If you are planning to study Civil Engineering, Geology, Geochemistry or Environmental Sciences at a South African university in 2026, the Jones & Wagener Bursary
South African students planning to pursue studies in Civil Engineering, Geology, Geochemistry, or Environmental Sciences in 2026 now have an opportunity to apply for the Jones & Wagener Bursary Programme.
This bursary programme is aimed at academically strong students who want to build careers within engineering, environmental consulting, infrastructure development, mining support services, and water systems management. In addition to financial support, the programme also provides workplace exposure and potential long-term career opportunities within one of South Africa’s established consulting engineering firms.
Fields of Study Supported
- BEng Civil Engineering
- BSc Civil Engineering
- Geology
- Geochemistry
- Environmental Sciences
Minimum Academic Requirements
- At least 75% in Mathematics
- At least 75% in Physical Science
Who May Apply
- Grade 12 learners
- Current university students
Financial Support May Include
- Tuition fees
- Possible accommodation support
- Possible textbook allowance
Additional Programme Features
- Six weeks paid vacation work during university recess periods
- Work-back obligation equal to the bursary support period
Important Dates
- Closing Date: 31 July 2026
- Outcome Notification: Applicants who do not receive feedback by 31 October 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful
Fields Supported Through the Bursary
Civil Engineering
Students studying Civil Engineering may work in areas involving:
- road construction
- bridges
- dams
- municipal systems
- water infrastructure
- mining infrastructure
Civil Engineering remains one of South Africa’s strongest technical career fields.
Geology
Geologists work with:
- earth structures
- mineral exploration
- groundwater systems
- environmental stability
- engineering site assessments
This field supports both mining and infrastructure sectors.
Geochemistry
Geochemistry specialists focus on:
- soil analysis
- groundwater contamination
- mineral composition
- environmental pollutants
This discipline plays an important role in environmental protection and sustainable mining operations.
Environmental Sciences
Environmental professionals assist organisations with:
- pollution reduction
- environmental compliance
- biodiversity management
- water resource protection
- sustainability planning
Environmental careers continue to grow as regulations and sustainability requirements increase.
What the Bursary Covers
At minimum, the bursary provides support for university tuition fees.
Depending on funding availability and final selection decisions, additional support may also include:
- accommodation assistance
- textbook allowances
This can provide meaningful support for students facing financial challenges while studying.
Paid Vacation Work Experience
An important feature of the bursary programme is the inclusion of six weeks paid vacation work exposure.
Students may complete workplace experience at:
- Rivonia offices
- Centurion offices
Vacation work usually takes place during:
- July university recess
- December university recess
This practical exposure allows students to:
- apply theoretical knowledge in real projects
- gain workplace readiness
- build professional connections
- understand consulting engineering environments
- strengthen their CV before graduating
Structured technical workplace exposure is a major advantage for engineering and science students.
Work-Back Agreement After Graduation
Students who receive bursary funding will be required to work for Jones & Wagener after graduation for a period equal to the funding received.
For example:
- 3 years of funding = 3 years work-back commitment
This arrangement benefits graduates because it:
- provides employment after graduation
- offers industry mentorship
- supports professional development
- helps graduates gain early technical experience
Many graduates struggle to secure their first engineering role, making this type of structured employment pathway highly valuable.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- be a South African citizen
- be studying or planning to study one of the supported qualifications
- achieve at least 75% in Mathematics
- achieve at least 75% in Physical Science
- be enrolled at a recognised South African university
Applicants who do not meet the academic requirements are unlikely to be considered.
Selection Process
Applications are assessed based on several factors.
Academic Performance
Academic results are one of the most important selection criteria.
Applicants should provide:
- latest school results
- university transcripts
- academic performance records
Students requiring financial assistance may receive additional consideration.
Additional Evaluation Factors
Jones & Wagener may also consider:
- career alignment with company services
- communication skills
- leadership potential
- motivation for engineering or environmental careers
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- certified copy of ID
- latest academic results
- full academic transcript
- updated CV
- recent colour photograph
- personal information and ID details
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE JONES & WAGENER BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 INTAKE HERE
Helpful Job Application Guides
