The Armscor Bursary Scheme for 2026 is a financial assistance award made available to academically talented South African students pursuing a career in science, technology and various fields of engineering that are relevant to South Africa's "Defence Industry". The bursary is primarily designed for academically talented students from "previously disadvantaged" background. A detailed guide is provided below. It include the requirements for applying, the study fields, benefits, application process as well as critical application deadline.
The Armaments Corporation of South Africa, commonly known as Armscor was formed in 1968 and is currently functioning as the procurement agency for arms for the Department of Defence of South Africa. Armscor plays a critical role in managing and acquiring the country's defence resources. In adition its role in the DOD, Armscor provides specialist services to other governmental departments and defense stakeholders in Africa.
The Armscor Bursary Program is provided in collaboration with the defense industry. This particular bursary is aimed at the development of experts in key science and engineering fields. The bursary will cover study during the 2026 academic year. The bursary is intended to provide solutions to the shortage of scarce skills in the defense environment. Those who have strong desire to serve in contributing to the defence of, as well as technological development in South Africa are encouraged to apply.
Field of Study Covered
The bursary contributes towards qualifications that will be relevant in the future defence industry sector. These include:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics
- Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Human Kinetics and Ergonomics Science
- Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics Engineering
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Naval Engineering and Marine Engineering
Only studies in approved field will be considered.
Selection Process
Applicants will be rated on the following criteria:
- Academic performance, especially in Mathematics and Physical Sciences
- Financial needs
- Compatibility between the discipline of choice and requirements in the defence industry
- Interest in pursuing a long-term career in the defence sector
- Background and personal motivation
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as funding is limited.
Expenses Coveres by the Bursary
The Armscor Bursary may cover the following cost:
- Tuition fees
- Prscribed textbook
- Accomodation
- Meals
- Living allowance
- Vacation work opportunities (where available)
The exact value of the bursary is determined by the Armscor based on funding availability and students need.
Feedback and Notification
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 2 weeks after the closing date. Applicants who do not receive any communication within this period should consider their application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be in Matric in 2025 or have completed Matric
- Have achieved minimum achievement levels of 5, 6, and 7 in Mathematics, Physical Sciences and English
- Be studying or planning to study full-time in 2026
- Be accepted or planning to study at a recognised public tertiary institution in South Africa
- Be studying in one of the approved fields listed above
- Have a strong academic record
- Demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income not exceeding R1 million per year
- Show interest in a career within the defence industry
- Be from a previously disadvantaged background
How to Apply for the Armscor Bursary
Applicants must download and complete the official Armscor Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
Ensure that the application form is completed fully and accurately.
Supporting Documents
The applicants are required to provide certified copies of the following documents
- South African ID documents
- Matric Mid-Year results (if already in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if Matric has been completed)
- Full academic record (if currently studying at tertiary level)
- ID cards, death certificate (if applicable) and ID of parents\guardians
- Proof of parents\guardians income (payslip, employment letter, affidavit in the case of of unemployed\informally employed parents\guardians, SASSA application or proof,or death certificate as relevant)
Documents required for shorts-listed candidates:
- Final Matric results
- Proof of Acceptance\Registration in University
- Student number
- Fees statement (if already studying at Tertiary level)
Prior to the disburment of a bursary award, shortlisted candidates are often asked for current proof of registration and fee documents on a letterhead from a relevant institution.
Application Submission Methods
Applications can be submitted via email or post.
Email submission:
- Email: bursaries@armscor.co.za
- Subject line: Armscor Bursary Application - Full Qualification Name
Postal submission:
Senior Manager: Learning & Organisation
Development
Armscor Ltd
Private Bag X337
Pretoria
0001
Closing Date
The closing date for application is:
26 February 2026
Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are advised to submit well before the deadline.
Contact Details
For bursary-related enquiries, contact Armscor directly:
- Thulisile Sibeko
- Tel: 012 428 2456
- Email: ThulisileS@armscor.co.za
- Tsoga Moeketsi
- Tel: 012 428 3105
- Email: TsogaM@armscor.co.za
Please do not contact Armscor if the bursary has already closed.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purpose only. Applicants should always verify details directly with Armscor or the official bursary documentation.
Burzarsnet wishes you luck with your application.