Shoprite Bursaries 2026 – Apply Now for Fully Funded Study Opportunities
The Shoprite Bursaries 2026 programme offers ambitious South African students financial support to study in scarce and high-demand fields while preparing for long-term careers within Africa’s largest retail group. This bursary is designed to develop future professionals who will contribute to Shoprite’s continued growth across the continent.
About the Shoprite Group
The Shoprite Group was founded in 1979 in Cape Town and has grown into Africa’s biggest food retailer, operating over 2,000 stores across 16 African countries and the Indian Ocean Islands.
Its portfolio includes well-known brands such as:
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- OK Furniture
- House & Home
- Hungry Lion
- Usave
Beyond retail, the group offers career opportunities in finance, logistics, agriculture, supply chain management, and business leadership, making it a strong destination for graduates.
Fields of Study Covered by Shoprite Bursaries 2026
Shoprite funds studies that align directly with its operational and leadership needs. The following bursary categories are available:
- Accounting (CA Stream – SAICA) – 10 bursaries
- Biological & Agricultural Sciences – 10 bursaries
- Retail Business Management – 60 bursaries
- Supply Chain & Logistics – 10 bursaries
These fields support Shoprite’s finance operations, fresh food supply chain, retail management pipeline, and logistics network.
What the Shoprite Bursary Covers
Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation allowance (where applicable)
Estimated bursary value: R30,000 – R60,000 per year (depending on field and institution).
Work-Back Obligation
Bursary recipients are required to work for Shoprite for one year for every year funded after completing their studies. This ensures graduates gain valuable workplace experience.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Shoprite bursary recipients are placed into career paths aligned with their studies:
- Accounting: Finance division with potential entry into the CA Articles programme
- Biological & Agricultural Sciences: Freshmark and Fresh Foods operations
- Retail Business Management: Store management and leadership development
- Supply Chain & Logistics: Logistics planning, distribution, and supply optimisation
Graduates benefit from real-world exposure within a multinational retail environment.
Who Can Apply for Shoprite Bursaries 2026?
To qualify, applicants must meet the following general requirements:
- South African citizen
- 27 years old or younger
- Completed Matric
- Studying at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Enrolled in a qualifying field of study
Field-Specific Academic Requirements
Accounting (CA Stream – SAICA):
- Minimum 65% average
- Studying 2nd–4th year, PGDA, or CTA
- Strong accounting subject results
Biological & Agricultural Sciences:
- Minimum 60% average
- 2nd–4th year
- Fields such as Horticulture, Agronomy, Agricultural Economics, or Agribusiness
Retail Business Management:
- Diploma or Advanced Diploma
- Minimum 60% average
- 2nd–4th year of study
Supply Chain & Logistics:
- BCom Logistics, Operational Research, or relevant diploma
- Minimum 60% average
- 2nd–4th year of study
USEFUL LINKS
How to Apply for the Shoprite Bursary 2026
Applications must be submitted online only through Shoprite’s official recruitment platform.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register an account on the Shoprite recruitment website
- Log in using your profile details
- Apply for the relevant bursary using the correct reference number:
- Accounting (CA Stream – SAICA): Ref SHO260120-5
- Biological & Agricultural Sciences: Ref SHO260120-7
- Retail Business Management: Ref SHO260120-4
- Supply Chain & Logistics: Ref SHO260120-9
- Upload the required documents:
- Certified South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Full tertiary academic record
⚠️ Email applications are not accepted. Only online submissions will be considered.
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted within 30 days after the closing date
- Internal Shoprite employees may receive preference in line with Employment Equity
- If you do not receive feedback within this period, your application should be considered unsuccessful
Why You Should Apply for the Shoprite Bursary
- Financial relief for high-demand qualifications
- Guaranteed workplace exposure after graduation
- Access to a structured career pipeline
- Opportunities in one of Africa’s largest retail organisations
- Strong foundation for leadership and professional growth
Frequently Asked Questions: Shoprite Bursaries 2026
1. Who qualifies to apply for Shoprite Bursaries 2026?
South African citizens aged 27 or younger who have completed Matric and are studying at a recognised South African tertiary institution in an approved field may apply. Minimum academic requirements vary by field of study.
2. What does the Shoprite bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, and an accommodation allowance where applicable. The total value typically ranges between R30,000 and R60,000 per year.
3. Is there a work-back requirement after completing my studies?
Yes. Bursary recipients must work for the Shoprite Group for one year for every year funded, allowing graduates to gain valuable workplace experience.
4. Can first-year students apply for the Shoprite Bursary?
No. The Shoprite Bursaries 2026 are generally available to students in their second year or higher, including postgraduate programmes such as CTA or PGDA for accounting students.
5. How will I know if my bursary application is successful?
Only shortlisted candidates are contacted, usually within 30 days after the closing date. If you do not receive feedback within this period, your application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
The Shoprite Bursaries 2026 programme is an excellent opportunity for motivated South African students who want more than just funding. It offers academic support, real workplace experience, and a clear pathway into a sustainable career.
If you meet the requirements and are studying in one of the supported fields, applying early can significantly improve your chances.
I writes about SETA opportunities in South Africa, focusing on learnerships, internships, bursaries, and skills development programs. My goal is to provide clear, reliable information that helps students and job seekers access funded career opportunities.
