Sappi Engineering Bursary 2026 – Apply Now for Fully Funded Study Opportunities

Sappi, a global leader in sustainable woodfibre products, is offering undergraduate bursaries to passionate and talented South African students pursuing Engineering and Forestry Science degrees at recognised local universities.

This bursary is designed to remove financial barriers for deserving students while creating a pipeline of skilled future engineers for the company’s operations across South Africa.

What the Sappi Engineering Bursary Covers

Successful applicants will receive financial support that may include:

• Tuition fees for your chosen degree
• Prescribed textbooks
• Accommodation costs
• Living allowance

The total bursary value depends on your household income, ensuring fair allocation to those with the greatest need.

Work Experience Opportunities

One of the standout benefits of the Sappi bursary is hands-on industry experience:

• Vacation work opportunities are provided in July and December every year.
• Upon successful completion of your degree, bursary recipients may be fast-tracked into the Sappi Engineer-in-Training Programme, which offers world-class mentorship and career development.

Fields of Study Funded by Sappi

If you’re accepted, you could study in one of these high-demand fields:

• Chemical Engineering (BSc or BEng)
• Civil Engineering (BSc or BEng)
• Electrical Engineering (BSc or BEng)
• Forestry and Wood Science (BSc)
• Industrial Engineering (BSc or BEng)
• Mechanical Engineering (BSc or BEng)
• Mechatronics Engineering (BSc or BEng)

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Sappi Engineering Bursary, you must:

• Be a South African citizen aged between 17 and 25 years.
• Have completed Matric or be in your final Matric year.
• Achieve at least:
  • 70% for Mathematics (NOT Maths Literacy)
  • 70% for Physical Science
  • 60% for English
• Plan to study full-time in an Engineering or Forestry Science programme at a Sappi-approved university.

📌 Preference is given to candidates from communities near Sappi’s operations, provided they meet the academic requirements.

Closing Date

Applications close on 30 September 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare their academic transcripts, proof of residence, and supporting documents before starting the online application. Apply directly through the official Sappi Bursary Application Portal to ensure your application is processed.

Conclusion

The Sappi Engineering Bursary 2026 is more than just financial aid — it’s a stepping stone to a rewarding career with one of South Africa’s most respected companies. If you meet the academic and eligibility requirements, this is your chance to gain both financial support and real-world engineering experience.

💡 Pro Tip for Applicants: Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues, and ensure your application is complete with all required documents.