Eskom, South Africa’s leading electricity provider, is offering an exciting bursary program for 2026, aimed at supporting aspiring engineers across various disciplines. The Eskom Engineering Bursary is designed to nurture future South African engineers by providing financial support for university and university of technology studies. If you’re a young South African interested in engineering and committed to contributing to national development, this bursary could be the ideal opportunity.
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Overview of the Eskom Engineering Bursary Program
Eskom’s bursary initiative supports students in multiple engineering fields by covering educational costs and offering mentorship. The program includes two main streams:
- University Bursary (X79): For students pursuing BEng or BSc degrees in engineering.
- University of Technology Bursary (X59): For students enrolled in diploma programs at universities of technology.
Both streams are open to internal and external applicants, broadening access to quality engineering education for South African youth.
Eskom Engineering University Bursary (X79): Key Details
- Position Title: University Bursars X79
- Type: Internal/External
- Specialization: Engineering bursary for university studies
- Location: South Africa (Gauteng)
- Reference Number: 50691424NP
- Closing Date: 19 November 2024
Eligibility Criteria for the University Bursary (X79)
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- South African Citizenship: Only South African citizens qualify.
- 2024 Matriculants: Applicants should be completing Matric in 2024.
- Conditional University Acceptance: Must have conditional acceptance to an engineering program at a recognized university.
- No Other Bursaries or Registrations: Applicants should not be recipients of other bursaries or registered at any tertiary institution.
Minimum Academic Requirements (Grade 11 Results from 2023)
- English: Level 4 minimum
- Pure Mathematics: Level 5 minimum
- Physical Science: Level 5 minimum
Supported Engineering Fields
This bursary supports studies in:
- BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering (Light and Heavy Current)
- BEng/BSc Mechatronics Engineering
- BEng/BSc Mechanical Engineering
- BEng/BSc Chemical Engineering
- BEng/BSc Civil Engineering
- BEng/BSc Metallurgy Engineering
- BEng/BSc Industrial Engineering
Note: Final funding decisions are based on the applicant’s Matric results.
Eskom Engineering University of Technology Bursary (X59): Focus on Practical Skills
- Position Title: University of Technology Bursars X59
- Type: Internal/External
- Specialization: Engineering bursary for university of technology studies
- Location: South Africa (Gauteng)
- Reference Number: 50738540NP
- Closing Date: 19 November 2024
Eligibility Criteria for University of Technology Bursary (X59)
Applicants must meet these conditions:
- South African Citizenship
- Matriculated in 2024
- Conditional Acceptance to University of Technology: Provisional acceptance to a diploma program in engineering is required.
- No Other Bursaries or Registrations
Academic Requirements (Grade 11 Results from 2023)
- English: Level 4 minimum
- Pure Mathematics: Level 4 minimum
- Physical Science: Level 4 minimum
Supported Diploma Programs
The bursary covers diploma studies in:
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Light and Heavy Current)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Surveying Engineering
As with the university bursary, Matric results will determine the final funding decisions.
Application Process for the Eskom Engineering Bursary
Candidates must prepare the following:
- Grade 11 Results: Meeting minimum requirements in English, Pure Mathematics, and Physical Science.
- Conditional Acceptance Letter: Proof of conditional acceptance to an engineering program.
- Valid ID: Proof of South African citizenship.
How to Apply
To apply, visit Eskom’s recruitment portal or contact the recruitment team via email at recruitmentssf@eskom.co.za. Ensure all documents are submitted by 19 November 2024.
Note: If you have not been contacted within 28 days after the closing date, your application may be unsuccessful.
Important Tips for Applicants
- Meet Deadlines: Submit applications on time, meeting all eligibility requirements.
- Double-Check Requirements: Confirm you meet all minimum academic standards for your chosen bursary type.
- Reach Out for Help: For any questions, email the provided recruitment address.
Eskom’s commitment to education and skills development in engineering offers South African youth an excellent foundation for successful careers. These bursaries provide financial support and the chance to contribute to South Africa’s technical progress, making them an invaluable resource for aspiring engineers.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.