The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor), in partnership with the South African defence industry, has officially opened applications for its Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
This prestigious bursary targets academically strong South African students pursuing critical science, engineering, and technology qualifications needed to support the future of the country’s defence and security sector. Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
📅 Armscor Bursary 2026: Key Details
- Application Closing Date: 26 February 2026
- Study Location: South Africa
- Institution Type: Recognised public universities and universities of technology
- Study Mode: Full-time
🎓 Fields of Study Funded by the Armscor Bursary
The Armscor Bursary Programme focuses on disciplines aligned with scarce and high-demand skills within the defence and aerospace industries, including:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biochemistry / Chemistry and Physics
- Computer Science / Information Technology (IT)
- Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Electronics Engineering / Electrical Engineering
- Human Kinetics and Ergonomics Science
- Mechanical Engineering / Mechatronics Engineering
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Naval Engineering / Marine Engineering
These qualifications are critical to strengthening South Africa’s defence capabilities and technological innovation.
💰 What the Armscor Bursary Covers
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, allowing students to focus fully on their studies. Covered expenses include:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Monthly living allowance
- Vacation work opportunities (where available)
In addition to funding, bursary recipients gain exposure to the defence industry, enhancing their long-term employability.
✅ Eligibility Requirements for the Armscor Bursary 2026
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be currently in Matric (2025) or have completed Matric
- Achieved minimum achievement levels 5, 6, and 7 in:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- English
- Be studying or planning to study full-time in 2026 in one of the listed fields
- Be registered or intending to register 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 annum)
- Show a genuine interest in a career within the defence industry
- Be from a previously disadvantaged background
⚠️ Failure to meet any of the above requirements will result in the application being unsuccessful.
📝 How to Apply for the Armscor Bursary 2026
👉 Download the Armscor Bursary Application Form 2026
(Use the official Armscor website or authorised platforms only.)
📄 Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- Matric mid-year results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if Matric completed)
- Full academic record (if currently studying at tertiary level)
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of household income:
- Latest payslips
- Affidavit (if unemployed or informal trader)
- Proof of SASSA grant
- Death certificate (if parent/guardian is 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
Send your completed application and 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 Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks after the closing date
- If no response is received within this period, consider the 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 already studying)
⭐ Why Apply for the Armscor Bursary?
- Funding for scarce and high-demand qualifications
- Direct exposure to South Africa’s defence and engineering sector
- Strong foundation for a long-term professional career
- Financial support covering both academic and living costs
- Opportunity to contribute to national security and technological advancement
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Armscor bursary fully funded?
Yes. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and a living allowance.
Can first-year students apply for the Armscor bursary?
Yes. Matric learners and students entering first year in 2026 are eligible, provided they meet the academic requirements.
Does Armscor require bursary holders to work for them after graduation?
Yes. Bursary recipients may be required to enter into a work-back or service agreement within the defence industry.
Are private universities funded by this bursary?
No. Only recognised public tertiary institutions in South Africa are eligible.
How competitive is the Armscor bursary?
The bursary is highly competitive due to limited funding and the specialised nature of the fields supported.
Final Note
The Armscor Bursary Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for academically talented students who want to build careers in engineering, science, and defence-related technologies. With comprehensive funding and industry exposure, it offers a powerful pathway into one of South Africa’s most strategic sectors.
