Many students come to South Africa each and every year to look for new and exciting opportunities, including opportunities in Engineering of course! However, many face financial barriers that will potentially hinder their academic progress and also possibly limit their future career prospects. Thankfully, both South African companies and organisations, as well as the South African government, provide a number of grants and bursaries which can support deserving students who would otherwise struggle to pay for their studies.

South Africa is a country known for helping its citizens with a number of grants and schemes, such as the SASSA grant, in order to help boost the local economy. In this blog post, we will look at some of the most important engineering grants and bursaries in South Africa. We will also look at how to apply for funding, what the requirements are, and how this support can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

Bursary Schemes for students

Eskom is one of the largest Energy suppliers in South Africa. It is also therefore a key employer of engineers within the country. The Eskom bursary scheme which provides financial aid to students in South Africa who are enrolling in an engineering program. This includes civil, electrical, mechanical or industrial engineering programs. In order to be considered for the Eskom bursary scheme, students must show a minimum of at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical science. Students who come from historically disadvantaged backgrounds are also given priority. However, if accepted for the bursary, it will help to cover tuition, accommodation, as well as a monthly allowance for living costs.

The NSFAS bursary scheme (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) - NSFAS is one of the largest schemes for students in South Africa. The organisation manages a number of funding programs for students looking to progress into tertiary education. They offer both grants and loans for students who meet their criteria. Again, priority is given to students that are from disadvantaged backgrounds as well as those with the strongest academic records. These schemes help to cover tuition, accommodation and food costs for successful applicants.

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship - The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation mission statement is that it invests in the education and future development of individuals that show entrepreneurial potential within South Africa. It supports the potential future leaders of South Africa by providing financial support for tuition at a tertiary education level as well as helping to fund personal development. The foundation helps to cover the cost of undergraduate and postgraduate studies. As well as financial support, they offer mentorship, leadership development, and entrepreneurial training. In order to apply for the Allan Orbis fellowship, you must have completed your Grade 12 studies and achieved a minimum of 70% in Maths and English.

The Thuthuka Bursary Fund - The Thuthuka Bursary Fund is a program of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) that provides funding for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying accounting, commerce, and science-related degrees. The program includes academic support, mentorship, and career guidance. Applicants must be South African citizens with a minimum 60% average and a specific focus on Accounting.

The Sibanye-Stillwater Bursary Program - Sibanye-Stillwater is a leading mining company in South Africa with a strong commitment to social investment and community development. The Sibanye-Stillwater Bursary Program supports students who are pursuing degrees in engineering, mining, and other related fields. Applicants must have a minimum of 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science, and preference is given to students from local communities around Sibanye-Stillwater's operations. Successful applicants receive funding for tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.

In Conclusion

Even just by looking at the selection of great opportunities listed above it is easy to see why South Africa is such a great choice for those looking to progress their career in Engineering. These programs and fellowships provide a mixture in financial aid and personal development support. If you come from a disadvantaged background or are struggling with the financial aspect of education, there are options out there providing you are willing to put in the time to make the application.

Whether you're interested in civil, electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, there's likely a grant or bursary scheme that can help you achieve your goals.

Remember these applications do take some time and effort in order to make sure you complete all the necessary details and put forward a compelling case as to why you are the right candidate. Make sure to set the deadlines for the schemes you are interested in and try to submit your application ahead of time just in case any issues arise in order to increase your likelihood of being accepted.