Tiger Brands is inviting South African students to apply for its Graduate Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. If you are a first-year undergraduate moving into second year in 2027, with a 65% average and proven financial need, the bursary covers your tuition, accommodation, prescribed books and a monthly stipend. Applications are sent by email and close on 22 October 2026, so gather your certified documents now.
About the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary
Tiger Brands is one of South Africa’s best-known branded food and consumer goods companies. Its products sit in kitchens across the country, and the business relies on engineers, food scientists, supply chain planners, accountants and data specialists to keep them on shelves.
The Graduate Bursary Programme is how the company builds that talent pipeline early. Instead of waiting for graduates to arrive on the job market, it funds promising students while they study and connects them with industry professionals who can guide their careers. Bursary holders may also get vacation work and practical exposure at Tiger Brands sites.
For students from households that cannot pay university fees, this kind of funding is often the difference between finishing a degree and dropping out. The programme targets strong performers in pure Mathematics, Accounting and Science who need financial support.
What Is Covered
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed books
- A monthly stipend (amount: confirmed during the application process)
- Access to industry professionals for guidance and support
- Possible vacation work and practical exposure at Tiger Brands sites
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Who Can Apply
- South African citizen who has completed Matric
- Currently in the first year of undergraduate study and entering second year in 2027
- Studying at a recognised South African university and enrolled for at least 6 months at the time of application
- Proven financial need
- Strong academic potential in pure Mathematics, Accounting and Science
- Minimum overall average of 65% in Matric and semester 1
- Preferably studying in a field critical to Tiger Brands’ business, such as Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial), Food Science or Technology, Supply Chain and Logistics, Finance or Accounting (CA(SA) stream), or Data Science and Information Technology
- Preference may be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Certified academic transcript or record for the first semester of your first year
- Parents’ or guardians’ proof of household income: latest payslips, an affidavit if unemployed, or proof of pension or SASSA grant if applicable
How to Apply
- Check that you meet every eligibility requirement above, especially the 65% average and second-year entry in 2027.
- Get certified copies of all required documents. All of them are compulsory.
- Scan your documents clearly and combine them so they are easy to open.
- Write a new email to graduatebursaries@tigerbrands.com with the subject line “Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary”. No application form is required.
- Attach your documents and send the email before the closing date.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary 2027 is 22 October 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains among the highest in the world, and a qualification is still one of the strongest protections against long-term joblessness. But funding is the first barrier for many families, and every year capable students leave university because the money runs out.
A bursary from a major employer does more than pay fees. It gives you a mentor network, real workplace exposure and a clear link to a company that hires in the fields it funds. If you are already doing well in your first year, this application could secure the rest of your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need work experience?
No. This is a study bursary for undergraduate students. Vacation work may be offered as practical exposure.
Can I apply if I am a first-time first-year student?
No. The programme is for students currently in first year who will move into second year in 2027.
Is there an application form?
No. You apply by email with your certified documents.
What happens after I finish my degree?
Vacation work and exposure at Tiger Brands sites may be offered, but employment terms are confirmed during the application process.
