South African students can now apply for the 2026 Nestlé Future Talent Bursary, an opportunity designed to support promising youth in their academic journey. Applications are open until 9 January 2026, and students in Gauteng and across South Africa are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
- What Is the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary?
- Fields Covered by the Bursary in 2026
- Who Can Apply? Nestlé Bursary Eligibility Criteria
- Benefits of the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
- How to Apply for the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
- Real-World Impact: Nestlé’s Ongoing Commitment to SA Youth
- Where to Study: List of Accredited Institutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why You Should Apply Today
This bursary aims to remove financial barriers, helping the next generation of innovators, engineers, and digital leaders to succeed.
What Is the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary?
The Nestlé Future Talent Bursary is part of Nestlé’s commitment to empowering youth through education. As one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies, Nestlé understands the value of developing future leaders who align with its values of sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility.
By offering this bursary, Nestlé provides support to academically deserving students who may otherwise struggle to afford tertiary education.
Fields Covered by the Bursary in 2026
Nestlé will award bursaries to students pursuing degrees in high-demand sectors that align with its business and social priorities. The bursary covers the following fields of study:
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Food Science & Technology
- Brand Management
- Media Communications
- Social Media Marketing
- Digital / E-commerce
- Computer Science
- Data Analysis
- Information Technology
- Innovation
These are sectors where Nestlé actively seeks young professionals and future talent.
RELATED: Apply for the 2026 Marula Bursary in South Africa
Who Can Apply? Nestlé Bursary Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be between 17 and 25 years old
- Have completed Matric with an average of at least 65%
- Be currently studying or accepted to study full-time in one of the eligible fields
- Be registered or planning to register at an accredited South African tertiary institution
- Current students must have maintained a minimum average of 65% in their latest academic year
Applicants who do not meet these requirements will not be considered.
Benefits of the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
This bursary offers more than just financial support. Successful applicants can expect:
- Full or partial coverage of tuition fees
- Textbook and learning material support
- Access to industry mentors
- Possible internship or graduate opportunities with Nestlé in future
The programme is structured to give students a strong academic foundation, as well as exposure to Nestlé’s global operations.
How to Apply for the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
To apply, follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official Nestlé application portal:
Nestlé Future Talent Bursary Application 2026 - Use application code: Nestle 2026
- Prepare and upload clear, certified copies of the following:
- Your ID document
- Your most recent academic results (must be on your institution’s letterhead)
- Proof of registration or admission at a South African university or college
Applications close on 9 January 2026. Late or incomplete applications will be rejected.
Real-World Impact: Nestlé’s Ongoing Commitment to SA Youth
Nestlé South Africa continues to invest in youth development. The Future Talent Bursary is part of its broader commitment to the Nestlé Needs Youth initiative, launched globally to prepare young people for employment.
According to Stats SA, South Africa’s youth unemployment rate stood at over 43% in 2025. Bursaries like this play a key role in reducing that figure by improving access to tertiary education and employment pathways.
Where to Study: List of Accredited Institutions
The bursary is valid for study at any accredited South African tertiary institution, including:
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- North-West University (NWU)
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Make sure your chosen institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Nestlé bursary cover all study expenses?
The bursary can cover tuition, textbooks, and learning materials, depending on the student’s financial need and academic performance.
Can first-year students or Matriculants apply for the 2026 Nestlé bursary?
Yes. If you’re completing Matric in 2025 and planning to study full-time in 2026 in one of the listed fields, you are eligible to apply—provided your preliminary results meet the 65% minimum average.
Can students from private universities apply?
Yes, but only if the private institution is fully accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in South Africa.
Does Nestlé offer career opportunities to bursary recipients?
Yes. Students funded by the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary may be considered for internships, graduate programmes, or full-time roles after graduation, depending on company needs and student performance.
Why You Should Apply Today
The Nestlé Future Talent Bursary 2026 is more than a funding opportunity—it’s a gateway to a career with one of the world’s most respected companies. If you meet the criteria and have a passion for any of the listed fields, this bursary could be your stepping stone to a brighter future.
Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself.