Does Toyota fund students studying supply chain or logistics?

Yes. Supply chain management and logistics are qualifying fields given the critical importance of these functions to Toyota's manufacturing operations.

Do I need to live in Durban to apply for the Toyota bursary?

No, but applicants from KwaZulu-Natal may be given some preference given the location of the Prospecton plant. Applications from all provinces are considered.

What is the Toyota Production System?

The Toyota Production System (TPS) is a manufacturing philosophy based on eliminating waste (muda) and ensuring continuous improvement (kaizen). It is the global standard for lean manufacturing and is widely used across multiple industries.

Are there opportunities at Toyota internationally?

Toyota South Africa employees occasionally have the opportunity to attend training or exchange programmes at Toyota facilities in Japan or elsewhere. Work-back obligations apply to the South African entity.

Does Toyota fund postgraduate studies?

The bursary programme is primarily for undergraduate studies. Employees who wish to pursue postgraduate qualifications may access Toyota's study assistance programme.

Last updated: June 2026— Information is subject to change. Always verify with the relevant government department.

Toyota South Africa Bursary 2026: Full Application Guide

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), the country's leading motor vehicle manufacturer, offers a bursary programme for South African students in engineering and manufacturing-related disciplines. The Toyota SA Bursary provides comprehensive financial support and exposes recipients to world-class automotive manufacturing processes at Toyota's Prospecton plant in Durban. Applications are accepted from August each year.

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About the Toyota South Africa Motors Bursary

Toyota South Africa Motors is a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) and has been manufacturing vehicles in South Africa since 1962. The Prospecton assembly plant in Durban is one of the most modern automotive manufacturing facilities on the African continent and produces Toyota and Datsun vehicles for the South African market and for export to sub-Saharan Africa. TSAM's bursary programme is an investment in the future of South African automotive manufacturing. The company requires skilled mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineers to maintain and improve its production systems, quality control processes, and supply chain operations. Bursars are exposed to the Toyota Production System (TPS), a globally acclaimed manufacturing philosophy that emphasises efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement. The Prospecton plant is located in the eThekwini municipality, and TSAM prioritises applicants from KwaZulu-Natal, though applications from across South Africa are welcomed. The bursary is closely linked to Toyota's broader transformation and skills development objectives.

What the Bursary Covers

Full tuition fees
Registration and examination fees
Textbooks and prescribed materials
Accommodation allowance
Monthly living stipend
Paid vacation work at Toyota Prospecton plant
Exposure to Toyota Production System (TPS) methodology

Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship: South African citizen
Study level: Undergraduate degree or National Diploma at an accredited South African institution
Fields of study: Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Supply Chain Management
Academic average: Minimum 65% in Grade 12, with at least 65% in Mathematics and Physical Science
Financial need: Financial need is a key factor; priority given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
Work-back obligation: One year of employment at Toyota South Africa per year of bursary funding received

When to Apply

Applications open in August and close in November. Toyota SA typically announces successful bursars by January of the following year.

How to Apply — Step by Step

Visit toyota.co.za and look for the About Toyota or Careers section to find bursary information.
Download or access the online bursary application form.
Write a motivational letter that describes your interest in automotive engineering and manufacturing.
Certify and compile all required supporting documents.
Submit your application by the November deadline.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews at Toyota's Prospecton plant or Johannesburg offices.

Documents Required

Certified copy of South African ID
Certified copy of Grade 12 results
Tertiary academic transcript (if enrolled)
Proof of university or institution acceptance or registration
Motivational letter
CV
Proof of household income or financial circumstances
Reference letters from a teacher or community leader

Tips and Additional Information

Toyota South Africa is one of the country's most stable and respected employers, having been present in the market for over 60 years. Bursars who join TSAM as graduates are exposed to international best practices in lean manufacturing and quality management. Toyota also participates in the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) skills development initiatives, giving bursars access to additional training and development resources.

Contact Details

Official website: https://www.toyota.co.za/about-toyota/careers-bursaries
Email: bursaries@toyota.co.za
Toyota South Africa's main manufacturing base is at Prospecton, Durban. Bursars may be placed at the Durban plant or the Johannesburg head office.

Frequently Asked Questions

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