full‑time undergraduate studies at public universities or universities of technology. The programme supports both STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and selected non‑STEM courses. In addition, a separate Sasol Mining Fence‑line Bursary runs from 24 August to 13 September 2026 for students from qualifying mining communities.
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
- South African citizen by birth
- First‑year undergraduate student (full‑time)
- Intending to study at a public South African university or University of Technology (UNISA not accepted)
- Age ≤ 25 years at the time of application
- Matric completed within the last year, or you are in your final matric year and will start university the following year
- Household income ≤ R800 000 per year (proof required)
- Good academic record – at least 60 % average for those already in university; higher marks (70‑79 %) in Mathematics and Physical Sciences for engineering or science degrees
What you receive – benefits
- Full tuition, accommodation, books and travel costs for the duration of the degree
- Academic support and mentorship programmes
- Development opportunities such as workshops and networking events
- Potential graduate‑development or work‑back placements, depending on the specific bursary
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the official portal: www.sasolbursaries.com.
- Create an account and fill in the online application form.
- Upload all required documents (see list below).
- Submit the application before 23 August 2026.
- If you experience technical problems, call the Sasol bursary help line on 086 010 6235.
Documents you will need
- South African ID copy
- Matric certificate and full academic transcript
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a public university (or offer letter)
- Proof of permanent residential address
- Household income documents (e.g., tax returns, payslips)
- Any additional certificates required for your chosen programme
Tips from SETA SA to strengthen your application
- Apply early. System traffic spikes close to the deadline.
- Check every page of your transcript. Incomplete uploads are a common cause for delays.
- Gather income documents now. Financial verification is part of the selection.
- Choose the right bursary. STEM students apply for the Foundation STEM bursary; non‑STEM applicants must belong to one of the special groups (children of Sasol employees, Khanyisa shareholders, or fence‑line communities); mining students should look at the Fence‑line programme.
- Read the work‑back clause. Some bursaries require you to work for Sasol after graduation.
Important conditions you must meet
- Only public South African universities are funded (UNISA excluded).
- University of Technology qualifications are funded only for Mine Surveying.
- No diploma programmes are covered.
- Full‑time study is mandatory.
- Psychometric assessments and interviews may be required.
- You must be able to complete the degree within five years.
- Hybrid or combined degree programmes are not eligible.
Selection process
- Online application submission
- Academic screening
- Household income verification
- Eligibility check
- Psychometric assessment (if shortlisted)
- Interview (where applicable)
- Final decision – results expected by the end of November 2026
Frequently asked questions
When do applications open?
1 August 2026.
When do applications close?
23 August 2026.
Are diploma studies eligible?
No. Only degree programmes are funded.
Can UNISA students apply?
No. UNISA is not an approved institution for this bursary.
Is Mathematical Literacy accepted for engineering or science courses?
No. You must have Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics).
Are postgraduate bursaries available?
Not for the 2027 academic year under the Foundation programme. The separate Sasol Mainstream programme previously offered postgraduate options, but it is currently closed.
What is the household income limit?
Combined annual household income must not exceed R800 000.
Will there be an interview?
Shortlisted candidates may be asked to complete psychometric tests and attend an interview.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be younger than 25 years at the time of application.
When will I receive a response?
Applicants should be notified of the outcome by the end of November 2026.
Take the next step
If you meet the criteria, start gathering your documents now and submit your application as early as possible. This bursary could remove the financial barrier to your degree and open doors to a career in a high‑growth industry.
