The Armscor, in partnership with the South African defence industry, invites eligible students to apply for the Armscor Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 26 February 2026
Bursary Location: South Africa (Studies at recognised public tertiary institutions)
Fields of study funded by the Armscor bursary
Bursaries will be awarded for full-time studies in disciplines aligned to the future needs of the defence industry, including:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biochemistry / Chemistry and Physics
- Computer Science / Information Technology (IT) / Cyber Security / Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Electronics / Electrical Engineering
- Human Kinetics and Ergonomics Science
- Mechanical Engineering / Mechatronics Engineering
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Naval Engineering / Marine Engineering
The Armscor Bursary Scheme aims to address the shortage of critical science and engineering skills within the defence sector. Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Expenses covered by the Armscor bursary
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Living allowance
- Vacation work opportunities (where available)
This support ensures that students can focus fully on their academic studies while gaining exposure to the defence industry.
Eligibility requirements for the Armscor bursary
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be currently in Matric (2025) or have completed Matric
- Have achieved minimum levels 5, 6, and 7 in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English
- Be studying or intend to study full-time in 2026 in one of the listed fields
- Be studying or planning to study at a recognised public tertiary institution in South Africa
- Have a strong academic record
- Demonstrate financial need (combined household income not exceeding R1 million per year)
- Show interest in pursuing a career in the defence industry
- Be from a previously disadvantaged background
Failure to meet any of the above criteria will result in the application not being considered.
How to apply
Click here to download the Armscor Bursary Application Form 2026
Supporting documents required
Submit clear, certified copies of the following documents with your completed application form:
- South African ID document
- Matric mid-year results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if Matric completed)
- Full academic record (if currently at tertiary level)
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents or death certificates (if deceased)
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (latest payslips, affidavit if unemployed or informal trader, proof of SASSA grant, or death certificate if deceased)
Applications with missing documents may be disqualified.
Submission methods
Applications must be submitted before 26 February 2026 using one of the following methods:
Email application
Email your completed application and supporting documents to:
bursaries@armscor.co.za
Email subject line:
Armscor Bursary Application – Full Qualification Name
Postal application
Send applications to:
Senior Manager: Learning & Organisation Development
Armscor LTD
Private Bag X337
Pretoria
0001
Shortlisting and additional requirements
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks after the closing date.
- If you do not receive feedback within this period, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit additional documents, including:
- Final Matric results
- Proof of university acceptance or registration
- Student number
- Official fee statement (if currently studying)
Why apply for the Armscor bursary?
- Funding for scarce and high-demand qualifications
- Exposure to South Africa’s defence and engineering sector
- Strong foundation for a long-term professional career
- Financial support that covers both academic and living costs
This bursary offers a valuable opportunity for academically strong students who aspire to contribute to South Africa’s defence and technology capabilities.