Careers · Engineering & technology

How to become an engineer in South Africa

Engineers use maths and science to design and build things that solve problems, from roads and power to machines and computers.

From R 35 000/mo · median ~R 65 000In demand
Starting payR 35 000/mo
Study time4 years
QualificationDegree, NQF 8
Register withECSA
DemandIn demand

What it costs and how to pay

Engineering costs about R50,000 to R80,000 a year at a university. NSFAS and company bursaries can pay for you.

Engineering has more bursaries than almost any field, because companies need engineers.

NSFAS

NSFAS pays for engineering at public universities and TVET colleges, if your family earns under R350,000 a year.

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Company bursaries

Many big companies (like mines, Eskom, Sasol, and engineering firms) give engineering bursaries, often with a job after you finish. Apply to the companies directly.

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Government and university bursaries

The government, universities, and funds like the Cyril Ramaphosa bursary also fund engineering students.

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Ready to apply?

When you have picked a way in, apply before the closing date.

Questions people ask

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