Do you want to study engineering without worrying about tuition fees? Sappi Engineering Bursary Programme is open for South African students, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the bursary offers
Sappi will fund an undergraduate degree in Engineering or Forestry Science at a university that partners with the company. The support can include tuition, books, accommodation and a living allowance. The exact amount is based on your household income.
Who can apply
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a South African citizen aged 17 – 25.
- Have completed Matric or be in your final year.
- Score at least 70 % in Mathematics and 70 % in Physical Science.
- Score at least 60 % in English. (Grade 11 results can be used if you are still in Matric.)
- Have Mathematic Literacy *not* accepted in place of Mathematics.
- Plan to study full‑time at a university supported by Sappi.
Fields of study covered
- Chemical Engineering – BSc or BEng
- Civil Engineering – BSc or BEng
- Electrical Engineering – BSc or BEng
- Forestry and Wood Science – BSc
- Industrial Engineering – BSc or BEng
- Mechanical Engineering – BSc or BEng
- Mechatronics Engineering – BSc or BEng
What you gain
The bursary may pay for tuition, books, accommodation and a living allowance. You will also have the chance to do vacation work in July and December each year, giving you real‑world engineering experience at Sappi. Successful graduates may be invited to join the Sappi Engineer‑in‑Training Programme, a clear pathway to a graduate role.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the Sappi careers portal: Apply for Sappi Engineering Bursary 2027.
- Enter the Requisition Number req240 to find the correct posting.
- Complete the online application form. Double‑check that your personal details, Matric results and chosen degree programme are correct.
- Upload any required documents (e.g., ID, Matric certificate, proof of income).
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Tips to improve your chances
- Use your Grade 11 results if you are still in Matric; they count toward the subject percentages.
- Make sure your household income information is accurate – it determines the bursary level.
- If you live near a Sappi operation, highlight that in your application; community proximity is a preference.
- Proofread your application for spelling or data errors before submitting.
- Apply early. Many candidates wait until the last week, and technical glitches can arise.
Next steps
Applications close on 30 September 2026. Start gathering your documents now and submit your application before the deadline. This could be the first step toward a funded engineering degree and a future career with Sappi.
