African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) invites eligible and motivated South African university students to apply for the ARM Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This bursary is aimed at supporting students studying in critical skills areas linked to mining, engineering, technology, and finance, while strengthening South Africa’s future professional workforce.
About the ARM Bursary Programme 2026
The ARM Bursary Programme provides comprehensive financial assistance to deserving students enrolled at selected South African universities. Funding is awarded for the full duration of the approved qualification, subject to satisfactory academic performance and compliance with bursary conditions.
The programme focuses on students who have already demonstrated academic commitment and potential and who require financial support to complete their studies.
Universities and Fields of Study Covered
University of Cape Town (UCT)
At the University of Cape Town, the bursary is available to students who have completed their first, second, or third year of study in the following fields:
- Accounting
- Electrical Engineering
- Data Science
- Computer Science or Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
Stellenbosch University
At Stellenbosch University, the bursary is available to students who have completed their first year of study in the following disciplines:
- Geology
- Process Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
What the ARM Bursary Covers
The ARM Bursary offers full financial support linked to the approved course of study. Coverage includes:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees for the full duration of the qualification
- Accommodation in official university residences
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals
- A laptop
Only costs directly related to the approved bursary will be covered.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To be considered for the ARM Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be registered at either the University of Cape Town or Stellenbosch University
- Must be studying in one of the approved fields listed above
- Applicants already receiving another bursary will not be considered
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit all required documentation. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The following documents are mandatory:
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
- Full academic record from the university
- University acceptance or registration letter
Ensure that all documents are clear and correctly certified.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email with all required documents attached.
Email applications to:
Only applications submitted to the specified email address will be considered. Applicants are advised to double-check that all documents are included before submission.
Selection Process and Conditions
- Academic performance will be a key selection criterion
- Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend panel interviews and psychometric assessments
- ARM will not cover any costs incurred before the bursary is formally awarded
- Funding is subject to bursary terms and ongoing academic performance
If no response is received within 21 days after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
About African Rainbow Minerals (ARM)
African Rainbow Minerals is a leading diversified mining and minerals company in South Africa, with operations spanning iron ore, manganese, chrome, platinum group metals, nickel, coal, and strategic interests in gold. Through its bursary programme, ARM continues to invest in skills development and long-term capacity building within South Africa’s mining, engineering, and technology sectors.
Conclusion
The ARM Bursary Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for students studying scarce and critical skills at UCT and Stellenbosch University to complete their qualifications with full financial support. For students who meet the requirements and demonstrate strong academic commitment, this bursary can play a vital role in securing a stable and successful professional future.
The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
