Are you a passionate and dedicated student with a dream of pursuing higher education in engineering, technology, or computer science? If so, the Volkswagen South Africa Bursary for the 2025 academic year might be your opportunity to achieve those dreams.
This bursary program aims to support South African youth by addressing the country’s skills shortage, particularly in technical and technological fields.
About the Volkswagen South Africa Bursary
The Volkswagen South Africa Bursary offers comprehensive financial assistance to qualifying candidates pursuing undergraduate studies in specific fields. The bursary covers the entire duration of study, provided students maintain excellent academic performance and meet the bursary’s requirements. It is designed to help promising students who show a commitment to their education and their future careers.
This bursary is available for the 2025 academic year, and students must be registered for full-time studies at a DHET/CHE accredited South African tertiary institution to qualify. Notably, the bursary is not available to postgraduate (Masters or Doctoral) students but targets those pursuing undergraduate degrees.
What Does the Volkswagen South Africa Bursary Cover?
The Volkswagen South Africa Bursary provides extensive support to ensure that students can focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. The bursary includes:
- Full coverage of registration and tuition fees
- Accommodation expenses
- Meals, books, and stationery
- Access to vacation work opportunities
- Mentoring and developmental support
- Additional study assistance when needed
- A laptop for academic purposes
This bursary offers a complete package that covers essential academic and living costs, ensuring that recipients can concentrate on their education and achieve their goals.
Obligations for Bursary Recipients
One of the key requirements for students who receive the Volkswagen South Africa Bursary is the obligation to work back for every year of funding provided. This means that once students graduate, they must work for VWGA or an affiliated entity for the equivalent duration that they received financial support. If a recipient fails to comply with this agreement, they may be required to refund the bursary benefits they received.
Recipients of the bursary are expected to:
- Maintain full-time student status throughout their academic program.
- Not engage in paid employment during their studies without the permission of VWGA.
Failure to meet these obligations can result in the termination of the bursary contract, and students may be required to refund all benefits received.
Requirements
The Volkswagen South Africa Bursary is open to students who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be registered or intending to register as a full-time undergraduate student in 2025 at a DHET/CHE accredited tertiary institution.
- Must be studying in one of the following fields:
- Mechatronics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Technology
- Software Development / Computer Science
- Data Sciences
Academic performance is a key factor for selection. Applicants must have:
- A Bachelor’s Pass in Grade 12 with a minimum average of 70%.
- For current tertiary students, a minimum average of 65% in their academic records.
Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups in alignment with VWGA’s Transformation and Employment Equity objectives.
Tip: How to Apply for Bursaries for the 2025 Academic Year
How to Apply
To apply for the Volkswagen South Africa Bursary 2025, you must submit a complete and accurate application by the closing date, Monday, 30 September 2024, at 12:00 midday. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, and incomplete applications will be automatically disregarded.
Required Documents for Application:
Before applying, ensure that you have prepared the following certified documents, each less than three months old:
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID.
- A 1-2 page motivation statement explaining why you deserve to be selected for this bursary.
- Certified copies of parents/guardians’ South African ID or a death certificate if applicable.
- A comprehensive CV detailing work experience and academic background.
Depending on your status (Undergrad, Scholar in Matric, Gap Year), additional documents will be required:
- Undergraduate students (studying in 2024 and earlier) must provide full academic records, proof of registration, and other supporting documents.
- Matric scholars need to submit Grade 11 and Grade 12 reports and proof of acceptance into a tertiary institution for 2025.
- Gap Year students should submit a matric certificate and relevant transcripts or affidavits if applicable.
Optional documents such as bursary agreements, disability forms, and proof of other funding sources (e.g., NSFAS) should also be included if applicable.
Selection Process
Once you have submitted your application, you may be required to undergo several stages of the selection process, including:
- Screening and shortlisting based on academic performance and supporting documents.
- An interview and psychometric assessments if shortlisted.
Successful candidates will be informed of their provisional acceptance, and they will be required to submit additional documents, including proof of registration at a tertiary institution for the 2025 academic year.
Recommended for you: Free CV Templates that Pass the Applicant Tracking System
The Volkswagen South Africa Bursary is a fantastic opportunity for talented and motivated South African students. It not only provides financial support but also offers a pathway to gain valuable work experience with one of the leading automotive brands in the world. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to your studies, don’t miss this opportunity to apply.