Looking to jumpstart your career in engineering, finance, or marketing? The Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) Bursary Programme 2026 offers South African students a fully funded path to undergraduate studies, paving the way for a bright future in the automotive industry. Based in Uitenhage, VWGA is a leading employer with a strong community focus, making this bursary a unique opportunity to grow academically and professionally. Apply now before the deadline!
Application Deadline: 19 September 2025 (at 14:00). Don’t miss out!
Study Locations: Recognized and accredited tertiary institutions across South Africa.
About Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA)
Founded in 1946, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) is a key player in South Africa’s automotive sector, producing the VW Polo and Cross Polo, as well as components for the global Volkswagen Group at its Uitenhage plant. As a subsidiary of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft (VWAG) in Germany, VWGA is the Eastern Cape’s largest private employer and South Africa’s biggest German investment.
Through its “Volkswagen for Good” initiative, VWGA supports communities with projects like:
- Literacy for Kwa-Nobuhle: Helping Uitenhage children read fluently by age 10.
- Show of Hands: Volunteer programme for VWGA employees and families to support local causes.
- Children of VW Bursary: Funds top schools and extra Math/Science lessons for employees’ children with strong grades.
- Young Entrepreneurs Programme: Teaches kids aged 7-15 about entrepreneurship.
The VWGA Bursary 2026 continues this legacy by investing in talented students, with a focus on transformation and diversity.
VWGA Bursary Programme 2026: What’s Covered?
The bursary supports full-time undergraduate studies and offers comprehensive benefits:
- Expenses Covered: Registration fees, tuition, books, stationery, accommodation, meals, and a laptop for study purposes.
- Additional Benefits: Vacation work opportunities, mentoring, development programs, and extra study support.
- Work-Back Obligation: After graduation, recipients must work for VWGA for the same duration as the funding received (e.g., 2 years funded = 2 years of service).
The selection process includes screening, shortlisting, interviews, and psychometric assessments. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 28 November 2025—if you don’t hear back by then, your application was unsuccessful.
Fields of Study
The bursary funds undergraduate studies (not Master’s or Doctoral) in the following fields:
- Engineering: Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering.
- Finance: BCom Finance, Bachelor of Accounting Science, BCom Strategy Development, Strategy Management.
- Logistics/Supply Chain: BCom Logistics and Transport, Supply Chain Management.
- Marketing: BCom Marketing, Digital Marketing, Marketing and Communication.
- Quality/Technology: Quality Management, Polymer Technology.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must meet all criteria below (failure to do so will disqualify your application):
- South African citizen.
- Completed Matric with a Bachelor’s Pass and minimum 70% average.
- Studying full-time towards an undergraduate degree in one of the listed fields.
- Registered or registering at a recognized, accredited South African tertiary institution.
- Minimum 65% average at tertiary level (if already studying).
- Not employed full-time.
- Preference given to students from Designated Groups, per VWGA’s Employment Equity Plan.
How to Apply for the VWGA Bursary 2026
Applications are online-only and must be submitted by 19 September 2025 (14:00). Follow these steps:
- Apply Online: Visit the VWGA Bursary Application Portal 2026.
- Complete the Form: Enter “CareerPathSA” in the field asking how you heard about the bursary.
- Submit Documents: Upload clear, certified copies (less than 3 months old) in a single file per category. Missing documents will lead to disqualification:
- ID document (certified copy).
- Matric certificate (certified copy).
- Full tertiary academic records (all years, even from multiple institutions, certified copy) or police affidavit if not schooling.
- Most recent/June 2025 official academic transcripts or institution report (certified copy) or police affidavit.
- 2025 official university fee statements.
- Lease agreement (if in off-campus accommodation).
- 2025 proof of registration (if studying, certified copy) or police affidavit.
- Comprehensive CV (listing work experience and background).
- Motivational letter (1-2 pages, explaining why you should be selected).
- If funded by another bursary/NSFAS: Bursary agreement/letter/offer.
- If disabled: Dept. of Labour Employment Equity Act (EEA1) Form and doctor’s diagnosis letter.
- If under 18: Signed parental consent form and certified copy of parent/guardian’s ID.
- Submit Early: Late applications are not accepted. Confirm submission via the portal.
Selection and Obligations
- Process: Applications are screened, followed by shortlisting, interviews, and psychometric tests. Successful candidates sign a VWGA agreement.
- Notification: Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by 28 November 2025.
- Work-Back: Post-graduation, you’ll work for VWGA for the duration of funding received.
Contact the Bursary Provider
For queries, contact ExcelAtUni (bursary administrators):
- Email: hello@excelatuni.com
- Contact Page: excelatuni.com/contact-us
- Chat Support: Available on the application portal.
Why Apply for the VWGA Bursary?
The VWGA Bursary 2026 is a game-changer, offering full financial support, mentorship, and a guaranteed job in a global automotive leader. Whether you’re passionate about engineering, finance, or marketing, this programme sets you up for success. Apply before 19 September 2025 and take the first step toward a rewarding career!