Engineering and technology are at the heart of South Africa’s economic development and infrastructure growth. With the rapid advancement of digital technologies and the continuous need for qualified engineers, the country has prioritized funding opportunities for students pursuing qualifications in these fields. If you’re planning to study Computer Science, Software Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar fields, you’re in luck — numerous bursaries are available to support your journey.
This blog post explores the top bursaries specifically targeted at students studying engineering and technology-related qualifications in South Africa, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Why Engineering and Technology Are Heavily Funded
South Africa’s development goals rely heavily on innovation, digital transformation, and infrastructure. Unfortunately, the country suffers from a shortage of skilled professionals in the science, engineering, and technology (SET) sectors.
To close this gap, both public and private institutions offer bursaries that not only cover tuition but also include allowances for accommodation, meals, books, and in some cases, internships or guaranteed employment.
Top Bursaries for Technology and Engineering Courses in South Africa
1. Transnet Bursary Programme
Fields Funded:
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Electrical Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Civil Engineering
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Industrial Engineering
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Information Technology (IT)
Who Can Apply:
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South African citizens
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Matriculants with strong Maths and Science results
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Current university students in relevant fields
Benefits:
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Full coverage of tuition, accommodation, meals, and textbooks
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Vacation work and internship opportunities
Website: www.transnet.net
2. Eskom Bursaries
Eskom is one of the biggest funders of engineering studies in SA.
Fields Funded:
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Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
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Mechanical Engineering
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Civil Engineering
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IT and Computer Engineering
Who Can Apply:
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Grade 12 learners or current students with high academic performance
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Must be studying or intending to study at a recognized university or university of technology
Benefits:
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Tuition, books, residence fees, meals
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Vacation work during university holidays
Website: www.eskom.co.za
3. Sasol Bursary Scheme
Fields Funded:
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Chemical Engineering
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Electrical Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Computer Science
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Information Technology
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Electronic Engineering
Who Can Apply:
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High-performing matriculants and university students
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Must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence
Benefits:
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Comprehensive financial support
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Mentorship and internship programs
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Career opportunities at Sasol
Website: www.sasolbursaries.com
4. Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) – Scarce Skills Bursary
This bursary is often administered through the National Skills Fund and supports studies in scarce and critical skill areas.
Fields Funded:
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All branches of engineering
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ICT and computer systems
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Robotics, software, and digital development
Who Can Apply:
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South African citizens
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Must be accepted at a public university or TVET college
Benefits:
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Tuition and accommodation support
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Book allowances
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Travel and meal support for rural-based students
Website: Often advertised via www.dhet.gov.za or www.careerhelp.org.za
5. Huawei South Africa Bursary Programme
Fields Funded:
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Information Technology
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Computer Science
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Telecommunications
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Software Engineering
Who Can Apply:
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South African students currently studying or planning to study in ICT fields
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Strong academic results required
Benefits:
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Tuition and equipment support
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Opportunity to join Huawei graduate programmes
Website: www.huawei.com/za
6. Investec Tertiary Bursary
While open to a broader range of fields, Investec specifically looks for students interested in Computer Science and Engineering disciplines.
Fields Funded:
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Computer Science
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Software Engineering
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Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
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Actuarial Science (STEM-related)
Who Can Apply:
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South African citizens
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Matriculants with excellent marks in Mathematics and Science
Benefits:
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Full-cost bursary
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Access to mentorship and development opportunities
Website: www.investecbursary.org
7. The MICT SETA Bursary
The Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) offers annual bursaries to students in tech-related courses.
Fields Funded:
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Software Development
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Systems Analysis
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Cybersecurity
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Information Systems
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Data Science
Who Can Apply:
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South African citizens studying at public institutions
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Students must be pursuing a qualification in an MICT SETA-recognized field
Benefits:
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Covers tuition, books, accommodation, and other study-related costs
Website: www.mict.org.za
8. Anglo American Bursaries
As one of South Africa’s largest mining companies, Anglo American supports engineering talent, especially in technical fields.
Fields Funded:
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Mechanical Engineering
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Electrical Engineering
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Mining Engineering
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Metallurgical Engineering
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Computer Science
Who Can Apply:
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Matriculants or current students
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High performance in Mathematics and Science
Benefits:
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Full bursary
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Vacation work and graduate employment opportunities
Website: www.angloamerican.com
9. ArcelorMittal Bursary Scheme
Fields Funded:
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Metallurgical Engineering
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Electrical Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Information Technology
Who Can Apply:
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South African citizens with good academic performance
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Must intend to study at a recognized public university
Benefits:
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Full funding
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Vacation training and employment opportunities
Website: www.arcelormittalsa.com
How to Boost Your Chances of Getting a Tech/Engineering Bursary
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Start Early – Most bursaries open mid-year and close between August and October.
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Focus on Academics – Strong marks in Mathematics, Physical Science, and IT are often a minimum requirement.
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Customize Your Application – Tailor your motivation letter and CV to reflect your passion for engineering or technology.
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Gather All Documents – Include certified ID, academic results, proof of income, and letters of recommendation.
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Apply to Multiple Opportunities – Don't rely on one bursary. Apply to as many as you're eligible for.
Final Thoughts
Engineering and technology are essential for the future of South Africa. With the country actively investing in these fields, students pursuing relevant qualifications have numerous bursary options available. Whether you’re interested in becoming a software developer, an electrical engineer, or a data scientist, there are organisations ready to fund your journey.
Don't let financial challenges stop you from reaching your dreams. Use this list as your starting point and take action. Prepare early, meet deadlines, and apply confidently — your future in tech or engineering starts with one good application.
