Telkom has opened its Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year, offering full funding to South African students in scarce technology and commercial fields. If you are a strong matriculant or current student in electrical engineering, IT, computer science, marketing or accounting, this Telkom bursary can cover your full studies and place you into Telkom’s graduate pipeline. Applications close on 31 July 2026, so prepare your documents and apply before the deadline.
About the Telkom Bursary Programme
Telkom is one of South Africa’s largest telecommunications and technology companies, providing fixed, mobile and digital services to millions of people across the country. As the sector moves rapidly into fibre, data and digital platforms, Telkom needs a steady supply of engineers, software specialists and commercial professionals to keep building the networks the country relies on.
The Telkom bursary programme was created to develop this talent locally, funding promising students through their degrees and bringing them into the business as graduates. Bursars are funded for the full duration of their qualification and join Telkom’s graduate development pipeline, which gives them a real route into employment once they complete their studies. The programme covers core engineering and computing fields as well as selected commercial specialisations that support the business, making it one of the more accessible corporate bursaries for young South Africans who are strong in mathematics and science.
What Is Covered
- Full tuition fees for your qualification
- Accommodation costs
- Prescribed books
- A living allowance
- Entry into Telkom’s graduate development pipeline after you qualify
Who Can Apply
- South African students pursuing undergraduate study in supported fields
- Core fields: Electrical Engineering (Light Current), Information Technology or Computer Science, Marketing and Accounting
- Postgraduate funding is available in Engineering (Light Current) and Computer Science through the programme
- For Engineering and Computer Science: a minimum NSC rating of 7 (80%) in Mathematics and Physical Sciences
- A minimum NSC rating of 5 (60%) in English and an aggregate rating of 5 (60%) for your Matric certificate
- Current tertiary students must have at least a 60% overall average with no failed subjects
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Required Documents
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copies of your most recent Matric or tertiary results
- A completed Telkom bursary application form
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised institution, where applicable
How to Apply
- Confirm that your Matric or tertiary results meet the minimum requirements for your chosen field.
- Collect certified copies of your ID and your latest results.
- Visit the official Telkom graduates and careers page to access the bursary application and form.
- Complete the application form in full and attach all required documents.
- Submit your application before the closing date and keep proof of submission.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Telkom Bursary Programme 2027 is 31 July 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
Engineering and computing degrees are among the most valuable qualifications a young South African can hold, but they are also among the most expensive, and the cost stops many capable students before they begin. The Telkom bursary removes that barrier and adds something just as important – a clear path into a job.
Because bursars join Telkom’s graduate pipeline, the programme connects your studies directly to employment in a growing technology sector. In a country where youth unemployment is severe and digital skills are in short supply, a fully funded degree linked to a graduate post is a rare and powerful opportunity. For students with strong marks in mathematics and science, this bursary can turn a difficult financial situation into a stable, well-paid career.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What marks do I need for the engineering and computer science bursary?
You generally need at least 80% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, 60% in English and a 60% aggregate for your Matric certificate.
Which fields does the bursary support?
Core fields are Electrical Engineering (Light Current), IT or Computer Science, Marketing and Accounting, with postgraduate funding in Engineering and Computer Science.
Will I get a job after the bursary?
Bursars are funded for the full degree and join Telkom’s graduate development pipeline, which provides a route into employment, though placement is confirmed during the programme.
Can current university students apply?
Yes. Current tertiary students in supported fields may apply if they have at least a 60% overall average and no failed subjects.
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