MTN Bursary 2026: Full Guide for South African Students
MTN Group, Africa's largest mobile network operator by subscribers, offers a bursary programme for South African students studying electronic engineering, information technology, telecommunications, and related fields. The MTN Bursary provides comprehensive financial support and integrates recipients into MTN's talent pipeline through vacation work and mentorship. Applications open in August each year.
About the MTN Group Bursary
MTN Group was founded in South Africa in 1994 and has grown into a pan-African telecommunications powerhouse operating in 19 countries across Africa and the Middle East. Headquartered in Johannesburg, MTN serves over 280 million subscribers and is one of the most valuable brands on the continent. MTN's bursary programme is part of the company's commitment to developing African talent in the technology and telecommunications sector. As MTN accelerates its transition towards becoming a technology company offering fintech, digital, and enterprise solutions alongside traditional mobile services, the need for highly skilled graduates in software, data, and engineering disciplines has never been greater. Bursars receive not only financial support but also the opportunity to work alongside MTN engineers and technology teams during vacation periods, giving them unparalleled exposure to the infrastructure and systems that underpin one of Africa's most important digital networks.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation or residence allowance
- Monthly living stipend
- Paid vacation work at MTN offices or technical facilities
- Mentorship from senior MTN professionals
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: South African citizen
- Study level: Undergraduate degree or National Diploma at an accredited South African university or university of technology
- Fields of study: Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Data Science, Network Engineering, Business Information Systems
- Academic average: Minimum 65% in Grade 12, with at least 65% in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Financial need: Financial need is taken into account; preference given to students from under-resourced backgrounds
- Work-back obligation: One year of employment at MTN per year of bursary funding received
When to Apply
Applications open in August and close in October or November each year. Notifications are sent by December.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Visit mtn.co.za and navigate to the About MTN section, then look for Sustainability or Bursaries.
- Access and complete the online bursary application form.
- Write a motivational letter explaining your interest in telecommunications and technology.
- Attach certified copies of all required supporting documents.
- Submit the completed application before the advertised closing date.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for telephonic or in-person interviews.
Documents Required
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 12 results or certificate
- Tertiary academic transcript (if currently enrolled)
- Proof of acceptance or registration from university
- Motivational letter
- CV
- Proof of household income or financial need
- Two reference letters
Tips and Additional Information
MTN operates across a diverse set of African markets and bursars who join MTN as employees have the opportunity to develop international careers across the MTN footprint. The company's investment in 5G, fintech (MoMo), and enterprise cloud services means that graduates joining MTN will work at the intersection of technology, finance, and communications - some of the most dynamic fields in the African economy.
Contact Details
- Official website: https://www.mtn.co.za/about-mtn/sustainability/bursaries
- Email: bursaries@mtn.com
- MTN updates its bursary contact details annually. Verify through the official mtn.co.za website before applying.