South African university students seeking financial assistance for the 2027 academic year can apply for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary Programme, which offers financial support to eligible students pursuing qualifications relevant to the company’s business needs.
The programme is intended for students who demonstrate academic potential and financial need. Depending on the applicable bursary terms, support may include university fees, prescribed books and a monthly allowance, along with mentorship and practical workplace exposure.
Applications close on 22 October 2026. Students who meet the requirements should prepare their supporting documents and submit their applications by email before the deadline.
Tiger Brands Bursary 2027: Key Details
- Bursary provider: Tiger Brands
- Programme: Graduate Bursary Programme
- Academic year: 2027
- Location: South Africa
- Study level: University undergraduate studies, with funding intended from second year
- Minimum academic average: 65% in Matric and first-semester university results
- Funding: Eligible prescribed study costs and other benefits specified by the programme
- Application method: Email
- Closing date: 22 October 2026
- Application email: graduatebursaries@tigerbrands.com
For the latest information, consult the official Tiger Brands Young Talent page.
About the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary Programme
Tiger Brands is a South African food and consumer goods company with operations that require skilled professionals in technical, commercial and business-related disciplines.
Through its bursary programme, the company aims to support students pursuing qualifications relevant to its business requirements. The opportunity may be particularly relevant to students who have completed their first semester at university, achieved the required academic results and need financial assistance to continue their studies.
Applicants should review the official programme requirements carefully because bursary places are limited and meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection.
Fields of Study Supported
Tiger Brands identifies several fields of study that are relevant to its business needs. These include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Food Science and Food Technology
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics
- Finance and Accounting, including the CA(SA) stream
- Data Science and Information Technology
The company’s website also lists specific required degrees for its graduate bursary. Students must therefore confirm that their exact qualification is eligible under the current application requirements before submitting an application.
Tiger Brands Bursary 2027 Requirements
Applicants should meet the programme’s stated eligibility requirements. These include:
- Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Applicants must have completed Matric.
- Applicants must currently be in their first year of university study and be applying for funding from their second year in 2027.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
- Applicants must show academic potential, particularly in relevant subjects such as Pure Mathematics, Accounting and Science.
- Applicants must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in Matric and their first-semester university results.
- Applicants must have been enrolled at an institution that meets Tiger Brands’ criteria for at least six months at the time of application.
Preference may be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, subject to the programme’s selection criteria.
Important: Applicants should confirm the eligible qualifications and all requirements directly on the official Tiger Brands website before applying.
What Does the Tiger Brands Bursary Cover?
Financial support can make a significant difference to students managing university expenses. According to Tiger Brands’ bursary information, the programme may provide support for:
- Prescribed university tuition fees
- Registration and examination fees
- Prescribed books or a book allowance
- A monthly allowance or stipend
- Mentorship and professional development
- Vacation work and practical exposure at company sites
The precise funding package and applicable conditions should be confirmed in the official bursary information. Students should not assume that every expense will automatically be covered.
Documents Required for the Application
Eligible students should prepare the supporting documents specified by Tiger Brands. These include:
- A certified copy of your South African identity document.
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Certified copies of your first-semester academic transcript or university results.
- Certified proof of your parents’ or guardians’ household income, or an affidavit where applicable.
Check that all documents are legible, complete and certified where required. Missing or unclear documents could affect the assessment of an application.
Applicants should also ensure that the email address and subject line follow the instructions provided by Tiger Brands.
How to Apply for Tiger Brands Bursaries 2027
Students who meet the requirements can follow these steps:
Step 1: Check your eligibility. Confirm that you are a South African citizen, meet the academic requirements and are applying for funding for your second year of university study in 2027.
Step 2: Prepare your documents. Gather your certified identity document, Matric certificate, first-semester academic results and proof of household income.
Step 3: Write your application email. Use the subject line Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary and include a brief message identifying your qualification, university and year of study.
Step 4: Attach your documents. Make sure the required supporting documents are included and can be opened clearly.
Step 5: Submit before the deadline. Send your application to:
Email: graduatebursaries@tigerbrands.com
Official website: https://www.tigerbrands.com/careers-youth.php
Keep a copy of your sent email and attachments for your records. If you need clarification about your qualification or supporting documents, contact Tiger Brands through its official channels.
Closing Date for Tiger Brands Bursaries 2027
The closing date for the Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year is 22 October 2026.
Students are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline so they have time to check their documents and correct any mistakes.
Late applications may not be considered. Applicants should rely on the company’s official application information for any changes to the deadline or requirements.
Tips for Students Applying for Bursary Funding
University funding applications require careful preparation. Before submitting your application, consider the following:
- Check that your academic results meet the minimum requirements.
- Confirm that your qualification appears in the eligible fields of study.
- Prepare certified documents in advance.
- Use a clear email subject line and provide accurate contact details.
- Keep copies of your application and any correspondence.
- Continue exploring other legitimate funding opportunities while awaiting a decision.
Students should also prepare a realistic budget for tuition, accommodation, transport, meals and learning materials. Understanding these expenses can help families plan for the academic year, particularly where bursary funding does not cover every cost.
Beware of Bursary Scams
Students should never pay an application fee to someone promising to secure a Tiger Brands bursary. Verify the opportunity through the company’s official website and avoid sharing sensitive information with unverified individuals.
Do not disclose banking PINs, passwords or one-time passwords. A genuine-looking logo or social media advertisement is not sufficient proof that a bursary message is authentic.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Tiger Brands Bursary 2027 closing date?
Applications close on 22 October 2026, according to the current programme information.
Can Matric students apply directly?
The graduate bursary is intended for students who are already in their first year of university and applying for funding from their second year. Matric completion alone does not meet this requirement.
What is the minimum academic average?
The stated minimum is 65% overall in Matric and first-semester university results. Applicants must also satisfy the other eligibility requirements.
How do I submit my application?
Prepare the required supporting documents and email them to graduatebursaries@tigerbrands.com, following the official application instructions.
Does the bursary guarantee employment after graduation?
Students should not assume that receiving bursary funding guarantees permanent employment. Any employment opportunities or obligations must be confirmed in the official programme terms.
Final Thoughts
The Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary Programme offers eligible South African university students an opportunity to seek financial support for the 2027 academic year. Students who meet the academic, financial and qualification requirements should review the official criteria, prepare their documents and apply before 22 October 2026.
Because bursary funding is competitive, applicants should verify every requirement and continue researching other suitable funding options.
Explore more opportunities: Visit LearnSETA.net for information about South African bursaries, learnerships, internships and career development opportunities.
Disclaimer: LearnSETA.net is an independent information platform and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Tiger Brands. The bursary provider determines eligibility, funding and selection. Always consult the official company website for the latest information.
Sources and references
Tiger Brands — Official Young Talent and Bursary Information.
Young TalentTiger Brands Corporate Website — official company background.