Sappi Engineering & Forestry Bursary
The Sappi Bursary funds undergraduate studies in engineering and forestry disciplines aligned with Sappi's South African operations, with vacation work and entry into the Sappi Engineer-in-Training programme on successful completion.
Eligible Fields of Study
Sappi Southern Africa supports students in the following disciplines
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ South African citizen
- ✓ Aged between 17 and 25
- ✓ Currently in Grade 12 (Matric) or have successfully completed Matric
- ✓ Enrolled or intending to enrol full-time at a recognised South African university or TVET college for the 2027 academic year
- ✓ Studying toward one of the listed qualifications
- ✓ Minimum 70% for Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy) in Matric or Grade 11
- ✓ Minimum 70% for Physical Science
- ✓ Minimum 60% for English
- ✓ Preference given to applicants with 75%+ in Mathematics and Physical Science
- ✓ Preference given to applicants who reside in communities near Sappi's main business operations
What's Included
- ✓ Tuition fees
- ✓ Textbooks
- ✓ Accommodation
- ✓ Living allowance (value adjusted by household income)
- ✓ Paid vacation work during July and December holidays
- ✓ Pathway into the Sappi Engineer-in-Training programme on graduation
Work Commitment
Successful graduates enter the Sappi Engineer-in-Training programme. The vacation work component during studies is a key part of the bursary.
How to Apply
Steps to complete your Sappi Southern Africa bursary application
- 1
Visit the Sappi careers site and find the current bursary opening
- 2
Complete the online bursary application
- 3
Upload your supporting documents
- 4
Submit before 30 September 2026
- 5
Shortlisted applicants are invited to assessments and interviews
- 6
Successful candidates sign the bursary agreement before registration
Required Documents
- 📄 Certified ID copy
- 📄 Certified matric certificate (or Grade 11 final results)
- 📄 Latest academic transcripts (if currently studying)
- 📄 Proof of acceptance / registration at a recognised university or TVET college
- 📄 Proof of household income
- 📄 CV
- 📄 Motivational letter
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which qualifications does the Sappi Bursary fund?
- Sappi funds undergraduate studies in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, as well as Forestry and Wood Science at recognised South African universities and TVET colleges.
- What academic results do I need?
- Minimum 70% for Mathematics (not Maths Literacy), 70% for Physical Science, and 60% for English in Matric or Grade 11 finals. Preference is given to applicants with 75%+ in Mathematics and Physical Science.
- When does the Sappi Bursary close?
- Applications for the 2027 academic year close on 30 September 2026. Applications are accepted only online through the Sappi careers portal.
- What happens after graduation?
- Successful graduates enter the Sappi Engineer-in-Training programme, gaining structured workplace experience at Sappi operations in South Africa.
Ready to apply?
Applications close on 30 September 2026
Apply on Sappi Southern Africa's official siteInformation verified 2026-05-14. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.
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