Are you looking for a bursary to help fund your studies in South Africa? If yes, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of students are in the same problem (talented, hardworking, but struggling financially). That’s where bursaries come in, and thankfully, many of South Africa’s top companies step up each year to support students like you.
In this article, I’m going to walk you through 20 companies in South Africa that offer bursaries every year. I’ll explain not just the names, but why they do it, the kind of benefits you get as a student, and believe it or not, what they gain in return too. Let’s start
1. Anglo American
This mining giant funds students in mining engineering, metallurgy, geology, and other science-related fields. They cover full tuition, accommodation, meals, and even give a laptop allowance.
Why they do it? They train future employees and reduce skills shortages in their sector.
2. Sasol
If you’re into chemical engineering, accounting, or IT, Sasol is a big name to look out for. Their bursary is fully comprehensive, including vacation work and guaranteed job placement after graduation.
Bonus for you: Mentorship from professionals already in the industry.
3. Transnet
This state-owned freight and logistics company focuses on engineering and transport-related studies. Transnet’s bursary includes academic support and practical work exposure.
Why it matters: You gain real-world experience, not just classroom theory.
4. Eskom
Eskom funds studies in electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering. They offer full bursaries and often give graduates a direct pipeline into employment.
What they gain? Skilled technicians and engineers to run the country’s power supply.
5. Shoprite
Yes, the supermarket giant offers bursaries! Shoprite invests in IT, pharmacy, logistics, and retail management students.
Note: Shoprite bursaries are renewable every year if your marks stay up.
6. Vodacom
Vodacom supports STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, and Maths) students. Their bursary includes mentorship, internships, and work readiness programs.
Value for students: Early exposure to one of Africa’s biggest tech employers.
7. Nedbank
Nedbank offers bursaries to students studying finance, business, IT, and economics.
They provide work during holidays and absorb many of their bursars into graduate programs.
8. FNB (First National Bank)
FNB focuses on students studying computer science, actuarial science, economics, and engineering.
You win: Tuition, laptop, residence, book allowances and a potential job offer after studies.
9. ABSA
ABSA looks for students with leadership potential in finance, IT, analytics, and risk.
Their aim: Groom future leaders who understand the bank’s values and mission early.
10. PwC
PricewaterhouseCoopers supports accounting, auditing, and financial students through bursaries, internships, and articles.
What’s unique? You can do your articles at PwC while studying part-time.
11. KPMG
Similar to PwC, KPMG offers full bursaries in accounting and finance and often places bursars into graduate trainee roles.
It a Win-win situation: They train you, you get a qualification, and they get a competent employee.
12. MTN
MTN’s foundation bursary covers students in engineering, IT, and computer science.
Why it stands out? It includes leadership camps and personal development programs.
13. Toyota South Africa
They sponsor mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering students.
Bonus: You might get invited to intern or work at their Durban plant.
14. Hulamin
Hulamin funds students in metallurgical, industrial, and mechanical engineering.
Good deal: They include vacation work and often guarantee post-study employment.
15. De Beers
Another big mining name, De Beers provides bursaries to geology, mining, and engineering students.
Extras: Study-related tools and assistance during practicals.
16. Momentum Metropolitan
If you’re studying actuarial science or data analytics, Momentum has solid bursary offerings.
Added value: Access to actuarial professionals and work-based training.
17. AECI
AECI, a chemicals and explosives company, supports students in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and even marketing.
Why this matters: You’ll get hands-on industry exposure.
18. Mediclinic
For nursing and medical students, Mediclinic offers bursaries with work-back contracts—meaning you’ll work with them after you qualify.
Why it’s special: It’s ideal if you want to avoid job hunting stress post-graduation.
19. Old Mutual
Old Mutual focuses on actuarial science, finance, and data science students. Their bursaries are known to be some of the most generous in SA.
Perk: They offer structured development plans and internships.
20. Murray & Roberts
Construction and engineering students benefit from Murray & Roberts’ bursary scheme, which includes mentorship, vacation work, and performance incentives.
They benefit too: By building a loyal, skilled workforce from within.
What Do You Really Gain From These Bursaries?
Let’s talk real. A bursary from any of these companies can change your life. You don’t just get your fees paid. You get peace of mind. You don’t stress over textbooks, transport, or food. You get a laptop, academic support, a chance to meet other bright students, and in many cases, a job after graduation. It’s a full package, education, experience, and employment.
But Why Do Companies Offer Bursaries Anyway?
They’re not just being nice. It’s a strategic move. Companies need skilled workers. Instead of hoping someone qualified applies in future, they train you now, their way. You understand their systems, culture, and expectations. It saves them time and money in the long run.
Also, bursary programs improve their brand image. When people see a company investing in youth, communities, and education, they support that brand more. So, it’s a smart business move too.
So now you know, bursaries are not handouts. They are opportunities. If you’re serious about your future, apply with confidence. These companies want people like you: focused, ready to learn, and willing to grow.
Visit bursaryforms.co.za regularly to stay updated. New opportunities drop often and the earlier you apply, the better your chances. Don’t wait for things to change. Go out and grab your future. One bursary application at a time.
