The Transnet Bursary Programme (Non-Technical) is a strategic initiative to develop a pipeline of highly skilled professionals for South Africa’s economy. Aimed at top-performing South African youth under 25, the programme supports current and future university students pursuing qualifications aligned to Transnet’s strategic priorities in scarce and critical skills. If you are planning to study—or are already studying—in fields like Accounting Science, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Information Systems, Data Sciences or Geographical Information Systems, this guide explains who can apply, the competencies Transnet seeks, key dates, and exactly how to submit a strong application.
What is the Transnet Bursary Programme (Non-Technical)?
The Transnet Bursary Programme is an annual funding initiative that supports academic study in selected disciplines to address national skills shortages. The non-technical stream focuses on critical business and data-driven disciplines that underpin large, complex organisations like Transnet. Bursaries are awarded to high-achieving learners and students who meet academic, equity, and competency criteria and who demonstrate the ability to contribute meaningfully after graduation.
Key aim: build future talent in scarce and critical skills through study support for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate pathways at recognised South African universities.
Who can apply for the Transnet Bursary Programme?
Transnet evaluates two main applicant groups. In both groups, applicants must be South African citizens, under the age of 25, and aligned to the approved fields of study.
Current or completed Grade 12 learners (matric)
To qualify as a school-leaver for the Transnet Bursary Programme you should have:
- Minimum Level 5 (60%+) in English and relevant subjects, based on mid-year Grade 12 results or final Grade 12 certificate.
- Clear intention to study one of the approved qualifications below at a South African university.
Approved non-technical qualifications (undergraduate):
- National Diploma / BSc in Computer Science
- National Diploma / BSc in Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- National Diploma / BSc in Information Systems
- National Diploma / BSc in Environmental Science
- National Diploma / BSc in Data Sciences
- National Diploma / BCom in Accounting Science
Current tertiary students
If you are already enrolled at a South African university, you may apply for the Transnet Bursary Programme provided you are studying one of the same approved fields:
- National Diploma / BSc in Computer Science
- National Diploma / BSc in Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- National Diploma / BSc in Information Systems
- National Diploma / BSc in Environmental Science
- National Diploma / BSc in Data Sciences
- National Diploma / BCom in Accounting Science
Competencies Transnet seeks
Beyond strong academics, Transnet looks for attributes that predict success in large, collaborative environments. When you apply to the Transnet Bursary Programme, demonstrate evidence of:
- Clear, professional written and verbal communication
- Basic computer literacy and comfort with digital tools
- Teamwork and the ability to collaborate across functions
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Attention to detail and quality standards
- Willingness to learn and take feedback
- Strong interpersonal skills
Use your CV and motivation letter to give concise examples—school projects, society roles, part-time work, or community initiatives—that show these competencies in action. READ: How to Write a South African CV That Gets Interviews
Equity and inclusion
In line with Transnet’s Employment Equity Plan and operating division targets, preference may be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Meeting equity objectives is part of the programme’s mandate and does not replace academic and competency standards; it works alongside them to broaden opportunity.
What support does the bursary provide?
The Transnet Bursary Programme provides formal study support toward approved qualifications. The detailed benefits (such as tuition, registration, learning materials and other study-related support) are communicated in official documentation and may vary by year and institution. Always rely on the official portal for the current confirmation of coverage and conditions.
Important dates, locations and outcomes
- Closing date: 06 October 2025. Applications must reach HR before the closing date indicated.
- Locations: Various locations across South Africa (study at recognised South African universities).
- Outcome timeline: If you have not been contacted by end of February 2026, consider your application unsuccessful.
Plan ahead: request documents (certified ID, academic results) early so you can submit a complete application well before the deadline.
How to apply for the Transnet Bursary Programme (step by step)
Follow these steps to submit a compliant, competitive application:
- Confirm eligibility
Ensure you meet age (<25), citizenship (South African), academic (60%+ in required subjects), and field-of-study criteria. - Prepare documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Grade 12 mid-year results or final certificate (for school-leavers)
- Latest university transcript (for current tertiary students)
- Proof of application or registration at a South African university
- Concise CV and short motivation (1 page) highlighting competencies
- Apply online
Submit via the official portal:
Apply here: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/3218?c=transnettalentportal&sq=req3218 - Double-check before submitting
Review spelling, results, correct qualification selection, and that all mandatory fields and uploads are complete. - Monitor your email
Keep your phone and email reachable. Add the portal’s domain to safe senders to avoid missing updates.
How to strengthen your Transnet Bursary Programme application
Align your motivation to Transnet’s objectives
In 6–8 focused sentences, link your chosen field (for example, Accounting Science or Data Sciences) to real business value: cost control, risk insights, ESG reporting, network optimisation, or service reliability.
Showcase measurable results
Use short bullet points with numbers where possible: “Led a 4-person team to produce a GIS map that reduced survey time by 20%,” or “Improved accounting society’s monthly reconciliation accuracy from 92% to 99%.”
Evidence your competencies
Tie competencies to examples: teamwork (group capstone), attention to detail (lab or case study), problem-solving (coding project, Excel financial model), willingness to learn (MOOC or short course).
Keep your package clean and complete
Name files clearly (Name_Surname_ID.pdf, Name_Surname_Results.pdf). Submit PDF where possible. Ensure scans are legible.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying
- Missing the closing date (06 October 2025). Submit early to avoid portal traffic or document issues.
- Applying for a non-approved field. Only the listed non-technical qualifications are eligible.
- Omitting results or sending unreadable scans. Poor document quality can disqualify an otherwise strong application.
- Generic motivations. Tailor your message to Transnet’s operating context and your selected discipline.
- Inconsistent contact details. Use an email address you monitor and ensure your phone number is correct.
Frequently asked questions about the Transnet Bursary Programme
1. Is the bursary open to postgraduate students?
Yes—provided your postgraduate programme aligns with one of the approved non-technical fields and you meet the other criteria.
2. Can I apply if I am 25 or older?
The programme is targeted at applicants under 25. Review the official portal for any exceptions or related opportunities.
3. What if I do not hear back?
If you are not contacted by end of February 2026, consider the application unsuccessful. You can re-apply in the next cycle if eligible.
4. May I apply if I study at a private institution?
Eligibility is tied to recognised South African universities and approved qualifications. Check the official portal for institution requirements.
Useful resources to boost your application
Strengthen your academic profile and application with these practical guides:
- Learnerships in South Africa: Apply Now – actionable pathways to earn while you learn.
- How to Apply for Internships in South Africa – build experience and references.
- Free Online Courses to Boost Your Career in South Africa – close skills gaps quickly.
- How to Write a South African CV That Gets Interviews – present your achievements clearly.
(If these resources are on your site, interlink them using their live URLs to improve SEO and user navigation.)
Conclusion
The Transnet Bursary Programme (Non-Technical) is a credible, high-impact route for talented South African youth to access university study in scarce and critical disciplines that matter to the country’s infrastructure and logistics future. If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare a sharp, evidence-based application and submit before 06 October 2025. Focus your motivation on how your field will add measurable value in a complex, data-driven business like Transnet. With planning and a complete application, you can significantly improve your chances of success.
