The African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Bursary 2026 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for academically strong South African students pursuing studies in engineering, science, technology, and accounting. This bursary is ideal for students currently studying at the University of Cape Town (UCT) or the University of Stellenbosch (SU) who aspire to build a long-term career in the mining and minerals sector.
With applications closing on 30 January 2026, eligible students are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing out.
About African Rainbow Minerals (ARM)
African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) is one of South Africa’s leading diversified mining companies. Founded by Patrice Motsepe, ARM made history as the first black-owned mining company in the country and has since grown into a globally respected mining group.
ARM operates across South Africa and Malaysia and is involved in the extraction and beneficiation of key minerals, including:
- Iron ore
- Manganese ore
- Chrome ore
- Platinum Group Metals (PGMs)
- Nickel
- Coal
ARM Divisions
ARM operates through the following major divisions:
- ARM Platinum – Modikwa, Two Rivers, and Nkomati mines
- ARM Ferrous – 50% ownership of Assmang (iron ore and manganese)
- ARM Coal – Merged operations with Glencore
- Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd – Gold assets in South Africa and Papua New Guinea
ARM is deeply committed to skills development, transformation, and youth empowerment, making its bursary programme one of the most sought-after in the mining sector.
About the ARM Bursary Programme 2026
The ARM Bursary Programme aims to support high-performing students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a desire to grow within the mining and minerals industry.
The bursary contributes to South Africa’s skills pipeline while empowering students to succeed academically and professionally.
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries are awarded only for studies at the following universities and disciplines:
University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Accounting
- Computer Science / Information Technology (IT)
- Data Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
University of Stellenbosch (SU)
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Geology
- Process Engineering
What the ARM Bursary Covers
The ARM bursary is fully funded and covers the following expenses:
- Registration fees
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Laptop allowance
- Accommodation in university residence
- Meals
Note: Outstanding or historical student debt is not covered by the bursary.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 21 days after the closing date. If you do not receive feedback within this period, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Selected applicants will be required to:
- Attend a panel interview
- Complete psychometric assessments
Final selection is based on academic merit, potential, and alignment with ARM’s values.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the ARM Bursary 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed Matric
- Be registered at UCT or Stellenbosch University
- Be studying in one of the listed fields
- UCT students: must have completed 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year
- SU students: must have completed 1st year
- Maintain a strong academic record
- Not be receiving any other bursary funding
Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.
How to Apply for the ARM Bursary 2026
There is no application form to complete.
Eligible students must apply via email.
Email Address:
[email protected]
Email Subject Line:
ARM Bursary 2026
Required Supporting Documents
Submit clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Full university academic record (official letterhead)
- University acceptance or registration letter
Applications with missing documents will be automatically disqualified.
Closing Date
30 January 2026
Late applications will not be accepted. Apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Contact Details
For bursary-related enquiries only, contact African Rainbow Minerals directly:
Email: [email protected]
Please do not contact ARM or the university if the bursary has already closed.
Why You Should Apply for the ARM Bursary
- Fully funded university education
- Access to one of South Africa’s top mining companies
- Career development and industry exposure
- Strong focus on transformation and youth empowerment
Explore More Bursaries
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This bursary listing was last updated in January 2026.
We wish all applicants the best of luck. Share this opportunity with anyone who may need financial support for their studies.