Mercedes‑Benz South Africa Bursary 2026 – What the Job Is About
The Mercedes‑Benz Bursary Programme 2026 is a chance for students in South Africa to get a full scholarship that pays for most of their university costs. The scholarship covers tuition, books, meals, a place to stay and a small allowance. Students who receive the bursary also can work for a few weeks at Mercedes‑Benz East London during university holidays. The programme is aimed at bright students who want to study subjects that fit Mercedes‑Benz’s future needs.
Why it matters
Mercedes‑Benz seeks students who can later help the company grow. The bursary gives you the money and a real‑world learning experience, so you won’t worry about paying for school, and you’ll see how the automotive industry works up close.
Subjects you can study
You can apply if you are studying (or want to study) any of these fields at a recognised South African university.
- Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
- Computer Engineering, IT or Software Development
- Finance, Accounting or Economics
- Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Metallurgy
- Metrology
- Human Kinetics & Ergonomics
- Supply Chain or Logistics
What the bursary pays for
Your scholarship will cover:
- Whole tuition fees for the year.
- Textbooks and school supplies.
- Food and accommodation while you study.
- A monthly allowance to help with everyday costs.
Students also might get a short job break during summer or winter holidays at Mercedes‑Benz East London.
Who can apply
- You must be a South African citizen; foreign students can apply only if they can get a valid work visa.
- You must be in your final year of high school (Matric) or have finished it.
- You need a minimum overall average of 70 % if you are still in Matric.
- Applicants to Engineering subjects need at least 65 % in Mathematics or Physical Science.
- If you are already enrolled at university, you need a recent overall average of 65 % or higher.
- You cannot currently work for Mercedes‑Benz.
- First‑ and second‑year students will be looked at first.
- Students living in the Eastern Cape get extra preference.
- Students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to apply – step by step
- Go to the Mercedes‑Benz careers website and click the “Apply” button.
- Read the privacy statement, agree to it, and click “Continue.”
- If you haven’t created a user account, click “New User” and sign up.
- Fill in the application form and upload the required documents.
- When asked “How did you hear about the bursary?”, enter “www.zabursaries.co.za.”
Documents you must send
All documents must be certified copies; missing any will cancel your application.
- South African ID copy.
- Matric third‑term report (if you are still in high school).
- Matric certificate (if you have finished).
- Most recent university results (if you are a student now).
- A CV, preferably in PDF format.
What happens next
Applications will close on 28 November 2025. The selection team will review all submissions and contact shortlisted students within 6 weeks. If you do not receive news, your application was not successful.
Ready to apply?
Apply Now for the Mercedes‑Benz South Africa Bursary 2026
The reference number for the application is MER0003TZ3.
Good luck, and hope you take this step toward a bright future in the automotive world!