The Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme offers South African students a life-changing opportunity to study, gain practical experience, and start a career with one of the world’s leading automotive brands. The Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme 2026 Intake is now open for applications, targeting ambitious learners who are eager to build their futures in engineering, technology, and business at the company’s manufacturing facility in East London.
Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme Overview
- Applications Open: 21 October 2025
- Closing Date: 28 November 2025
- Start Date: Immediate upon selection
- Location: Mercedes-Benz South Africa Ltd Manufacturing, East London
- Working Time: Full-time
What the Bursary Covers
The Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme is designed to ease the financial burden of tertiary education. The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees at an accredited South African university
- Meals, accommodation, and stationery
- Allowances to support living expenses
- Work experience at the East London plant during university holidays
All bursary recipients will study at a university of their choice, subject to programme conditions. This unique combination of funding and practical learning makes the MBSA Bursary one of the most sought-after opportunities in the country.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The bursary programme seeks South African citizens who have demonstrated academic excellence and potential. Preference will be given to applicants from the Eastern Cape region and to children of MBSA employees.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
For Grade 12 learners:
- A minimum overall average of 70%
- At least 65% in Mathematics and/or Physical Science (for engineering streams)
- Submission of the latest third-term results
For tertiary students:
- A minimum average of 65% in the most recent semester
- Submission of a final matric certificate and full academic record
Applications must include:
- A CV (preferably in PDF format)
- Certified copies of academic results and ID document
- Proof of residence (if available)
Only online applications will be accepted. Emails and incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Study Fields Covered
The 2026 bursary intake supports a wide range of study disciplines that align with Mercedes-Benz’s business and manufacturing goals. Eligible fields include:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Chemical, and Mechatronics)
- Computer Engineering, Software Development, and IT
- Analytical Chemistry and Metrology
- Finance, Accounting, and Economics
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics
- Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
- Metallurgy
Students pursuing full-time studies in these areas—especially first-year students—are encouraged to apply.
Why Apply for the Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme?
The Mercedes-Benz South Africa Bursary Programme 2026 Intake is not just about financial aid. It’s a gateway to a rewarding career with a global company renowned for innovation, precision, and quality. Bursary holders gain exposure to real-world automotive manufacturing processes, mentorship from industry professionals, and access to future employment opportunities within the company.
Moreover, MBSA’s commitment to employment equity and inclusion ensures that the programme is open to all qualifying South Africans, including persons with disabilities and foreign nationals who meet visa requirements under the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.
Employee Benefits at Mercedes-Benz
While the bursary itself is primarily academic, successful candidates who later join MBSA as employees enjoy a variety of benefits, including:
- Health and wellness support
- Employee discounts
- Workplace events and networking opportunities
- Mobile phone and digital access benefits
Read more: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have
How to Apply
- Prepare your documents:
Gather and certify all required documents — your CV, ID, and academic results (Grade 12 learners submit third-term results; tertiary students submit their full academic record and matric certificate). - Visit the official careers portal:
Go to https://group.mercedes-benz.com/career/ and find the Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme 2026 Intake (East London) listing. - Complete the online form:
Fill in your personal and academic details accurately and upload all supporting documents in PDF format. - Submit your application:
Review everything for accuracy before clicking Submit. Applications sent via email will not be accepted. - Wait for feedback:
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don’t hear back within six weeks after 28 November 2025, consider your application unsuccessful.
Also check: Toyota Tsusho Africa Bursary 2026
The Mercedes-Benz Bursary Programme offers more than education funding—it provides a launchpad for future leaders in engineering, technology, and finance. If you’re driven by excellence and aspire to work for a company that values talent, innovation, and diversity, this is your chance to accelerate your journey toward a successful career.
Applications close on 28 November 2025. Ensure all required documents are attached before submitting your application online.