Top 10 Scholarships for Engineering Students in South Africa 2025

Engineering is one of the most sought‑after and impactful fields in South Africa. From building infrastructure to advancing technology, engineers are critical to the country’s development. However, studying engineering can be expensive. Tuition fees, materials, and living expenses can make it difficult for many students to afford.

Fortunately, there are many scholarships for engineering students in South Africa 2025 designed to help you achieve your academic and professional goals without financial stress.

In this guide, we highlight the top 10 scholarships for engineering students in South Africa in 2025, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply. We also answer frequently asked questions and share tips to help you succeed.

Whether you are a high school graduate, an undergraduate, or pursuing postgraduate studies, you’ll find a scholarship program here to match your needs.

Why Engineering Scholarships Matter in South Africa

Engineering plays a crucial role in South Africa’s growth. Scholarships for engineering students help by:

• Encouraging talented students to pursue engineering careers.

• Reducing financial burdens on students and their families.

• Promoting diversity and inclusion in technical fields.

• Addressing the shortage of skilled engineers in the country.

These scholarships not only support individual students but also contribute to national development.

What Do Engineering Scholarships Typically Cover?

Engineering scholarships in South Africa vary in what they offer, but many include:

• Full or partial tuition fees.

• Textbooks and study materials.

• Accommodation and meals.

• A monthly or annual stipend.

• Travel allowance (sometimes).

• Mentorship and internship opportunities.

Some scholarships even guarantee employment after graduation, especially those sponsored by engineering companies.

Who Is Eligible for Engineering Scholarships in South Africa?

Although each scholarship has its unique criteria, most require applicants to:

• Be South African citizens or permanent residents.

• Demonstrate strong academic performance, particularly in mathematics and physical sciences.

• Have been accepted into or be enrolled in an engineering program at a recognized South African institution.

• Show financial need (for need‑based scholarships).

• Exhibit leadership skills or community involvement (optional for some).

Always check the specific requirements of each scholarship before applying.

Top 10 Scholarships for Engineering Students in South Africa 2025

Below are the top 10 scholarships for engineering students in South Africa in 2025, based on their benefits, reputation, and accessibility.

1. Eskom Bursary Scheme

Overview:
Eskom, the state‑owned electricity utility, offers one of the most comprehensive bursaries for engineering students, particularly those in electrical and mechanical fields.

Eligibility:

• South African citizen.

• Strong academic results in math, physical science, and English.

• Acceptance into an accredited engineering program.

Benefits:

• Full tuition, accommodation, books, meals, and a monthly allowance.

• Practical training and potential employment at Eskom.

2. Sasol Bursary Program

Overview:
Sasol funds students studying chemical, mechanical, electrical, and mining engineering, among others.

Eligibility:

• High academic achievers in Grade 12 or current university students.

• South African citizenship.

Benefits:

• Full financial support plus vacation work opportunities.

• Guaranteed job placement after graduation.

3. Transnet Bursary Scheme

Overview:
Transnet supports students in fields aligned with the company’s operations, including civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

Eligibility:

• Excellent academic record.

• Financial need.

• Commitment to work for Transnet after graduation.

Benefits:

• Tuition, residence fees, books, and a monthly stipend.

4. NRF (National Research Foundation) Bursaries

Overview:
The NRF offers funding for students pursuing research‑oriented engineering degrees at postgraduate level.

Eligibility:

• South African citizen or permanent resident.

• Enrolled in a recognized South African institution.

Benefits:

• Tuition and research costs.

5. Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) Bursaries

Overview:
ECSA provides bursaries to promote professional engineering in South Africa.

Eligibility:

• High academic performance.

• Enrolled in an accredited engineering program.

Benefits:

• Partial financial assistance and support for registration.

6. Aurecon Bursary

Overview:
Aurecon, an international engineering and infrastructure advisory company, offers bursaries for civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering students.

Eligibility:

• South African citizenship.

• Strong academic results.

• Enrolled in a recognized university.

Benefits:

• Tuition, books, and vacation work.

7. Anglo American Bursary Scheme

Overview:
Anglo American funds students in mining, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering.

Eligibility:

• Excellent academic performance.

• Interest in a mining career.

Benefits:

• Tuition, accommodation, books, and practical experience.

8. Murray & Roberts Bursary

Overview:
Focused on civil, mechanical, electrical, and mining engineering, this bursary targets students pursuing careers in construction and engineering.

Eligibility:

• South African citizen.

• Academic excellence.

Benefits:

• Tuition, living expenses, books, and work placement.

9. Hatch Bursary Program

Overview:
Hatch funds students in mechanical, civil, electrical, and chemical engineering.

Eligibility:

• Academic merit and financial need.

• Enrolled at a South African university.

Benefits:

• Tuition, books, accommodation, and mentorship.

10. Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Scholarships

Overview:
The DHET offers various funding schemes for students in scarce skills areas, including engineering.

Eligibility:

• South African citizens.

• Enrolled in priority engineering fields.

Benefits:

• Full tuition, accommodation, and stipends.

Summary Table: Top 10 Engineering Scholarships in South Africa 2025

How to Apply for Engineering Scholarships in South Africa

Step 1: Research Available Opportunities

Visit the websites of the organizations listed above or your university’s financial aid office.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Common documents include:

• Academic transcripts.

• ID or passport.

• Proof of acceptance or enrollment.

• Motivation letter.

• Proof of income (if applicable).

Step 3: Complete the Application

Follow all instructions carefully and provide accurate information.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications often close between August and December for the following year.

Step 5: Attend Interviews or Tests (if required)

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early to avoid missing deadlines.

• Maintain high grades, especially in math and science.

• Write a strong, personalized motivation letter.

• Highlight leadership roles and extracurricular activities.

• Apply to more than one scholarship to improve your chances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for more than one engineering scholarship?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Do I need to pay back these scholarships?

No, most are grants that you don’t have to repay, though some require you to work for the sponsor after graduation.

3. Are these scholarships only for undergraduate students?

No, some (like NRF) also support postgraduate students.

4. What if my grades are not very high?

Some scholarships consider financial need and potential alongside academic performance.

5. Can international students apply for these scholarships?

Most of these are for South African citizens or permanent residents.

6. When should I apply?

Start checking from mid‑year and aim to submit applications before the end of the year.

7. What engineering fields are most funded?

Fields like electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical, and mining engineering tend to receive the most support.

8. Do these scholarships include internship opportunities?

Yes, many (like Eskom and Sasol) offer work experience during or after your studies.

9. Can part‑time students apply?

Some scholarships allow part‑time study, but most are intended for full‑time students.

10. Do I have to study at a specific university?

Most scholarships are valid for any accredited South African institution, but some prefer certain universities.

Why Pursue an Engineering Scholarship in South Africa?

An engineering scholarship doesn’t just help you financially; it also:

• Boosts your confidence.

• Connects you with mentors and industry professionals.

• Opens doors to job opportunities.

• Allows you to focus fully on your studies.

South Africa needs more engineers, and these scholarships help meet that demand while empowering students to reach their full potential.

Conclusion: Start Your Journey Today

Engineering is a rewarding and impactful career path. If financial constraints have been holding you back, the scholarships highlighted in this article can help you achieve your dream.

Take the time to research, prepare a strong application, and apply before deadlines. By securing a scholarship for engineering students in South Africa 2025, you can focus on your studies and gain valuable experience without financial stress.

Begin your journey today — visit the official websites of the organizations listed above and take the first step toward a successful engineering career.