Nestlé has opened applications for the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary Programme 2026. The bursary supports full time studies at accredited institutions in South Africa and targets young South African students who want to build careers in business, technology, food systems, and digital innovation.
Programme Overview
- Bursary provider: Nestlé South Africa
- Programme: Nestlé Future Talent Bursary Programme 2026
- Study level: Undergraduate
- Fields of study: Business, technology, engineering, food science, and digital fields
- Location: South Africa
- Target group: South African youth aged 17 to 25
- Academic requirement: Minimum 65 percent average
- Closing date: 09 January 2026
About Nestlé South Africa
Nestlé is one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies, with operations across manufacturing, agriculture, nutrition, marketing, digital commerce, and innovation. In South Africa, Nestlé operates production facilities, offices, and supply chains that support both local and regional markets.
The company invests heavily in youth development through bursaries, internships, graduate programmes, and skills initiatives. The Future Talent Bursary forms part of Nestlé’s long term strategy to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to sustainable business growth and food system development.
About the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
The Future Talent Bursary is designed to support high performing students who show academic ability and interest in fields aligned with Nestlé’s business needs. The bursary supports students who are either entering tertiary studies or already studying toward an approved qualification.
The programme focuses on developing future professionals who understand modern business environments, digital platforms, data driven decision making, and innovation within the food and consumer goods sector.
Fields of Study Supported
Bursaries are awarded for full time studies in the following fields.
- Agriculture
- Brand Management
- Computer Science
- Data Analysis
- Digital and E commerce
- Engineering
- Food Science and Technology
- Information Technology
- Innovation related studies
- Media Communications
- Social Media Marketing
These fields align with Nestlé’s operations across production, supply chain, marketing, technology, and innovation.
Who Should Apply
The bursary is suitable for students who plan to build careers in corporate, technical, or innovation driven environments.
You should apply if you:
- Want to study in a field linked to business, technology, or food systems
- Meet the academic requirements
- Are committed to full time studies
- Are interested in long term professional growth
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all minimum requirements before applying.
- South African citizen
- Between 17 and 25 years old
- Completed Matric
- Achieved a minimum overall average of 65 percent in Matric
- Studying or applying to study full time in one of the approved fields
- Accepted or registered at an accredited institution in South Africa
For current tertiary students:
- Must have maintained a minimum overall average of 65 percent in the previous year of study
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee bursary approval, as selection remains competitive.
What the Bursary Supports
The Nestlé Future Talent Bursary supports approved study related costs. Funding is provided in line with the bursary agreement and academic performance requirements.
Specific funding details are communicated directly to successful applicants through the bursary contract.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following documents.
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Most recent academic results on institutional letterhead
- Proof of university registration or admission on institutional letterhead
Incomplete or incorrect documentation may affect application assessment.
Application Platform and Process
Nestlé processes bursary applications through the CareerWise bursary management platform.
To apply, follow these steps:
- Register an account on the CareerWise portal
- Log in to your CareerWise account
- Search for the Nestlé Future Talent Bursary
- Use the promotion code: Nestle 2026
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
NB. Applicants must ensure that all uploaded documents are clear, certified where required, and correctly labelled. Applications submitted after the closing date are not considered.
Applicants are encouraged to keep copies of all submitted documents for reference.