The Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme 2026 is aimed at harnessing outstanding achievers at both Grade 12 and tertiary level. Through this bursary, Mercedes‑Benz South Africa (MBSA) offers students financial assistance and experiential workplace learning to help them realise their full academic and professional potential. Successful candidates will receive funding to pursue a qualification of their choice while gaining valuable industry exposure with MBSA in East London during university vacation periods.
The Bursary Sponsor
Mercedes‑Benz South Africa (MBSA) is a subsidiary of the global Mercedes‑Benz Group, producing passenger cars and commercial vehicles in East London. The company is committed to fostering transformation and developing high‑calibre professionals from diverse backgrounds. The bursary programme forms part of MBSA’s investment in education and skills development for South African youth.
What Is This Bursary Programme?
The programme provides comprehensive financial support and real‑world work experience. Recipients receive:
- Tuition and registration fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Prescribed stationery and allowances
- Opportunity to work at Mercedes‑Benz East London during university vacation periods to gain hands‑on experience
Bursars can study at the university of their choice in South Africa, and the programme lasts for the duration of the qualification, provided academic requirements are met.
Who Can Apply
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Currently in Grade 12 or enrolled at a recognised South African tertiary institution as a full‑time student
- Achieve an overall Grade 12 average of at least 70 % and a minimum of 65 % in Mathematics and/or Physical Science for engineering streams
- For tertiary students: have a minimum average of 65 % in your most recent semester/year and provide your matric certificate
- Preferably reside in the Eastern Cape and/or be a child of an MBSA employee (advantageous but not mandatory)
- Intend to study in one of the following fields:
- Computer Engineering, Information Technology or Software Development
- Industrial, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering
- Metrology, Mechatronics or Metallurgy
- Analytical Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (BSc)
- Finance, Accounting or Economics
- Supply Chain or Logistics Management
- Human Kinetics & Ergonomics
- Be unemployed (the bursary is not open to current MBSA employees)
Closing Date
28 November 2025 – No late or incomplete applications will be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the official Mercedes‑Benz careers portal. Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- A comprehensive CV (preferably in PDF format)
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Grade 12 learners: a certified copy of your latest third‑term results
- Tertiary students: certified copies of your matric certificate and most recent academic transcript
Ensure that all documents are uploaded as part of the online application; applications submitted via email will not be considered.
For enquiries (not applications), contact the Mercedes‑Benz recruiting team through the details provided on the careers portal.