PAMSA Bursary South Africa

The PAMSA (Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa) Bursary – Masters in Chemical Engineering is closed for applications for 2025/2026. The deadline was 6 June 2025, with late applications accepted until 27 June 2025. If you plan to apply in future, prepare ahead. At BursaryForms, we help you spot the next cycle.

About PAMSA

PAMSA is the representative body for the pulp, paper, packaging, and tissue manufacturing sectors in South Africa. It promotes renewable, recyclable paper use, supports sustainability, and helps build capacity via research and bursary programmes. At BursaryForms, we connect you with bursaries that build industry and impact.

Fields Covered by the PAMSA Bursary

This bursary is specifically for studies in:

  • Chemical Engineering (at Master’s level)

Expenses Covered by the PAMSA Bursary

The bursary provides support for:

  • Tuition fees for Master’s in Chemical Engineering, full-time over two years
  • Research costs, including projects in process waste, resource efficiency, pulp/paper science, etc.
  • Possible appointment as engineer-in-training at PAMSA-member companies upon completion (or as part of the agreement)

Eligibility Requirements for the PAMSA Bursary

You needed to meet these minimum criteria:

  • Preferably be a South African citizen
  • Be in final year of BEng/BSc Chemical Engineering, or be a graduate in that field
  • Have completed undergraduate studies within five years or be on a track that meets five years or less
  • Hold a minimum average of 60% in the final year of undergraduate studies
  • Intend to register for Master’s in Chemical Engineering at one of the participating universities: Stellenbosch, University of Johannesburg, University of Pretoria, or North-West University

Here are tips from BursaryForms to give your application strength:

  • Start gathering certified academic transcripts early.
  • Prepare a strong motivational letter focused on why you want to work in the pulp/paper or bio-materials sector.
  • Obtain at least one lecturer reference early.
  • Apply by the official deadline rather than late period—priority is given to early applications.

This page was updated on September 25, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply for the PAMSA Bursary

As of now, the application period is over. In previous cycles you would:

PAMSA Bursary Application Portal (previous cycles)

Required documents (certified):

  • South African ID document or proof of citizenship
  • Academic transcripts for all past years of study
  • Motivational letter explaining your interest in research in pulp, paper, bio-materials or process waste etc.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Letter(s) of reference from lecturer(s)

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 PAMSA Bursary

The main closing date was 6 June 2025. A late application period was available until 27 June 2025, but priority was given to applications submitted by the official closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PAMSA Bursary open now?
No. The 2025 cycle has closed. Applications submitted after 27 June 2025 were not accepted.
Who is eligible to apply?
Final year BEng/BSc Chemical Engineering students or recent graduates planning to do Masters in Chemical Engineering at one of the participating universities, with at least 60% average.
Which universities can I apply through?
Stellenbosch, University of Johannesburg, University of Pretoria, and North-West University.
What does the bursary cover?
Tuition and research expenses over two years, along with industry-aligned project work. Potential placement as engineer-in-training.
How much is the PAMSA Bursary worth?
R320,000 over two years (approximately R160,000 per year) for full-time Master’s in Chemical Engineering.
Is South African citizenship required?
Preferable but not always strictly mandatory. Those who strongly meet criteria may still be considered.
Do I need to have graduated already?
You can be in final year or a recent graduate. The key is planning to study the Master’s in the upcoming cycle.
What research topics qualify?
Topics aligned with pulp/paper/bio-based materials, process waste, resource efficiency, wood fibre beneficiation etc.
Can I still submit a late application?
The late period ended on 27 June 2025. It is not open anymore.
How do I prepare for next cycle?
Monitor PAMSA’s official website (thepaperstory.co.za), collect all documents, ensure your academic average is strong, and plan your Master’s registration.