Want a Cool Future in Engineering or Science? Check Out the SAPREF Bursary 2026
If you’re a South African student who loves maths, science, or business and dreams of a career that makes a real difference, the SAPREF Bursary Programme for 2026 could be your next step. This scholarship gives full financial support for undergraduate studies in fields that are vital to South Africa’s energy and business world. It’s a chance to study at a public university without worrying about tuition costs, plus you’ll join a network of people who are building the future of our country’s energy sector.
What is SAPREF?
SAPREF stands for South African Petroleum Refinery. The company runs one of the biggest oil refineries in South Africa and is a key part of our national infrastructure. Because energy is so important, SAPREF wants to make sure that the next generation of engineers, scientists, and business leaders has the skills they need. That’s why they offer bursaries and training programs that help students grow in technical and commercial fields.
Who can Apply?
- South African citizen – only people with South African ID qualify.
- Completed Matric – you need to have finished high school and received a Matric certificate.
- Enrolled or accepted to a public university in South Africa – private institutions are not covered by this bursary.
- First‑ or second‑year student for the 2026 academic year.
- Strong academic record – the better your grades, the higher your chances.
- Studying or planning to study in one of the fields listed below.
If you don’t meet every one of these requirements, you won’t be eligible for the bursary.
Fields of Study Covered
- Chemical Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Environmental Science (BSc)
- Finance, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Human Resources Management (BCom)
- Electrical Engineering or Instrumentation Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BSc Eng)
These are the programs that the bursary will cover. If your course is one of these, you’re in the right place.
How Does the Selection Process Work?
- Submit your application by 12 February 2026.
- After the deadline, SAPREF will review all submissions.
- Those shortlisted will be contacted within three weeks of the closing date.
- If you don’t hear back within that time frame, it means your application wasn’t successful.
How to Apply
There is no online form to fill out. Just send an email to recruitmentapply@sapref.com.
- Use the subject line: “SAPREF Bursary 2026”
- In the body, include all required documents (see below).
Email subject: “SAPREF Bursary 2026”
Documents You Need to Send
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Matric certificate.
- Your latest academic record, if you are currently studying.
- Proof of university registration or acceptance (must be on official tertiary letterhead).
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Make sure every file is clear and readable. If anything is missing, your application may be rejected.
Why This Bursary is Important
The skills that you’ll learn in engineering, science, and supply chain management are essential for keeping South Africa’s energy supply stable and for driving economic growth. A bursary from SAPREF not only takes the financial burden off your shoulders but also gives you a stamp of credibility in the industry. After graduation, you could work in a field that directly impacts the country’s future and has a lot of job opportunities.
Final Reminder
The deadline to apply is 12 February 2026. Once the date passes, applications won’t be accepted, so make sure you send all the required documents early. This is a valuable chance to start a career in one of South Africa’s most crucial sectors, so don’t miss it.
If you’re ready to apply, click the link below or copy the email address into your mail program.
Apply for the SAPREF Bursary South Africa 2026 – send your documents to recruitmentapply@sapref.com. Make sure the subject says “SAPREF Bursary 2026.”
Good luck, and may your future in engineering or science shine bright!