How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

By | May 8, 2025
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How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa (2025/2026)

What if your entire engineering degree—tuition, books, accommodation, and even food—could be paid for? In South Africa, it can be. Here’s how aspiring engineers can study completely free at top universities.

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

Engineering is one of the most essential and high-paying careers, but it’s also one of the most expensive to study. Fortunately, several South African companies, government departments, and institutions offer free university education for engineers through fully funded bursaries and scholarships. In this guide, we break down the top options for 2025/2026, how to qualify, and how to apply.

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

 Can You Really Study Engineering for Free in South Africa?

Yes—completely free. Through fully funded bursaries and scholarships, you can study engineering at leading universities like:

These programmes often include:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Accommodation

  • Meals or monthly stipends

  • Prescribed textbooks

  • Transport or laptops

  • Vacation work

  • Guaranteed employment post-graduation

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

Who Offers Free University Education for Engineers?

1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

  • Who it’s for: Financially needy and academically eligible students

  • Covers: Tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and allowances

  • Where it applies: TVET Colleges & Public Universities

  • Bonus: Free for qualifying students
    NSFAS Official Website

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

2. SASOL Engineering Bursary

  • Fields: Chemical, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Mining

  • Coverage: Full tuition, books, laptop, allowance, accommodation

  • Extras: Internship + job after studies

  • Deadline: 19 May 2025
    SASOL Bursary

 

How to Study Engineering for Free in South Africa

3. Eskom Bursary Scheme

  • Covers: Tuition, residence, meals, books, and allowance

  • Available For: Electrical, Mechanical, Nuclear, Civil Engineering

  • Requirement: South African citizens with strong academics
    Eskom Bursaries

4. Transnet Engineering Bursary

  • Funding: Full-cost bursary for engineering disciplines

  • Includes: Vacation work & post-study job placement

  • Deadline: 30 June 2025
    Transnet Bursary Info

5. Department of Water & Sanitation Bursary

  • For: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Hydrology

  • What’s Covered: Full university fees + extras

  • Note: Requires work-back contract
    DWS Bursary

6. SANRAL Bursary for Civil Engineers

  • Focus: Transportation/Civil Engineering

  • Coverage: Full university funding + stipend

  • Extras: Practical work, employment obligations
    Apply at SANRAL

7. Hatch Engineering Bursary

  • Fields: Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Systems

  • What’s Included: Full cost of study + vacation work & mentorship
    Hatch South Africa

How to Qualify for Free Engineering Education

To access fully funded engineering studies, you typically need:

  • ✅ South African citizenship

  • ✅ Excellent academic results (especially in Maths & Physical Science)

  • ✅ University acceptance (engineering degree)

  • ✅ Proof of financial need (for NSFAS & some bursaries)

  • ✅ Motivation letter

  • ✅ ID and supporting documentation

Key Application Deadlines (2025/2026)

Program Deadline
SASOL Bursary 19 May 2025
Transnet Bursary 30 June 2025
Eskom Bursary 15 July 2025
NSFAS Likely Nov 2025
SANRAL 31 August 2025
Hatch 1 September 2025

Documents Required for Application

To apply for most bursaries, you’ll need:

  • Certified copy of your ID

  • Matric certificate or Grade 12 results

  • Latest academic transcripts

  • Proof of university admission

  • Motivation/personal statement

  • Proof of household income

  • CV (for some bursaries)

Tips to Secure a Free Engineering Spot

  • Apply early – The best bursaries close early in the year

  • Be honest and passionate in your motivation letter

  • Highlight your financial need (if required)

  • Include community service or leadership activities

  • Apply to more than one bursary to increase your chances

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Which Engineering Fields Are Covered?

You can study the following disciplines for free if you qualify:

  • ✅ Civil Engineering

  • ✅ Mechanical Engineering

  • ✅ Electrical & Electronic Engineering

  • ✅ Mechatronics

  • ✅ Software & Computer Engineering

  • ✅ Mining Engineering

  • ✅ Industrial Engineering

  • ✅ Chemical Engineering

Conclusion: Free Engineering Degrees Are Real

Free university for engineers in South Africa isn’t a dream—it’s a reality for thousands of students every year. Whether through NSFAS, SASOL, or Eskom, the opportunity to graduate debt-free and walk into a high-paying job is within reach. All it takes is a strong application, timely submission, and the drive to succeed.

Don’t let finances stop you—apply today and study engineering for FREE.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I study engineering at university for free in SA?
A: Yes. Through bursaries like SASOL, Eskom, Transnet, and NSFAS, you can study with zero costs.

Q2: Are these opportunities only for undergraduates?
A: Most are for undergrads, but some companies also support postgraduate studies.

Q3: Do I need to repay the funding?
A: Most bursaries are not repaid, but some require a work-back contract after graduation.

Q4: What’s the difference between NSFAS and a company bursary?
A: NSFAS is government-funded and needs-based; company bursaries often include job placement and mentorship.

Q5: Can I apply in matric?
A: Yes! Most bursaries open applications for Grade 12 learners annually.

Q6: Do all bursaries cover accommodation and books?
A: Fully funded bursaries do. Partial bursaries may exclude extras.

Q7: Where can I find all bursaries in one place?
A: Visit zabusaries.com to view and apply for current bursaries.