Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary For 2026. If you are a talented young South African student aspiring to build a future in engineering, IT, or data sciences, the Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary for 2026 offers a golden opportunity. This prestigious programme not only eases your financial burden but also opens doors to mentorship and industry exposure with one of South Africa’s leading employers.
Below, we explore everything you need to know about this sought-after bursary from eligibility criteria and benefits to required documents and the step-by-step application process.
About Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA)
Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA), established in 1946, is a significant player in the country’s automotive sector. With its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape, VWSA produces the popular VW Polo and Cross Polo, along with critical components for the broader Volkswagen Group worldwide. The company is owned by Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft (VWAG) in Germany, which stands as South Africa’s largest German investment.
Beyond business, VWSA is a pillar of community development, recognised as the Eastern Cape’s largest private employer. Through initiatives like “Volkswagen for Good”, the company actively supports literacy, education, entrepreneurship, and community volunteering.
VWSA Commitment to Community Development
Here are some of the standout community projects run by VWSA:
- Literacy for Kwa-Nobuhle: Ensuring children in Uitenhage can read fluently by age 10.
- Show of Hands Volunteer Programme: Mobilising VWSA employees and their families to volunteer for local causes.
- The Children of VW Bursary: Supporting children of VW employees with strong academic records to attend top schools and receive extra lessons in Mathematics and Science.
- Young Entrepreneurs Programme: Teaching kids aged 7 to 15 the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
This commitment underlines why the Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary for 2026 is more than just financial support it’s an investment in building a stronger South Africa.
About the VWSA Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
The Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary targets students registered for full-time studies in 2025, effectively preparing them for careers starting in 2026.
- Mechatronics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Technology
- Software Development / Computer Science
- Data Sciences
Whether you dream of designing cutting-edge automotive systems or developing next-gen data solutions, this bursary paves the way.
What Does the VWSA Bursary Cover?
This bursary is designed to comprehensively support your education. Here’s a breakdown:
| Bursary Coverage | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Registration Fees | Fully paid at your accredited institution |
| Accommodation & Meals | Covered for on-campus or accredited off-campus arrangements |
| Books & Stationery | Provided according to course requirements |
| Laptop | Supplied to assist with your studies |
| Vacation Work | Hands-on training during university breaks |
| Mentoring & Development | Guidance from experienced VW professionals |
| Additional Academic Support | As needed to help you excel |
Obligations of VWSA Bursary Recipients
As a beneficiary, you’re expected to give back. The VWSA bursary includes a work-back obligation, meaning for each year of funding received, you’ll be required to work at VW South Africa. Failing to honour this agreement may result in repayment of all bursary benefits.
Furthermore, any student discovered not to be studying full-time or holding paid employment during the bursary period risks immediate termination and will have to repay all funds received.
Who Can Apply for the Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary for 2026?
General Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Registered for full-time undergraduate studies in 2025 at any DHET/CHE-accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Note: This bursary is not open to Master’s or Doctoral students.
Academic Requirements
| Level | Minimum Average Required |
|---|---|
| Grade 12 (Matric) | Bachelor’s pass with at least 70% average |
| Tertiary level (current students) | 65% average across subjects |
Additional Selection Stages
Depending on where you are in the process, you may need to undergo:
- Screening and shortlisting
- Interviews
- Psychometric assessments
Employment Equity
Preference is given to applicants from Designated Groups, supporting VWSA’s Transformation and Employment Equity goals.
How to Apply for the VWSA Bursary
When applications open, carefully follow these steps:
- Download the application form (available on the official VWSA careers or bursaries page).
- Complete all sections honestly and thoroughly.
- Attach ALL required documents (details below).
Incomplete applications or misrepresented information will be immediately rejected.
Note: Applications are currently closed. If you do not hear back by 31 October 2024, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Required Documents for Your Application
Preparing your documents meticulously is crucial. All certified documents must be less than 3 months old.
Documents Checklist
All Applicants
- Certified copy of valid South African ID
- 1-2 page Motivational letter: Why should you be selected?
- Certified Parents’/Guardian’s ID or Death Certificate
- Comprehensive CV detailing your academic and work background
For Undergrad Students (2024 & prior)
- Certified Full Tertiary Academic Records for all years
- Certified copy of latest June 2024 academic transcripts
- Certified Matric certificate
- 2024 University Fee Statements and lease agreement if off-campus
- Certified 2024 Proof of Registration
For Current Matric Students
- Certified Grade 11 final report (with school stamp)
- Certified Grade 12 Term 2 report
- Acceptance letter from your chosen institution for 2025
For Gap Year Students
- Certified Matric certificate
- If applicable, latest academic transcripts
Optional Supporting Documents
- Bursary/NSFAS agreements (if funded elsewhere)
- Disability support documents (EEA1 form & medical diagnosis)
- Additional 2025 acceptance letters
If Provisionally Accepted
- Certified Matric certificate
- 2025 Proof of Registration
Also, applicants under 18 must submit a POPI consent form signed by a parent/guardian with certified proof of their ID.
Why the VWSA Bursary is a Game-Changer
Not only does the Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary for 2026 relieve your financial stress, but it also sets you up for a secure career with one of South Africa’s leading automotive giants. You’ll gain real-world experience, mentorship, and could seamlessly transition into permanent roles after completing your studies.
FAQs About Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary
When do applications for the Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary open for 2026?
Applications are typically advertised on the official VWSA careers website and close around September each year. Always check their site early in the year for the exact opening and closing dates.
Is there a minimum work-back period required after graduation?
Yes. For every year that VWSA funds your studies, you’ll be required to work at VW South Africa for one year. For example, a three-year bursary means three years of work-back.
Can students who are already funded by NSFAS or another bursary still apply?
Yes, but you must declare this in your application and provide your funding agreement. VWSA will evaluate whether additional funding is appropriate.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) Bursary for 2026 is more than just a scholarship it’s a stepping stone to a promising engineering or IT career, all while contributing to South Africa’s automotive innovation. If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents meticulously and apply as soon as applications open.
