The Sappi Engineering Bursary Programme is a funding initiative designed to support talented students in South Africa who want to pursue careers in engineering and forestry-related fields.
About Sappi
Sappi was formed in South Africa in 1936 to serve South African consumers with local produced paper. We have a tradition of innovating and developing new products to meet local demand for newsprint, graphic papers, packaging papers, containerboard – used to protect our customers’ products (especially in the agricultural sector) – and tissue paper for household, medical and industrial use in the Southern Africa region.
Key Details Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Sappi Engineering Bursaries Programme 2027 |
| Offered By | Sappi (South Africa) |
| Study Level | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) |
| Fields of Study | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Mechatronics Engineering, Forestry |
| Eligibility | South African citizens aged 17–25 |
| Academic Requirements | Minimum 70% in Mathematics & Physical Science, 60% in English |
| Institution Requirement | Must study at a recognized South African university |
| Funding Coverage | Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, living allowance |
| Additional Benefits | Vacation work, practical training, career development |
| Work Experience | Yes (holiday/vacation work included) |
| Post-Study Opportunity | Engineer-in-Training Programme |
| Required Documents | ID copy, academic results, CV, proof of admission |
| Application Method | Online via Sappi careers portal |
| Application Opening | Usually around March |
| Application Deadline | Typically August – September |
| Selection Criteria | Academic merit, field relevance, location preference |
| Renewability | Yes, based on academic performance |
| Target Group | High-performing students interested in engineering |
| Country | South Africa |
Fields Covered by the Sappi Engineering Bursary 2027
The programme supports a wide range of engineering disciplines, including:
- Chemical Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Civil Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Electrical Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Forestry and Wood Science (BSc)
- Industrial Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Mechatronics Engineering (BEng or BSc)
Benefits of the Sappi Bursary Programme
The Sappi Engineering Bursary is a fully funded opportunity that may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Study books
- Accommodation
- Living allowance
Note: The bursary value depends on the student’s household income.
Additional Benefits
- Vacation work opportunities (July & December)
- Exposure to the Sappi working environment
- Opportunity to join the Sappi Engineer-in-Training Programme after graduation
Eligibility Requirements for 2027
Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
- South African citizen
- Between the ages of 18 and 25 years
- Completed Matric OR currently in Matric
- Studying or intending on full time studying within one of the aforementioned fields of study
- Studying or intending on studying at an accredited university in South Africa
- Achieved a minimum of 70% for Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy) in Matric
- Achieved a minimum of 70% for Physical Science in Matric
- Achieved a minimum of 60% for English in Matric
- Achieved a minimum overall average of 70% for current year of study (if a current tertiary student)
- *Preference will be given to students who reside in areas close to Sappi’s main business operations
Required Documents
- South African ID document (certified copy)
- Matric certificate (certified copy)
- Any other relevant academic qualification certificates (certified copies)
- Full tertiary academic record, if currently at tertiary level (certified copy)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Proof of tertiary registration/ provisional registration
- Proof of household income
Application Closing Date
Bursary Application Deadline: 30 September 2026
How to Apply Sappi Engineering Bursaries Programme 2027
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Sappi Engineering Bursary Programme?
It is a financial aid programme that supports students studying engineering and related fields.
Who can apply for the Sappi bursary?
South African students aged 17–25 who meet academic requirements can apply.
Does Sappi bursary cover full costs?
Yes, it may cover tuition, accommodation, books, and living expenses.
Which courses are funded?
Engineering fields like Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical, and more.
Is work experience included?
Yes, vacation work is part of the programme.
What is the minimum Maths requirement?
At least 70% in Mathematics.
Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
No, pure Mathematics is required.
Can university students apply?
Yes, current students can also apply.
Is the bursary renewable?
Yes, based on academic performance.
When does the application open?
Usually early in the year (around March).
What is the closing date?
Typically between August and September.
Do I need university acceptance first?
Yes, proof of acceptance is usually required.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, applicants must be between 17–25 years old.
What documents are required?
ID, academic records, CV, and proof of study.
Does Sappi offer jobs after graduation?
Yes, through the Engineer-in-Training Programme.
Can international students apply?
No, only South African citizens are eligible.
How competitive is the bursary?
Very competitive due to high demand.
Do I need Physical Science?
Yes, with at least 70%.
Is English required?
Yes, minimum 60% is required.
Can I apply offline?
In some cases, via Sappi HR offices.
What makes Sappi bursary unique?
It combines funding, training, and career opportunities.
