South African university students studying science, engineering, and other high-demand fields now have an opportunity to secure financial support for their education.
Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa has opened applications for the Study Buddy Bursary Programme 2026, a funding initiative designed to support talented students while developing the next generation of industry professionals.
Many capable students struggle to complete their degrees because of financial pressure. Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and daily living expenses can quickly become overwhelming.
The Study Buddy Bursary Programme aims to ease that burden by providing comprehensive financial support while also giving students valuable exposure to the workplace.
Students who are currently studying toward science, engineering, or other strategic qualifications and entering their second or third year in 2026 are encouraged to apply.
Applications close on 13 March 2026.
Overview of the CCBSA Study Buddy Bursary Programme
The Study Buddy Bursary Programme focuses on supporting academically strong students who show potential to contribute to key industries.
Programme details include:
Organisation: Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa
Programme: Study Buddy Bursary Programme
Eligible Applicants: South African university students
Study Level: Students entering second or third year in 2026
Preferred Fields: Engineering, Science and other strategic fields
Funding typically covers the following:
Tuition fees
Accommodation support
Meal allowances
Textbooks and learning materials
In addition to financial assistance, successful applicants must also be available to work at a CCBSA site during university vacation periods.
This allows students to gain real-world industry experience while completing their studies.
What the Study Buddy Bursary Covers
One of the biggest advantages of this bursary is that it addresses the most common financial challenges faced by university students.
Selected students receive support covering several important academic expenses.
Tuition Fees
The programme may provide full or partial tuition coverage, depending on the funding structure.
This support ensures that students can concentrate on their studies without worrying about tuition payments.
Accommodation
Students may receive financial support for accommodation while studying.
This may include:
University residence accommodation
Approved private student accommodation
Meal Allowances
The bursary may also include a meal allowance to assist with daily living expenses while studying.
Textbooks and Study Materials
Students receive assistance with purchasing required textbooks and essential academic resources.
Access to learning materials is an important part of academic success, and this support helps ensure students have what they need.
By covering these key costs, the programme allows students to focus on academic achievement and professional growth.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary prioritises fields that are critical to the future of manufacturing, science, and technology industries.
Students studying in the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply.
QUICK LINKS:
Engineering Programmes
BEng Industrial Engineering
BEng Mechanical Engineering
BEng Mechatronic Engineering
BEng Electrical Engineering
BEng Chemical Engineering
Science Degrees
BSc Biochemistry
BSc Microbiology
BSc Environmental Science
BSc Safety Management
BSc Chemistry
Additional Fields That May Be Considered
Supply Chain Management
Marketing
Information Technology
Although STEM programmes are prioritised, students in other relevant fields may also be considered if their qualifications align with the company’s operational needs.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet specific requirements in order to qualify for the Study Buddy Bursary Programme.
To be eligible, students must:
Be a South African citizen
Have a strong academic record, including matric and first-year university results
Have completed their first or second year of university
Be entering their second or third year in 2026
Be registered at a recognised South African university
Be studying toward a STEM-related qualification or another approved field
Be available to work at a CCBSA site during university vacation periods
The vacation work component allows students to gain practical experience while still studying.
This exposure can help students build valuable skills that employers look for after graduation.
Application Process
The application process is designed to identify talented and motivated students who can benefit from the programme.
The selection process usually includes several stages.
Step 1: Submit an Online Application
Students must apply through the official CCBSA online platform.
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
Academic transcripts
Proof of university registration
Identification documents
Updated curriculum vitae
Having these documents ready before starting the application process can help prevent delays.
Step 2: Interview Stage
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview with representatives from Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa.
During the interview, the selection panel may evaluate:
Academic motivation
Career goals
Alignment with the organisation’s values
Communication skills and problem-solving ability
Step 3: Selection and Contracting
Successful candidates will receive an official bursary offer together with a contract outlining the funding terms and programme expectations.
Students must review and sign the agreement before funding is activated.
Step 4: Funding and Programme Support
Once the agreement is finalised, bursary funding becomes active and students begin receiving financial and professional support during their studies.
Why This Bursary Matters
For many students, financial pressure can become the biggest obstacle to completing a university degree.
Programmes like the Study Buddy Bursary help reduce these challenges while also preparing students for future careers.
The combination of financial assistance and workplace exposure allows students to gain both academic knowledge and practical industry experience.
This approach helps build stronger graduates who are better prepared for the professional world.
Conclusion
The Study Buddy Bursary Programme 2026 offered by Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa provides a valuable opportunity for South African university students studying in engineering, science, and related fields.
With support covering tuition, accommodation, meals, and textbooks, the programme helps students focus on their education while gaining practical industry experience during vacation periods.
Students who meet the requirements are encouraged to prepare their documents and submit their applications before the closing date.