Columbus Stainless Bursary 2027

About the Provider

Columbus Stainless is one of South Africa's most important industrial companies and holds a unique position on the continent as the sole producer of stainless steel in Africa. Founded in 1966, the company has grown into a major player in the global metals industry and forms part of the Acerinox Group, a multinational stainless steel producer with operations across several countries. From its base in Mpumalanga, Columbus Stainless supplies stainless steel products throughout South Africa, the rest of the African continent, and to customers around the world.

The company produces a wide range of stainless steel products, including Cold Rolled Coil, Cold Rolled Sheet, Hot Rolled Coil, Hot Rolled Sheet, Hot Rolled Plate, Hot Rolled Black Coil, and Slit Coil. Stainless steel is a material that sits at the heart of modern life. It is durable, fully recyclable, and increasingly seen as a metal of the future because of its long lifespan and its role in sustainable manufacturing. Everything from kitchen equipment and medical instruments to construction materials and transport components relies on the quality and consistency of stainless steel.

Because the production of stainless steel is a highly technical process, Columbus Stainless depends on a steady supply of skilled professionals in fields such as metallurgical engineering, materials science, accounting, and finance. The company understands that the strength of its operations rests on the expertise of the people who run them. For this reason, Columbus Stainless invests in the education of promising South African students through its bursary programme.

The bursary is more than a financial arrangement. It reflects the company's belief that supporting young people through their studies builds both individual futures and the wider economy. By funding students in scarce and specialised skills areas, Columbus Stainless helps to develop the kind of technical and professional talent that South African industry urgently needs. For learners who dream of a career in engineering, science, or finance but who face financial barriers to higher education, this bursary represents a genuine opportunity to move forward.

The company's location in Mpumalanga also means that it plays an important role in the economic life of the region, providing employment and contributing to local development. Through its bursary scheme, Columbus Stainless extends that contribution to the next generation, giving students the chance to gain qualifications that can lead to meaningful and well-paid careers within a respected international group.

## About the Provider Columbus Stainless is one of South Africa's most important industrial companies and holds a unique position on the continent as the sole producer of stainless steel in Africa. Founded in 1966, the company has grown into a major player in the global metals industry and forms part of the Acerinox Group, a multinational stainless steel producer with operations across several countries. From its base in Mpumalanga, Columbus Stainless supplies stainless steel products throughout South Africa, the rest of the African continent, and to customers around the world. The company produces a wide range of stainless steel products, including Cold Rolled Coil, Cold Rolled Sheet, Hot Rolled Coil, Hot Rolled Sheet, Hot Rolled Plate, Hot Rolled Black Coil, and Slit Coil. Stainless steel is a material that sits at the heart of modern life. It is durable, fully recyclable, and increasingly seen as a metal of the future because of its long lifespan and its role in sustainable manufacturing. Everything from kitchen equipment and medical instruments to construction materials and transport components relies on the quality and consistency of stainless steel. Because the production of stainless steel is a highly technical process, Columbus Stainless depends on a steady supply of skilled professionals in fields such as metallurgical engineering, materials science, accounting, and finance. The company understands that the strength of its operations rests on the expertise of the people who run them. For this reason, Columbus Stainless invests in the education of promising South African students through its bursary programme. The bursary is more than a financial arrangement. It reflects the company's belief that supporting young people through their studies builds both individual futures and the wider economy. By funding students in scarce and specialised skills areas, Columbus Stainless helps to develop the kind of technical and professional talent that South African industry urgently needs. For learners who dream of a career in engineering, science, or finance but who face financial barriers to higher education, this bursary represents a genuine opportunity to move forward. The company's location in Mpumalanga also means that it plays an important role in the economic life of the region, providing employment and contributing to local development. Through its bursary scheme, Columbus Stainless extends that contribution to the next generation, giving students the chance to gain qualifications that can lead to meaningful and well-paid careers within a respected international group.

About the Program

The Columbus Stainless Bursary Programme supports South African students who wish to study towards qualifications that are directly relevant to the company's operations. For the 2027 academic year, the company is offering bursaries across three main areas of study, each aimed at building the technical and professional skills that a stainless steel producer relies on.

The first stream covers Accounting Sciences (BSc) and Finance (BCom). This bursary is aimed at learners who are currently in Matric and who plan to begin these studies in 2027. Strong financial and accounting skills are essential to any large manufacturer, and this stream helps develop the commercial talent that supports the business side of the company.

The second stream covers Metallurgical Engineering (BEng). This is one of the most specialised fields connected to stainless steel production, dealing with the science and engineering of extracting, refining, and processing metals. This bursary is aimed at students who are already studying towards a metallurgical engineering qualification, helping them complete their degrees and move into careers in the metals industry.

The third stream covers Materials Science. This bursary supports students who intend to begin studying towards a materials science qualification in 2027. Materials science underpins the development and improvement of metals and other materials, making it a natural fit for a company focused on the future of stainless steel.

Across all three streams, the bursary offers all-inclusive funding, which means it is designed to cover the full range of study-related costs rather than only part of them. This comprehensive approach removes much of the financial pressure that students and their families face, allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies.

The programme is open to students who will be studying at recognised and accredited tertiary institutions within South Africa. By tying its funding to specific fields, Columbus Stainless ensures that the bursary builds the exact skills the company and the broader industry need. Recipients are not only supported financially but also become part of a pipeline of talent connected to one of the most significant industrial employers in the country.

For many students, a bursary like this is the bridge between ambition and reality. It allows learners from financially constrained backgrounds to pursue technical and commercial qualifications that might otherwise be out of reach, and it links their education to a clear industry and a recognised employer.

## About the Program The Columbus Stainless Bursary Programme supports South African students who wish to study towards qualifications that are directly relevant to the company's operations. For the 2027 academic year, the company is offering bursaries across three main areas of study, each aimed at building the technical and professional skills that a stainless steel producer relies on. The first stream covers Accounting Sciences (BSc) and Finance (BCom). This bursary is aimed at learners who are currently in Matric and who plan to begin these studies in 2027. Strong financial and accounting skills are essential to any large manufacturer, and this stream helps develop the commercial talent that supports the business side of the company. The second stream covers Metallurgical Engineering (BEng). This is one of the most specialised fields connected to stainless steel production, dealing with the science and engineering of extracting, refining, and processing metals. This bursary is aimed at students who are already studying towards a metallurgical engineering qualification, helping them complete their degrees and move into careers in the metals industry. The third stream covers Materials Science. This bursary supports students who intend to begin studying towards a materials science qualification in 2027. Materials science underpins the development and improvement of metals and other materials, making it a natural fit for a company focused on the future of stainless steel. Across all three streams, the bursary offers all-inclusive funding, which means it is designed to cover the full range of study-related costs rather than only part of them. This comprehensive approach removes much of the financial pressure that students and their families face, allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies. The programme is open to students who will be studying at recognised and accredited tertiary institutions within South Africa. By tying its funding to specific fields, Columbus Stainless ensures that the bursary builds the exact skills the company and the broader industry need. Recipients are not only supported financially but also become part of a pipeline of talent connected to one of the most significant industrial employers in the country. For many students, a bursary like this is the bridge between ambition and reality. It allows learners from financially constrained backgrounds to pursue technical and commercial qualifications that might otherwise be out of reach, and it links their education to a clear industry and a recognised employer.

Bursary Benefits

The Columbus Stainless Bursary is described as all-inclusive funding, which means it is structured to cover the comprehensive costs associated with tertiary study rather than only a portion of them. This is a significant advantage for students, as it reduces the need to find additional sources of funding to cover gaps.

Comprehensive financial support towards the costs of studying at a recognised South African tertiary institution
Funding aligned to the specific qualification streams: Accounting Sciences, Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, and Materials Science
The opportunity to study towards an industry-relevant qualification connected to a major international metals group
Exposure to a respected employer in the stainless steel sector, which can support future career development

Because the bursary is tied to fields that are directly relevant to Columbus Stainless, recipients gain qualifications that are in demand within the company and the wider industry. This connection between funding and future employment opportunities adds long-term value beyond the immediate financial relief.

## Bursary Benefits The Columbus Stainless Bursary is described as **all-inclusive funding**, which means it is structured to cover the comprehensive costs associated with tertiary study rather than only a portion of them. This is a significant advantage for students, as it reduces the need to find additional sources of funding to cover gaps. - **Comprehensive financial support** towards the costs of studying at a recognised South African tertiary institution - Funding aligned to the specific qualification streams: Accounting Sciences, Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, and Materials Science - The opportunity to study towards an industry-relevant qualification connected to a major international metals group - Exposure to a respected employer in the stainless steel sector, which can support future career development Because the bursary is tied to fields that are directly relevant to Columbus Stainless, recipients gain qualifications that are in demand within the company and the wider industry. This connection between funding and future employment opportunities adds long-term value beyond the immediate financial relief.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Columbus Stainless Bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements. Failing to meet all the criteria relevant to your chosen stream will result in your application not being considered.

You must be a South African citizen
You must be studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
Accounting Sciences (BSc) / Finance (BCom) stream: you must currently be in Matric in 2026 and intend to study towards an Accounting Sciences (BSc) or Finance (BCom) qualification in 2027
Metallurgical Engineering (BEng) stream: you must currently be studying towards a Metallurgical Engineering (BEng) qualification
Materials Science stream: you must intend to study towards a Materials Science qualification in 2027

Each stream has its own specific entry point, so it is important to apply for the bursary that matches your current academic stage and your study plans. Applicants are encouraged to read the requirements carefully and confirm that they qualify before submitting.

## Eligibility Criteria To be considered for the Columbus Stainless Bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements. Failing to meet all the criteria relevant to your chosen stream will result in your application not being considered. - You must be a **South African citizen** - You must be studying at a **recognised and accredited tertiary institution** in South Africa - **Accounting Sciences (BSc) / Finance (BCom) stream:** you must currently be in Matric in 2026 and intend to study towards an Accounting Sciences (BSc) or Finance (BCom) qualification in 2027 - **Metallurgical Engineering (BEng) stream:** you must currently be studying towards a Metallurgical Engineering (BEng) qualification - **Materials Science stream:** you must intend to study towards a Materials Science qualification in 2027 Each stream has its own specific entry point, so it is important to apply for the bursary that matches your current academic stage and your study plans. Applicants are encouraged to read the requirements carefully and confirm that they qualify before submitting.

Required Documents

Submit clear, certified copies of the following supporting documents together with your online application. Missing documents may lead to your application being disqualified, so check the list carefully before you submit.

Certified copy of your ID document
Matric certificate
Full academic record or transcripts
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A recent photo of yourself (head and shoulders)
Any other relevant documents, certificates, or proof of completed courses

Make sure all copies are clear and legible, and that certified documents have been stamped recently. Keeping a complete digital set of these documents ready will make the online application process faster and smoother.

## Required Documents Submit clear, certified copies of the following supporting documents together with your online application. Missing documents may lead to your application being disqualified, so check the list carefully before you submit. - **Certified copy of your ID document** - **Matric certificate** - **Full academic record or transcripts** - **Curriculum Vitae (CV)** - A recent **photo of yourself** (head and shoulders) - Any other relevant documents, certificates, or proof of completed courses Make sure all copies are clear and legible, and that certified documents have been stamped recently. Keeping a complete digital set of these documents ready will make the online application process faster and smoother.

How to Apply

Applications for the Columbus Stainless Bursary must be submitted online through the company's recruitment portal. Follow these steps to complete your application:

Decide which bursary stream matches your studies: Accounting Sciences/Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, or Materials Science.
Prepare clear, certified copies of all the required documents before you begin, so you can upload them without delays.
Visit the online application portal for the relevant stream:
- Accounting Sciences / Finance bursary (Reference: BurAccSc&Fin)
- Metallurgical Engineering bursary (Reference: METBURS2027)
- Materials Science bursary (Reference: BursMatScHon)
Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic information.
When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the appropriate referral information as requested on the form.
Upload all your supporting documents, double-checking that each file is clear and complete.
Review your application thoroughly to confirm there are no errors or missing fields.
Submit your application before the closing date for your stream.

After submitting, note that shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If you do not receive any feedback within two weeks of the bursary closing date, you should regard your application as unsuccessful. Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for your own records.

## How to Apply Applications for the Columbus Stainless Bursary must be submitted online through the company's recruitment portal. Follow these steps to complete your application: 1. Decide which bursary stream matches your studies: Accounting Sciences/Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, or Materials Science. 2. Prepare clear, certified copies of all the required documents before you begin, so you can upload them without delays. 3. Visit the online application portal for the relevant stream: - Accounting Sciences / Finance bursary (Reference: BurAccSc&Fin) - Metallurgical Engineering bursary (Reference: METBURS2027) - Materials Science bursary (Reference: BursMatScHon) 4. Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic information. 5. When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the appropriate referral information as requested on the form. 6. Upload all your supporting documents, double-checking that each file is clear and complete. 7. Review your application thoroughly to confirm there are no errors or missing fields. 8. Submit your application before the closing date for your stream. After submitting, note that shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If you do not receive any feedback within two weeks of the bursary closing date, you should regard your application as unsuccessful. Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for your own records.

Tips for Success

Applying for a competitive bursary takes preparation and care. The following tips can help you put together a strong application for the Columbus Stainless Bursary.

Apply for the correct stream. Make sure you are applying for the bursary that matches your academic stage and intended field. A mismatch can lead to your application being rejected before it is even assessed.
Start early. Do not wait until the closing date approaches. Gathering certified documents and completing the online form takes time, and last-minute technical issues can cost you the opportunity.
Get documents certified in good time. Certified copies usually need to be recent, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths well ahead of the deadline.
Keep your CV up to date and relevant. Highlight your academic achievements, leadership roles, and any activities that show commitment and responsibility. Keep it neat, clear, and free of spelling errors.
Present a clean, professional photo. A simple head-and-shoulders photo with a plain background creates the right impression.
Check your academic record carefully. Make sure your transcripts are complete and that they reflect your most recent results.
Proofread everything. Spelling and grammar errors can make an application look careless. Read through your form and documents, or ask someone you trust to review them.
Be honest and accurate. Only provide truthful information. Misrepresenting your results or circumstances can disqualify you and damage your credibility.
Follow instructions exactly. If the form asks for specific information or a reference number, provide it precisely as requested.
Keep records. Save confirmation emails and copies of everything you submit, so you have proof of your application if needed.

A well-organised, complete, and honest application stands out. Treat the process seriously and give yourself enough time to do it properly.

## Tips for Success Applying for a competitive bursary takes preparation and care. The following tips can help you put together a strong application for the Columbus Stainless Bursary. - **Apply for the correct stream.** Make sure you are applying for the bursary that matches your academic stage and intended field. A mismatch can lead to your application being rejected before it is even assessed. - **Start early.** Do not wait until the closing date approaches. Gathering certified documents and completing the online form takes time, and last-minute technical issues can cost you the opportunity. - **Get documents certified in good time.** Certified copies usually need to be recent, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths well ahead of the deadline. - **Keep your CV up to date and relevant.** Highlight your academic achievements, leadership roles, and any activities that show commitment and responsibility. Keep it neat, clear, and free of spelling errors. - **Present a clean, professional photo.** A simple head-and-shoulders photo with a plain background creates the right impression. - **Check your academic record carefully.** Make sure your transcripts are complete and that they reflect your most recent results. - **Proofread everything.** Spelling and grammar errors can make an application look careless. Read through your form and documents, or ask someone you trust to review them. - **Be honest and accurate.** Only provide truthful information. Misrepresenting your results or circumstances can disqualify you and damage your credibility. - **Follow instructions exactly.** If the form asks for specific information or a reference number, provide it precisely as requested. - **Keep records.** Save confirmation emails and copies of everything you submit, so you have proof of your application if needed. A well-organised, complete, and honest application stands out. Treat the process seriously and give yourself enough time to do it properly.

Career Prospects

A bursary in any of the Columbus Stainless funded fields opens the door to a range of rewarding careers, particularly within the metals, manufacturing, and broader industrial sectors.

Graduates in Metallurgical Engineering are highly sought after in industries that extract, refine, and process metals. They can work as metallurgists, process engineers, quality engineers, and research and development specialists. In a company like Columbus Stainless, metallurgical engineers play a central role in ensuring that stainless steel products meet exacting standards. The skills are also transferable to mining, foundries, and other heavy industries, both in South Africa and internationally.

Graduates in Materials Science work at the cutting edge of developing and improving the materials used in manufacturing. Careers include materials engineer, research scientist, and quality control specialist. As industries increasingly focus on sustainability, recyclability, and high-performance materials, the demand for these skills continues to grow. Materials scientists contribute to innovations in everything from construction to advanced engineering.

Graduates in Accounting Sciences and Finance are essential to the commercial functioning of any large company. They can pursue careers as accountants, financial analysts, auditors, financial managers, and business advisors. Within a manufacturing group, finance professionals manage budgets, analyse costs, ensure compliance, and support strategic decision-making. These qualifications are widely recognised and offer flexibility across many sectors of the economy.

Beyond the technical and commercial skills, students who are supported by an employer-linked bursary often gain valuable insight into the world of work. Exposure to a major industrial group can help graduates understand how their studies connect to real operations, and it can provide a pathway into employment after graduation. Many bursary recipients go on to build long and successful careers with the companies that supported them.

The fields funded by this bursary are all areas where South Africa needs more qualified professionals. By choosing one of these paths, students position themselves in careers that offer stability, growth, and the chance to contribute to an important part of the national economy.

## Career Prospects A bursary in any of the Columbus Stainless funded fields opens the door to a range of rewarding careers, particularly within the metals, manufacturing, and broader industrial sectors. Graduates in **Metallurgical Engineering** are highly sought after in industries that extract, refine, and process metals. They can work as metallurgists, process engineers, quality engineers, and research and development specialists. In a company like Columbus Stainless, metallurgical engineers play a central role in ensuring that stainless steel products meet exacting standards. The skills are also transferable to mining, foundries, and other heavy industries, both in South Africa and internationally. Graduates in **Materials Science** work at the cutting edge of developing and improving the materials used in manufacturing. Careers include materials engineer, research scientist, and quality control specialist. As industries increasingly focus on sustainability, recyclability, and high-performance materials, the demand for these skills continues to grow. Materials scientists contribute to innovations in everything from construction to advanced engineering. Graduates in **Accounting Sciences and Finance** are essential to the commercial functioning of any large company. They can pursue careers as accountants, financial analysts, auditors, financial managers, and business advisors. Within a manufacturing group, finance professionals manage budgets, analyse costs, ensure compliance, and support strategic decision-making. These qualifications are widely recognised and offer flexibility across many sectors of the economy. Beyond the technical and commercial skills, students who are supported by an employer-linked bursary often gain valuable insight into the world of work. Exposure to a major industrial group can help graduates understand how their studies connect to real operations, and it can provide a pathway into employment after graduation. Many bursary recipients go on to build long and successful careers with the companies that supported them. The fields funded by this bursary are all areas where South Africa needs more qualified professionals. By choosing one of these paths, students position themselves in careers that offer stability, growth, and the chance to contribute to an important part of the national economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Columbus Stainless Bursary?

South African citizens who are studying or intend to study towards one of the funded qualifications (Accounting Sciences, Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, or Materials Science) at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa may apply. Each stream has its own specific entry requirements.

What fields of study does the bursary cover?

The bursary covers Accounting Sciences (BSc), Finance (BCom), Metallurgical Engineering (BEng), and Materials Science.

What does the bursary cover financially?

Columbus Stainless offers all-inclusive bursary funding, which is structured to cover the comprehensive costs associated with tertiary study at a recognised institution.

When is the closing date?

The undergraduate bursary closes on 28 August 2026, and the postgraduate bursary closes on 31 August 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the company's recruitment portal, using the relevant link and reference number for your chosen stream. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents.

What documents do I need?

You need a certified copy of your ID, your Matric certificate, your full academic record, a CV, a head-and-shoulders photo, and any other relevant certificates.

How will I know if I have been successful?

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If you do not hear back within two weeks of the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Can I apply if I am still in Matric?

Yes. The Accounting Sciences and Finance stream is specifically aimed at learners currently in Matric in 2026 who intend to begin studying in 2027. The Materials Science stream is also open to students who intend to start studying in 2027.

Does the bursary support postgraduate study?

Yes. There is a separate postgraduate closing date of 31 August 2026, and one of the application references relates to honours-level study.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the Columbus Stainless Bursary? South African citizens who are studying or intend to study towards one of the funded qualifications (Accounting Sciences, Finance, Metallurgical Engineering, or Materials Science) at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa may apply. Each stream has its own specific entry requirements. ## What fields of study does the bursary cover? The bursary covers Accounting Sciences (BSc), Finance (BCom), Metallurgical Engineering (BEng), and Materials Science. ## What does the bursary cover financially? Columbus Stainless offers all-inclusive bursary funding, which is structured to cover the comprehensive costs associated with tertiary study at a recognised institution. ## When is the closing date? The undergraduate bursary closes on **28 August 2026**, and the postgraduate bursary closes on **31 August 2026**. Late applications will not be accepted. ## How do I apply? Applications are submitted online through the company's recruitment portal, using the relevant link and reference number for your chosen stream. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents. ## What documents do I need? You need a certified copy of your ID, your Matric certificate, your full academic record, a CV, a head-and-shoulders photo, and any other relevant certificates. ## How will I know if I have been successful? Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If you do not hear back within two weeks of the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful. ## Can I apply if I am still in Matric? Yes. The Accounting Sciences and Finance stream is specifically aimed at learners currently in Matric in 2026 who intend to begin studying in 2027. The Materials Science stream is also open to students who intend to start studying in 2027. ## Does the bursary support postgraduate study? Yes. There is a separate postgraduate closing date of 31 August 2026, and one of the application references relates to honours-level study.

Applications Closing

The undergraduate bursary closes on 28 August 2026 and the postgraduate bursary closes on 31 August 2026. Applications received after these dates will not be accepted, so apply early.

About the Organization

Columbus Stainless Head Office Tel: 013 247 9111 Queries can be submitted via the company's contact page (choose the Recruitment and Bursaries option)