South African Students: Your Chance to Get a Full Scholarship for 2026
If you’re a South African student who is starting a university degree in 2026 and you want to study a subject that could lead to a job in engineering, science, or business, you should read on. The South African Petroleum Refineries (SAPREF) are offering a full bursary for the 2026 academic year. This isn’t just a piece of paper that says “you can study for free”; it also gives you a head‑start in the energy and petrochemical industries, one of the country’s most important sectors.
Who Can Apply
- Only South African students who are citizens.
- Students who are in their first or second year in 2026.
- You must be accepted into a public university in South Africa; private institutions are not considered.
- Your course must match one of SAPREF’s skill needs listed below.
- You need to have excellent grades to show you can handle a demanding degree.
If you tick every box, you can fill out the application and send it by 12 February 2026. Missing any part of the application could mean you lose your chance, so double‑check everything before you send it.
Courses Covered
SAPREF focuses on fields that will help its operations and future projects. The following degrees are fully covered:
Business & Management
- BCom Finance
- BCom Logistics
- BCom Supply Chain Management
- BCom Human Resource Management
Engineering
- BSc Electrical Engineering
- BSc Instrumentation Engineering
- BSc Mechanical Engineering
- BSc Chemical Engineering
Science
- BSc Environmental Science
These programs are valued because they lead to good jobs both in South Africa and abroad, especially in energy, oil, and chemical plants.
What You Get
When you win a full SAPREF bursary, you will receive:
- Tuition fees paid for the entire program.
- Required textbooks at no cost.
- Extra study‑related support such as access to special resources or workshops.
Beyond the money, the bursary connects you early to the industry. You’ll learn what employers expect from students, and you’ll have a chance to join internships, graduate programmes, and eventually work at SAPREF or other companies in the same field.
How to Put In Your Application
Step 1 – Gather the Needed Papers
- A detailed CV that shows your schooling, skills, and any work or volunteer experience.
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Your most recent academic transcript or statement of results.
- A proof of registration or your official acceptance letter from your university.
Make sure each document is clear and accurate. An incomplete set of files will not be considered.
Step 2 – Send It All by Email
Send your documents to the email address below. Be sure to include your full name and contact details in the subject line.
- Email: recruitmentapply@sapref.com
- Deadline: 12 February 2026 (no late applications will be accepted)
You can write a short cover letter that tells the recruiter why you want to study this course and how you think SAPREF will help your future career.
Why It Matters
Winning this bursary can change the way you study and the jobs you can get after you graduate. The benefits include:
- Financial freedom so you can focus on your coursework.
- Training in skills that are in short supply, which means more job offers.
- A direct route into the energy and petrochemical industry in South Africa.
If you are ready to start a degree that could lead to a high‑paying job, this scholarship is worth checking out. Make sure you meet all the conditions, put together a clean application, and send it in before the 12 February deadline. Good luck!