Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) has opened applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme, offering South African students the opportunity to pursue their studies with comprehensive financial support while gaining exposure to one of the world’s most respected automotive brands.
This bursary is designed for high-performing Grade 12 learners and university students who show strong academic potential and a clear interest in building long-term careers within the automotive, engineering, technology, finance, and corporate sectors. Beyond funding, the programme forms part of Mercedes-Benz South Africa’s broader talent pipeline, creating pathways into experiential learning, vacation work, and future graduate development opportunities.
About Mercedes-Benz South Africa
Mercedes-Benz South Africa Ltd is a key contributor to the country’s automotive manufacturing and mobility sector, with a long-standing commitment to skills development and youth empowerment. Through its bursary and graduate development initiatives, MBSA invests in future professionals who can contribute to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable business growth.
The bursary programme reflects MBSA’s focus on developing scarce and critical skills while supporting transformation within the South African workforce.
What the MBSA Bursary Programme Covers
The Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme offers comprehensive financial and developmental support. While benefits are subject to specific terms and conditions, the bursary may cover:
Financial Support
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Accommodation or transport expenses
- A monthly stipend
- Textbooks and approved study materials
Work Exposure and Career Development
- Access to vacation work opportunities at Mercedes-Benz South Africa in Pretoria (Menlyn Maine)
- Exposure to a professional corporate environment
- Potential consideration for the MBSA Graduate Development Programme upon successful completion of studies
This combination of academic funding and workplace exposure gives bursary recipients a competitive advantage when entering the job market.
Fields of Study Supported
MBSA encourages applications from students studying or intending to study in disciplines aligned with its current and future skills needs. These include:
Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Information Technology
- Software Development
Business, Finance, and Corporate Services
- Finance
- Accounting
- Supply Chain Management
- Logistics
- Human Resources
- Law (Legal and Compliance)
- Business Studies, including Sales, After-Sales, Marketing, and Communications
Students enrolled in these fields are strongly encouraged to apply.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a South African citizen
- Be a Grade 12 learner, or
- Be a first- or second-year full-time university student
- Be studying, or intending to study, in one of the approved fields
Who Is Not Eligible
- Employees of the Mercedes-Benz South Africa Group of Companies
Required Documents
Applicants must ensure that all supporting documents are uploaded during the online application process. Certified copies are required, and file sizes must remain small.
Mandatory Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Grade 12 results or the most recent tertiary academic record
- Certified copy of a South African identity document
Incomplete or incorrectly uploaded applications may be disqualified.
How to Apply
Applications for the Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme 2026 must be submitted online. Email or manual applications are not accepted.
Click here to apply for Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) Bursary Programme 2026
Applicants are advised to carefully complete all required fields, upload the correct documents, and review their application before final submission.
Employment Equity and Selection Process
Mercedes-Benz South Africa is an equal opportunity employer, and the selection process is guided by:
- The Employment Equity Act (No. 58 of 1998)
- The Code of Good Practice on the employment of persons with disabilities
- Relevant immigration legislation where applicable
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no feedback is received after the selection process, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Why This Bursary Matters
The MBSA Bursary Programme is more than financial assistance. It is a strategic investment in future professionals who have the potential to grow into skilled engineers, technologists, finance specialists, and business leaders within the automotive and mobility industry.
For motivated students who value excellence, innovation, and long-term career growth, this bursary provides a powerful foundation for success.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme 2026 offers ambitious South African students the opportunity to study with financial security while gaining exposure to a globally recognised automotive brand. By combining academic support with workplace experience and future career pathways, the programme stands out as one of the most valuable bursary opportunities available.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements and are serious about building professional careers in high-demand fields are encouraged to submit complete applications.
Application closing date: 23 January 2026
