Sasol South African Mainstream Bursary Programme – Apply By 17 May 2026

The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme offers a comprehensive support package covering tuition, learning resources, and developmental guidance throughout the study period. It is specifically targeted at students pursuing full-time university degrees in engineering and science fields.

• Applications open: 1 April – 17 May (annually)

• Study level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate

• Study mode: Full-time at a recognised South African university

• Obligation: Includes work-back and/or payback requirement

Upon successful completion of studies, graduates may be considered for employment within Sasol through structured graduate development programmes.

Fields of Study

Undergraduate Programmes (B.Eng. / B.Sc.)

Applicants may pursue degrees in the following disciplines:

• Chemical Engineering

• Chemistry (up to Honours level)

• Civil Engineering

• Data  Science:

  • Computer Science

  • Mathematics

  • Operations Research

  • Statistics

• Electrical Engineering

• Electronic Engineering

• Geology (up to Honours level)

• Industrial Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Metallurgy / Metallurgical Engineering (Honours required)

• Mining Engineering

University of Technology (B.Eng. Tech.)

• Mine Surveying

Postgraduate Studies (M.Sc. / M.Eng. / PhD.)

Sasol supports advanced research in science and engineering to meet both internal skills demand and national development priorities. Postgraduate bursaries focus on innovation aligned with energy transition and circular economy goals.

Key research areas include:

• Chemical Engineering:

  • Fluid Dynamics

  • Process Modelling

  • Reactor Technology

  • Separation Technology

  • Thermodynamics

  • Mathematical & Statistical Modelling

• Chemistry:

  • Analytical Chemistry (e.g., spectroscopy, gas chromatography)

  • Catalysis and Polymer Science

  • Environmental Science (water, waste, air quality, dispersion modelling)

• Cyber Security

• Data Science: Applied Mathematics and Statistics

Applicants are not required to submit a full research proposal but must demonstrate a clear understanding of their intended study area. Final research topics are developed collaboratively with academic supervisors and Sasol experts.

Science

Graduate and Development Programmes

Sasol offers structured pathways for skills development and career entry, including:

• Graduate Development Programme

• Technician Development Programme (TDP)

• Vacation Work Programme (for non-bursary students)

• Sasol YES Programme (Youth Employment Service initiative)

These programmes are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry experience.

Key Requirements and Conditions

Applicants must meet strict eligibility and compliance criteria:

• Must be South African citizens

• Must be under 30 years of age at the time of application

• Must pursue full-time studies at an accredited university

• Must apply for degree programmes only (no diplomas)

• Must not enrol in:

  • Distance-learning institutions (e.g., UNISA)

  • Dual or hybrid degree programmes

Additional conditions include:

• Only one application per applicant is permitted

• Submission of accurate and complete information is mandatory

• Any misrepresentation may result in immediate disqualification or termination

• Applications are assessed competitively based on academic performance and Sasol’s business needs

Application and Selection Process

The selection process is highly competitive due to the limited number of bursaries available. Shortlisting is based on:

• Academic results (e.g., Grade 11 results for matric applicants)

• Alignment with Sasol’s strategic needs

• Overall candidate competitiveness

Important notes:

• Bursaries are awarded conditionally until final academic results are confirmed

• Failure to maintain performance levels may result in withdrawal of the bursary

• Incomplete or incorrect applications are automatically disqualified

Application Guidelines

Applicants must adhere to the following:

• Submit applications before the closing date

• Ensure all required documentation is included

• Apply only through the official Sasol bursary website

• Late or email submissions will not be accepted

• Applications from non-South African citizens will not be considered

For application support:

• Contact: Berlyne Rasool

• Email: berlyne.rasool@adcorpgroup.com

• Phone: 086 010 6235

Conclusion

Sasol’s youth development initiatives represent a strategic investment in South Africa’s future workforce. By offering financial support, practical training, and career pathways, the programmes aim to cultivate highly skilled professionals capable of contributing to national growth and innovation.

Prospective applicants who meet the criteria and demonstrate strong academic potential are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to build a sustainable and impactful career.