PAMSA Bursary

Are you a final year student looking for a bursary to further your postgraduate studies? then search no more! The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. 

PAMSA Bursary Opens 2026 Applications

The PAMSA Masters Bursary programme is a two-year programme intended to help academically exceptional students to complete their Master's degree. This bursary programme aids and supports the development of highly qualified chemical engineers in the paper sector, and South Africa’s economy. Bursary recipients will work on research projects related to the paper and pulp industry, such as beneficiation of wood fibre, recycled fibre, process waste, and resource efficiency.

FIELD OF STUDY

The bursary programme is open to students who want to pursue a postgraduate qualification in the following fields:

• Chemical Engineering (Final Year Student)
• Chemical Engineering (Masters) 
   

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY

To qualify for the PAMSA Bursary, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be a South African citizen 
• You must be a final year BEng/BSc Chemical Engineering student at a registered South African university OR a BEng/BSc chemical engineering graduate.
• You must have a good academic record with a minimum 60% average in the final year of study.
• You must intend on studying towards a Masters in Chemical Engineering in 2026. 
• You must have completed your studies in five years or less.
• You must be studying or intend to study Masters in Chemical Engineering in the following institutions; Stellenbosch University, University of Johannesburg, North West University and University of Pretoria.

PAMSA BURSARY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

• Curriculum Vitae
• One-page motivation detailing why you should be considered (your areas of interest, for example energy efficiency, renewable energy and biopolymers etc.)
• Full academic transcripts
• Reference letter from a lecturer

How to apply for the PAMSA Bursary for the 2026 Academic Year 

Applications for the PAMSA Bursary and Research programme must be made online. Here's how you can apply online for the PAMSA Bursary for 2026:

• Visit the PAMSA Application Site
• Fill in the online application form
• Answer questions as accurately as possible
• Upload all the required documents

CLOSING DATE:

If you are interested in applying for the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) Bursary for the 2026 academic year, it is crucial that you take note of the application deadlines. Missing these dates could cost you a valuable opportunity to fund your postgraduate studies in chemical engineering.

Main Application Deadline: 06 June 2025

The official closing date for standard applications is Friday, 06 June 2025. All applications submitted on or before this date will be given first preference during the shortlisting and review process. This means that if you want to maximize your chances of being considered for the bursary, it’s highly recommended to submit your application before this date.

While late applications will still be accepted until 27 June 2025, it's important to understand that they will be considered only after all the on-time submissions have been reviewed. This means you could still be in the running, but you’ll be at a disadvantage compared to early applicants.

Conclusion

The PAMSA Bursary is a remarkable opportunity for aspiring chemical engineers who are passionate about contributing to South Africa’s pulp and paper sector. If you’re a final-year student or recent graduate with a strong academic record and a keen interest in sustainability, renewable energy, or industrial innovation, this bursary can be your stepping stone toward a meaningful and impactful career.

By applying to the PAMSA Master’s Bursary Programme, you not only gain financial support for your studies but also the chance to be involved in industry-relevant research that addresses real-world challenges. Whether your interest lies in energy efficiency, biopolymers, or resource recovery, this programme offers the perfect platform to advance your academic and professional goals.

Remember, the main application deadline is 06 June 2025, with late applications accepted until 27 June 2025. However, early applicants will be given first priority—so don’t delay. Start preparing your documents now, write a compelling motivation letter, and take the first step toward a funded postgraduate journey in chemical engineering.