Highlights
- Financial and Career Gateway: It provides full financial coverage for studies and a paid internship that directly leads to a full-time Software Development Engineer (SDE) role at Amazon.
- Real-World Tech Experience: Interns gain invaluable practical experience by developing real software and tackling complex technical challenges using cutting-edge Amazon technology.
- Guaranteed Career Start: The program offers a clear and committed pathway to permanent employment with Amazon, ensuring a direct transition from studies to a leading tech career.
Unlocking Potential: The Amazon Recruitment Bursary Program
Launched in 2018 by the Amazon Development Centre, the Amazon Recruitment Bursary program is a significant initiative designed to foster talent from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. This comprehensive bursary aims to alleviate financial burdens by covering tuition fees, accommodation, and various additional academic costs, enabling students to focus on their studies and future careers in technology. A distinctive feature of this program is its integral link to a paid Amazon internship, which serves as a practical assessment for a full-time permanent Software Development Engineer (SDE) role upon graduation.
What the Bursary Covers
The Amazon Recruitment Bursary is designed to provide extensive financial support, covering several key areas to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed. These include:
- Tuition Fees: Capped costs for academic instruction.
- Residence/Private Accommodation: Support for living expenses during studies.
- Subsistence: Assistance with daily living costs.
- Stationery and Books: Funds for essential academic materials.
- Personal Computer and Transport: Aid for necessary equipment and commuting.
The Software Development Engineer (SDE) Experience at Amazon
A core component of the bursary program is the opportunity to experience the Amazon SDE role firsthand. SDEs at Amazon are at the forefront of innovation, tackling global, real-world problems with cutting-edge technology. They are responsible for designing, building, and testing high-quality software solutions that impact millions of users worldwide.
Internship Highlights:
Interns selected for the program are given the invaluable chance to:
- Write Real Code: Engage in practical coding and software development.
- Build Real Software: Contribute to tangible projects and see their work come to fruition.
- Collaborate with Experts: Work alongside experienced SDEs, gaining mentorship and insights.
- Address Complex Challenges: Participate in solving intricate technical problems related to distributed systems, data mining, automation, optimization, scalability, and security.
Beyond the technical aspects, the internship also prioritizes personal and professional growth. Interns have ample opportunities for networking with other Amazonians, participating in training sessions, and engaging in various social events that foster a collaborative and supportive environment. The performance during this internship is a critical factor for a potential full-time permanent SDE role offer upon completion of their studies.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
The Amazon Recruitment Bursary, managed by StudyTrust, has specific eligibility requirements designed to identify promising candidates:
- Academic Standing: Applicants must be current undergraduate students in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Software Engineering.
- Study Level: Candidates must be entering their final year of a three-year degree or the third year of a four-year degree in 2026.
- Future Studies: A keen interest in pursuing an Honours degree (NQF level 8) in 2027 is essential, with plans to complete tertiary education up to Honours level by the end of 2027. Master’s level students are not eligible.
- Specializations: Students specializing in Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence are also encouraged to apply.
- Employment Commitment: Applicants must be available to commence full-time permanent employment with Amazon in January 2028, contingent on receiving a job offer after the internship.
- Nationality and University: The bursary is exclusively open to South African citizens studying at South African universities.
- Academic Performance: Consistent academic excellence, maintaining an average of 65% and above, is a prerequisite.
Application Process and Obligations
The application window for the Amazon Recruitment Bursary opens annually on May 1st, with applications reviewed on an ongoing basis. Prospective candidates must complete their application through StudyTrust’s online platform. Shortlisted applicants will then proceed to an additional assessment phase with Amazon.
Successful bursary recipients undertake specific obligations:
- Internship Completion: Mandatory completion of a paid Amazon internship.
- Training Participation: Active engagement in all required training programs.
- Employment Obligation: To receive 100% of the bursary funding, candidates are expected to be open to accepting a full-time, permanent SDE position for a duration equal to the years of bursary received, provided a job offer is extended after the internship assessment.
This program represents a unique opportunity for aspiring software development engineers in South Africa to gain invaluable experience, financial support, and a clear pathway to a rewarding career at a global technology leader like Amazon.
For more information and to apply, visit the StudyTrust website.
