Telkom Bursary 2026: Complete Application Guide
Telkom SA, South Africa's largest fixed-line telecommunications operator and a growing force in mobile and digital services, offers bursaries to talented South African students in IT, engineering, and telecommunications. The Telkom Bursary provides full financial support and connects recipients with one of South Africa's most established technology employers through structured vacation work. Applications are open from August annually.
About the Telkom SA Bursary
Telkom SA is a JSE-listed technology group offering fixed-line, mobile (through its Telkom Mobile brand), broadband, and ICT solutions to homes and businesses across South Africa. Originally a state-owned entity, Telkom has undergone significant transformation into a more commercially driven technology company competing in the digital services space. Telkom's bursary programme is central to its talent acquisition strategy in a highly competitive technology landscape. As the company builds out its fibre infrastructure, expands mobile coverage, and develops cloud and cybersecurity services, it needs qualified engineers, developers, and IT professionals who understand both legacy and emerging technologies. The Telkom Bursary is designed to attract the most talented students in South Africa's technology pipeline and to develop them into future leaders within the company. Bursars receive mentorship, access to Telkom's technology facilities during vacation work, and a clear pathway into employment upon graduation.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Registration and examination fees
- Textbooks and prescribed materials
- Accommodation allowance
- Monthly living stipend
- Paid vacation work placement at Telkom
- Mentorship from Telkom technology professionals
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: South African citizen
- Study level: Undergraduate degree or BTech at an accredited South African institution
- Fields of study: Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science
- Academic average: Minimum 65% in Grade 12 overall, with 65% or above in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Financial need: Financial need is assessed alongside academic merit
- Work-back obligation: One year of employment at Telkom per year of bursary funding
When to Apply
Applications open in August each year and typically close in November. Successful candidates are notified before December.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Visit telkom.co.za and navigate to the Careers or About Telkom section to find bursary information.
- Complete the online bursary application form with accurate personal and academic details.
- Compose a motivational letter detailing your interest in the ICT sector and your career ambitions.
- Upload certified copies of all required documents.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews at a Telkom office or via video call.
Documents Required
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 12 results
- Tertiary academic transcript (if enrolled)
- Proof of university acceptance or registration
- Motivational letter
- CV
- Proof of financial need (payslips, grant letter, or affidavit)
- Reference letters
Tips and Additional Information
Telkom is undergoing an exciting transformation from a traditional fixed-line operator into a diversified technology group. Bursars who join Telkom after graduation are exposed to fibre rollout projects, cloud computing infrastructure, and enterprise ICT solutions. The company has a growing culture of innovation and actively supports young employees who want to develop new products and services.
Contact Details
- Official website: https://www.telkom.co.za/about-telkom/bursaries
- Email: bursaries@telkom.co.za
- Check the Telkom website for the current year's bursary application portal and deadline.