SAIEE Bursary

About the SAIEE

The South African Institute of Electrical Engineers, or SAIEE, was founded in 1909. It is a non-profit professional body that represents electrical, electronic and computer engineers, technologists and technicians in Southern Africa. Its home is SAIEE House in Observatory, Johannesburg.

The institute supports its members through standards, professional development and continuing education. It also invests in the next generation. By funding students, it helps build the pool of skilled people that the energy, electronics and technology sectors need.

How the SAIEE supports students

The SAIEE runs several funding options. The main one is the Education and Bursary Fund. It awards a number of bursaries each year for diplomas or degrees in electrical, electronic or computer engineering. Study must take place at a South African university or university of technology.

Two other awards exist. The Past President's Scholarship can run for up to four years. It covers tuition, accommodation, books and living costs, subject to the funds available each year. In contrast, the ISH/SAIEE Postgraduate Research Scholarship backs researchers aged 30 or younger. These researchers pursue Master's or doctoral work in high voltage engineering and related areas.

The standard bursary covers tuition and prescribed books only. It is usually awarded for one year, and it can be renewed. Successful first-year students are renewed automatically until they finish, as long as they keep passing.

What to know before applying

Applicants must be South African citizens. The SAIEE asks for matric symbols of at least C (60%) in Mathematics and Physical Science. Languages need at least a D (50%). The selection panel weighs academic merit, family financial need and extracurricular involvement. It also considers demographic representation in engineering. Dependants of SAIEE members get preference.

Students must send progress statements twice a year. Failing a year means losing support. Consequently, the bursary suits learners who are ready to work consistently.

Applications need certified copies of identity documents, a motivation letter, proof of parental salary and matric results. The institute warns that candidates who leave out information will be disqualified, and it does not enter into correspondence about incomplete files. Deadlines and application windows vary, so check the official bursary page for the current round.

Electrical engineering is a broad field. Graduates work in power generation, transmission, electronics, telecommunications and control systems. As a professional body, the SAIEE sees the demand for these skills first-hand, which is why it funds study in the field. Students should also think about professional registration later, since an engineer's career often depends on it.

Because the standard bursary pays for tuition and books only, plan for accommodation and living costs from other sources. Family support, NSFAS where you qualify, or an additional bursary can fill the gap.

A work-back obligation is not clearly published. If you receive an award, read the award letter closely.