Sappi Bursary 2026 — Chemical Engineering, Forestry and Paper Sciences
Sappi Southern Africa is one of the world's leading producers of dissolving wood pulp, paper and packaging products. Sappi's bursary programme supports South African students in chemical engineering, forestry science, electrical engineering and related disciplines that underpin its operations.
About the Sappi Southern Africa Bursary
Sappi Limited was founded in 1936 in South Africa and has grown into a global company with operations in Europe, North America and South Africa. In South Africa, Sappi operates paper mills in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga, and manages extensive forestry plantations. Sappi's bursary programme seeks to build a pipeline of technically qualified graduates who understand pulp and paper production, forestry management and environmental stewardship. Recipients gain exposure to world-class manufacturing facilities during vacation work periods.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees at an accredited South African university
- Annual book and equipment allowance
- Monthly accommodation or living allowance
- Structured vacation work at Sappi mills or forestry operations
- Exposure to world-class pulp and paper production processes
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: South African citizen
- Study level: Undergraduate degree at a South African university
- Fields of study: Chemical Engineering, Forestry Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Science, Paper and Pulp Technology
- Academic average: Minimum 65% in Mathematics and Physical Science at matric or equivalent
- Financial need: Financial need is considered alongside academic merit
- Work-back obligation: One year of work-back at Sappi for every year of bursary received
When to Apply
Sappi bursaries open in August and close in October. Check www.sappi.com/careers for exact closing dates each year.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Visit the Sappi careers portal at www.sappi.com/careers
- Search for the student bursary programme
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews at the nearest Sappi operation
- Successful applicants receive a written bursary offer by January
Documents Required
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate with all subject results
- Current academic transcript (if already studying)
- Proof of registration or conditional university acceptance
- Motivational letter (minimum 400 words)
- Two reference letters
- Proof of household income for financial need assessment
Tips and Additional Information
Sappi is an international company but its South African operations remain central to the business. Chemical engineering students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Wits and Stellenbosch frequently benefit from Sappi support. The company also invests in bioenergy and biomaterials research.
Contact Details
- Official website: https://www.sappi.com
- Email: southafrica.bursaries@sappi.com
- Phone: 031 451 4111
- Sappi South Africa head office is in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal. Operations in Stanger, Ngodwana and Cloquet.