Marula Platinum Mine Bursaries 2026 open for local students pursuing mining, engineering, and business studies at selected universities.
Marula Platinum Mine Bursaries 2026
For many learners in mining communities, getting into university is only half the battle. The bigger challenge is funding — especially for demanding degrees like engineering and geology. That is why the Marula Platinum Mine Bursaries 2026 stand out. They are not widely advertised online, they require physical submission, and they are strictly community-focused.
Marula Platinum Mine has officially opened applications, giving local students a short but important window to secure financial support for the 2026 academic year. For families facing unemployment, rising living costs, and limited access to study loans, this bursary can be life-changing.
What the Marula Platinum Mine Bursary Covers
The Marula Platinum Mine Bursary Programme is managed through the Human Resource Development unit, with a clear focus on building skills that feed directly into mining operations.
Successful bursary recipients receive:
- Full registration and tuition fees
- Residence and meal allowances
- A cash allowance for basic needs
- Mentorship and structured academic support
- A personal computer allowance from second year
This level of support allows students to focus on studying rather than surviving. In high-pressure degrees like engineering, that difference matters.
Fields of Study Linked to Real Jobs
Unlike generic bursaries, Marula’s programme is tightly aligned with industry demand. The mine prioritises qualifications that support its long-term operational needs.
Engineering and technical fields include:
- Mining Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy / Chemical Engineering
- Mining Survey
- Geology
Business and support fields include:
- Human Resources
These qualifications are not chosen randomly. They reflect areas where skilled graduates are still needed, particularly within mining and heavy industry.
Who Qualifies — and Why the Criteria Are Strict
The bursary is targeted at local community applicants only, reinforcing Marula’s commitment to surrounding communities.
Academic requirements include:
- Grade 12 with a University Exemption Pass
- Minimum “C” symbols in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English
- Current university students must hold a minimum 60% average
Applicants must be studying or accepted at one of the following institutions:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
- North-West University (Potchefstroom)
- University of Limpopo
These requirements are demanding, but they reflect the reality of mining-related degrees. The academic load is heavy, and the mine invests in students who are likely to complete their studies successfully.
Application Method: What Many Students Miss
One of the most important details — and the one that catches many applicants off guard — is that this is not an online application.
All applications must be:
- Hand-delivered
- Submitted to the Community Labour Desk / Marula Stakeholder Department
- Submitted before 09 January 2026
Application form
Click here to download the Marula Platinum Mine Bursary Application Form for 2026
Late applications are not considered, and incomplete documentation leads to disqualification. In rural areas where transport is limited, planning ahead is essential.
Psychometric Assessments and Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will not be awarded bursaries immediately. After interviews, applicants must undergo psychometric assessments.
These assessments evaluate:
- Work readiness
- Problem-solving ability
- Behavioural strengths
- Long-term role alignment
Importantly, invitations for assessment are only issued once a university admission letter is submitted. This ensures the mine invests in students who are academically confirmed and career-ready.
Why Mining Bursaries Still Matter in 2026
Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges. Even graduates struggle to transition into work without industry exposure. Mining bursaries like this one offer more than funding — they offer a pipeline into employment.
Students supported by industry bursaries often gain:
- Vacation work opportunities
- Access to mentors inside the sector
- Better understanding of workplace expectations
For local community students, this can break a cycle of unemployment that affects entire households.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply online or by email?
No. Applications must be physically submitted at the Community Labour Desk.
Who is allowed to apply?
Only local community applicants linked to Marula Platinum Mine.
What happens if I don’t yet have a medical certificate?
You may submit proof that you are medically fit to obtain one.
Does the bursary guarantee a job after graduation?
No. However, it significantly improves employability and access to mining-related roles.
Where can I get the application form?
The Marula Platinum Mine Bursary Application Form for 2026 must be downloaded and completed before submission.
Final Thoughts for Applicants
The Marula Platinum Mine Bursary Programme is not easy to access — and that is intentional. It is designed for committed, capable students who are serious about completing their studies and contributing to the mining sector.
For local learners who meet the criteria and can act quickly, this bursary represents one of the most meaningful education opportunities available in 2026.
External references
- Marula Platinum Mine (official employer source)
- South African public universities listed above
Internal reference
- Related bursary and skills development guidance available on relevant education and training platforms



