Shell South Africa

About Shell South Africa

Shell South Africa is the local arm of Shell plc, the global energy and petrochemical group. In this country, it has long been linked to Shell-branded service stations, lubricants and fuel products. The company also co-owned the SAPREF refinery in Durban with BP. SAPREF was commissioned in 1963 and was once the largest refinery in South Africa. It stopped processing in 2022 after serious flood damage.

Shell's downstream business in South Africa has been changing. In 2024, the group announced plans to exit its South African downstream operations. For that reason, students should check the official Shell website to see how the bursary is currently run and who administers it.

How Shell supports students

The Shell bursary targets first-year students from disadvantaged backgrounds who want to study science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) degrees linked to the energy sector. Typical fields include mechanical, chemical, electrical and civil engineering. Funding may cover tuition, textbooks, accommodation and living costs.

Shell has said that strong performers are often offered internships while they study. In addition, the programme is administered by an outside body, TTI Bursaries. This means your application goes through that organisation rather than directly to Shell.

TTI Bursaries is an outside organisation that manages bursary programmes for several companies, so you should expect an online process with strict document checks. Prepare your documents well before the closing date. Proof of household income can take the form of recent payslips, an affidavit if a parent or guardian is unemployed, or proof of a social grant or pension. In addition, energy-sector careers are changing as the industry looks at cleaner fuels, so engineers with strong science foundations will have many options. Always use the official Shell channels to find the application link.

What to know before applying

Recent published criteria are demanding. Applicants must be South African citizens with financial need. They need a matric pass with at least 75% overall and at least 75% in Pure Mathematics, Physical Sciences and English. You must be starting your first undergraduate degree at an accredited public university in a STEM programme linked to energy. Documents usually include a certified ID, matric results, a university acceptance letter and proof of household income. The 2026 closing date was 30 January, and late applications were not accepted.

Shell does not clearly state a binding work-back period in its public information. Instead, it speaks about internships and later consideration for graduate roles. However, an internship is not a guaranteed job. Read your bursary agreement carefully and ask the administrator about any service obligation before you accept. Requirements and dates change each year, so always confirm them on the official site.