Shell South Africa is inviting academically strong and financially deserving students to apply for the Shell Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This bursary is aimed at young South Africans who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and who want to build careers connected to the energy and petrochemical sector.
The programme forms part of Shell’s long-term commitment to skills development, transformation, and preparing future leaders who will play a role in shaping a more innovative and sustainable energy future in South Africa and beyond.
About Shell South Africa
Shell is a global energy and petrochemical company with operations spanning Integrated Gas, Upstream, New Energies, Downstream, and Projects and Technology. The company operates in more than 70 countries worldwide and is known for investing in innovation, safety, and long-term skills development.
In South Africa, Shell has a strong and established presence across several sectors. These include lubricants and oils, retail and commercial fuels, manufacturing and chemicals, and upstream exploration. Shell also operates a nationwide network of service stations and, in partnership with BP, jointly owns the Sapref Refinery, which is one of the largest oil refineries on the African continent.
Through its bursary programme, Shell continues to invest in young talent who have the potential to contribute meaningfully to the country’s energy landscape.
About the Shell Bursary Programme 2026
The Shell Bursary Programme is designed for high-performing matriculants who will be entering their first year of undergraduate study. The focus is on students pursuing energy-related STEM qualifications that align with Shell’s operations and the broader energy sector.
The programme specifically targets learners who demonstrate strong academic performance, genuine financial need, and a clear interest in building a long-term career in science, engineering, or technology. Successful bursary recipients are supported throughout their studies at public universities in South Africa, allowing them to focus on their academic development without the burden of financial stress.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports STEM qualifications that are relevant to careers in the energy and petrochemical industry. Fields of study may include, but are not limited to, various engineering disciplines, science-based degrees, technology-focused qualifications, and mathematics-related fields. All studies must align with careers linked to the energy sector.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the minimum requirements to be considered for the Shell Bursary Programme. Candidates must be South African citizens who are financially needy and have completed Matric with strong academic results.
A minimum overall average of 75 percent in Matric is required, with at least 75 percent achieved in Pure Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English. Applicants must be entering their first year of study in 2026 and must be starting their first undergraduate degree.
Only students who have been accepted or registered at a recognised and accredited public university in South Africa will be considered. The chosen qualification must fall within a STEM field that is relevant to the energy sector. Applicants who do not meet all of these requirements will not be considered.
How to Apply for the Shell Bursary 2026
Applications for the Shell Bursary Programme must be completed online.
Click here to apply for the Shell Bursary Programme 2026
All information must be completed accurately, and applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear and certified copies of all required documents. These include a South African identity document, a Matric certificate, and a university acceptance or admission letter.
Proof of household income is also required and may include recent payslips if parents or guardians are employed, an affidavit if unemployed, or proof of a social grant or pension where applicable. Applications that are incomplete or missing documents may be disqualified.
Enquiries
For all bursary-related enquiries, applicants may contact the bursary administrators directly.
Email: shellbursary@ttibursaries.co.za
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026, and late submissions will not be accepted.
Conclusion
The Shell SA Bursary Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for high-achieving South African students who aspire to build careers in energy-focused STEM fields. With the backing of a globally recognised energy company, successful applicants gain more than financial support; they gain access to a pathway that can shape their academic journey and future professional growth. Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and submit their applications well before the deadline.
