South African students with strong academic performance and clear career goals now have an opportunity that could shape their future. South African Petroleum Refineries (SAPREF) has opened its Full Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year, offering financial and developmental support to high-potential students in scarce-skills fields linked to engineering, science, and business.
This bursary is designed for students who are serious about building careers in one of South Africa’s most critical industrial sectors. SAPREF does not only invest in education but also in the long-term development of skills that are essential to the country’s economic growth.
If you will be in your first or second year of study in 2026, are registered at a mainstream public university, and meet the academic requirements, this bursary could significantly change the direction of your academic and professional journey.
About the SAPREF Bursary Programme
The SAPREF Bursary Programme is a full bursary aimed at supporting students who show strong academic potential and commitment to scarce-skills qualifications. The programme focuses on fields that directly support SAPREF’s operational needs and future workforce requirements.
Through this bursary, SAPREF seeks to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who are prepared for future employment in the energy, engineering, and business sectors.
Fields of Study Funded by SAPREF
SAPREF funds qualifications that are aligned with engineering, environmental sustainability, and business operations.
Business and Management Qualifications
Students pursuing business-related degrees may apply if they are registered for one of the following:
- BCom Finance
- BCom Logistics
- BCom Supply Chain Management
- BCom Human Resource Management
Engineering Qualifications
Engineering students must be enrolled in one of the following programmes:
- BSc Engineering in Electrical or Instrumentation Engineering
- BSc Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
- BSc Engineering in Chemical Engineering
Science Qualification
SAPREF also supports students studying:
- BSc Environmental Science
These qualifications are highly valued in South Africa and internationally, offering strong long-term employment prospects.
Eligibility and Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the SAPREF Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet all the listed requirements.
Applicants must be South African citizens and must be accepted or registered at a mainstream public university in South Africa. Private institutions are not considered under this bursary programme.
Students must be entering their first or second year of study in 2026 and must be studying one of the approved qualifications. Strong academic performance is essential, and only complete applications that meet all requirements will be reviewed.
How to Apply for the SAPREF Bursary
The application process is straightforward, but accuracy and completeness are critical.
Step 1: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- A detailed CV
- A certified copy of a South African ID document
- The latest academic transcript or statement of results
- Proof of registration or an official acceptance letter from the university
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Step 2: Submit Your Application by Email
All documents must be emailed to the SAPREF recruitment address at:
Applications must be submitted before the closing date of 12 February 2026.
Step 3: Application Outcome
Applicants who do not receive feedback within three weeks after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful. SAPREF does not provide individual feedback to applicants who are not selected.
Conclusion
The SAPREF Bursary Programme 2026 offers more than financial support. It provides academically strong students with an opportunity to align their studies with real industry needs and future employment prospects in South Africa’s energy and industrial sectors.
For students who are committed to excellence, studying in scarce-skills fields, and looking for long-term career impact, this bursary represents a meaningful investment in both education and future professional growth.
