Transnet SOC Ltd is empowering the next generation of South African talent by opening applications for the Transnet Bursary for the 2026 academic year. This comprehensive funding opportunity targets high-achieving students in technical and commercial fields essential to the logistics sector.

About Transnet SOC Ltd

Transnet SOC Ltd, founded in 1990, is South Africa’s largest freight logistics company, with roots tracing back to 1867 when the need for railway services emerged following the discovery of diamonds in Kimberley. Headquartered in Johannesburg’s Carlton Centre, Transnet employs over 49,000 people and manages the daily transport of millions of tons of goods via rail, pipelines, and ports. Comprising divisions such as rail engineering, freight rail, port terminals, national ports authority, and pipelines, the organisation plays a vital role in the logistics and transport industry, offering financial assistance to help develop skilled professionals in South Africa and promote economic growth.

Fields Covered by the Transnet Bursary

The bursary covers studies in the following fields:

  • Electronics Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Metallurgy Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electro-mechanical Engineering
  • Mechatronics Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Accounting Science
  • Computer Science
  • Data Sciences
  • Environmental Science
  • Geographical Information Systems
  • Information Systems
  • Data Analytics
  • Actuarial/Business Science
  • Horticulture
  • Property Valuation/Real Estate
  • Cyber Security
  • Procurement
  • Supply Chain
  • Environmental Management

Expenses Covered by the Transnet Bursary

The bursary will cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Textbook allowance
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Experiential training

Eligibility Requirements for the Transnet Bursary

Applicants must meet the following minimum entry criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen
  • Must have completed Matric or be currently in Matric
  • Must be studying or intend to study in one of the eligible fields listed
  • Must be enrolled at or accepted into a recognised and accredited institution
  • Must be under 25 years old
  • Must be a top-performing student with a minimum of level 5 (60%) for English and relevant subjects in Matric
  • Must have good written and communication skills, basic computer skills, teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and good interpersonal skills
  • Preference given to students from designated groups per the Employment Equity Plan; students with disabilities are encouraged to apply

Transnet Bursary Online Application

To apply, download and complete the official application form:

Transnet Bursary Application Form 2026

Submit clear, certified copies of the following documents with the completed form:

  • South African ID document
  • Matric results or certificate
  • Academic record or latest transcript (if already studying)
  • Proof of registration or acceptance into a tertiary institution
  • Proof of income (parent or guardian)
  • Proof of residence (if required)
  • Motivational letter
  • Shortened Curriculum Vitae

Applications must be submitted via: Online

Email: bursaries@transnet.net
Subject line: Transnet Bursary Application 2026

Apply online at:
Transnet Bursary Application 2026: Engineering studies (Reference: req3217)
Transnet Bursary Application 2026: Specialised Commercial studies (Reference: req3218)

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date for the Transnet Bursary

6 October 2025

Ensure that you submit your application before the deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

For queries, contact:

Transnet Bursary Office
Tel: 011 584 1194
Email: bursaries@transnet.net
Website: https://www.transnet.net/Careers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who qualifies for the Transnet Bursary? +
South African citizens under 25 years old, currently in Matric or with completed Matric, pursuing full-time undergraduate studies in eligible technical or commercial fields at a recognised institution, with strong academic performance and key skills like communication and problem-solving, qualify.
2. What expenses does the Transnet Bursary cover? +
The bursary covers tuition fees, textbook allowance, accommodation, meals, and experiential training, renewed annually based on satisfactory academic performance.
3. Which fields of study are eligible for the Transnet Bursary? +
Eligible fields include various engineering disciplines (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial), Computer Science, Data Sciences, Accounting Science, Environmental Science, and non-technical areas like Data Analytics, Cyber Security, Procurement, and Supply Chain.
4. How do I apply for the Transnet Bursary? +
Download the application form from https://www.transnet.net/getFile.ashx?id=5977, complete it in block letters by hand, and submit online via the careers portal with references req3217 (Engineering) or req3218 (Commercial), along with certified documents.
5. What is the closing date for applications? +
The closing date is 6 October 2025. Applications after this date will not be considered.
6. What documents are required for the Transnet Bursary application? +
Required documents include certified ID, Matric results/certificate, academic record (if studying), proof of registration/acceptance, shortened CV, and the completed handwritten application form.
7. Is vacation work required for bursary recipients? +
Yes, students may be required to undertake vacation work at Transnet during June/July or December/January holidays, with accommodation arranged and paid for by the student using the allowance.
8. What happens after graduation for Transnet Bursary students? +
Bursary recipients may be required to work at Transnet for one year per year of funding received, subject to vacancy availability, and could be viewed as potential employees.
9. How is selection done for the Transnet Bursary? +
Shortlisted candidates are contacted by February 2026 for interviews in major cities, followed by medical fitness assessment and verification of academic results before final selection.
10. Can students with disabilities apply for the Transnet Bursary? +
Yes, students with disabilities are encouraged to apply, with preference given to those from designated groups in line with Transnet’s Employment Equity Plan.