Unlike bursaries with fixed application windows, some companies and institutions in South Africa offer bursaries that accept applications throughout the year. These programs often have no strict closing dates, providing flexibility for students who may miss traditional deadlines. Below, we explore what makes these bursaries unique and highlight some opportunities that remain open year-round.
What Are Year-Round Bursaries?
Year-round bursaries are financial aid programs that allow students to apply at any time during the year, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. These bursaries are typically offered by companies looking to build a talent pipeline for their workforce. By keeping applications open, they ensure a steady flow of potential candidates who can join their teams upon graduation. For students, this means less stress about application deadlines and a smoother transition into the job market after completing their studies.
Why Choose a Year-Round Bursary?
- Flexibility: Apply when you’re ready, without the pressure of a fixed closing date.
- Opportunity for Latecomers: Ideal for students who discover bursaries after traditional deadlines have passed.
- Career Path: Many year-round bursaries are tied to companies that offer internships, vacation work, or guaranteed employment after graduation.
- Diverse Fields: These bursaries cover a wide range of disciplines, from engineering and finance to IT and human resources.
Examples of Year-Round Bursaries in South Africa
Here are some notable bursaries that accept applications throughout the year:
- Gast Bursary
- Fields: Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Quantity Surveying, and Construction Management.
- Details: Gast, a leading waterproofing and construction company, offers bursaries to students with strong academic records. Recipients may also gain practical experience through vacation work.
- How to Apply: Visit the Gast careers page for ongoing applications.
- Hulamin Bursary
- Fields: Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, and Metallurgical Engineering.
- Details: Hulamin, a metal fabrication company, supports students with a passion for engineering. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, and a stipend.
- How to Apply: Check the Hulamin website for application details.
- Deloitte Bursary
- Fields: Accounting, Actuarial Science, and related financial fields.
- Details: Deloitte’s bursary program targets top-performing students aiming for a career in auditing or consulting. It includes mentorship and potential job placement.
- How to Apply: Apply via Deloitte’s careers portal.
- KPMG Bursary
- Fields: Accounting and Finance.
- Details: KPMG offers comprehensive bursaries for students pursuing CA(SA) qualifications. Successful applicants may join their graduate programs.
- How to Apply: Submit applications through KPMG’s website.
- PPC Bursary
- Fields: Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, and Mining.
- Details: PPC, a cement manufacturing company, provides bursaries to students interested in the construction and mining sectors. The program includes practical training opportunities.
- How to Apply: Visit PPC’s careers page for more information.
- DSV Bursary
- Fields: Logistics, Supply Chain Management, and IT.
- Details: DSV, a global transport and logistics company, offers bursaries to students with a knack for innovation in logistics. Recipients may access internships or graduate roles.
- How to Apply: Check DSV’s South Africa careers page.
- Other Notable Programs:
- BDO Bursary: For accounting students aiming to become chartered accountants.
- Sasol Bursary: For STEM fields, particularly engineering and science.
- Anglo American Bursary: For mining-related disciplines.
- Nedbank Bursary: For finance, IT, and data analytics students.
Tips for Applying to Year-Round Bursaries
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the academic and field-of-study requirements before applying.
- Prepare Documents: Have your ID, academic transcripts, and motivation letter ready.
- Tailor Your Application: Highlight how your goals align with the company’s mission and industry.
- Stay Updated: Regularly visit company websites or bursary portals like Grads24 for new opportunities.
- Act Promptly: Even though applications are open all year, some programs have limited spots.
Conclusion
Year-round bursaries offer a fantastic opportunity for South African students to secure funding and career prospects without the pressure of strict deadlines. Whether you’re studying engineering, accounting, IT, or logistics, there’s likely a program that fits your ambitions. Start exploring these opportunities today and take the first step toward a bright future!
For more bursary opportunities, visit Grads24 regularly or check company career pages directly.