Applications for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 are now open, offering South African students a fully funded opportunity to study in high-demand mining and engineering fields. The bursary not only covers tuition fees but also provides accommodation, textbooks, and a monthly stipend, ensuring students can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress.
In addition to financial support, the program offers structured vacation work and a guaranteed graduate internship, giving students valuable industry exposure and improving their chances of employment after graduation.
Students interested in building careers in the mining sector must submit their applications before 18 February 2026.
Reference Number: THMB006RM
Overview of the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026
The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 is designed to develop the next generation of professionals in the mining and engineering sectors. South Africa’s mining industry continues to face a shortage of skilled technical professionals, and this bursary program aims to address that challenge.
The initiative supports students pursuing qualifications in scarce and critical skills within the mining and mineral processing industries.
Key Objectives of the Bursary Program
The bursary program focuses on three main goals:
- Developing highly skilled mining and engineering professionals
- Strengthening South Africa’s technical workforce
- Creating structured career pathways for graduates entering the mining industry
Funding for successful applicants will begin in the first semester of 2026.
What the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary Covers
The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 offers comprehensive financial support. Successful applicants receive funding that covers essential educational expenses.
Financial Benefits Include:
- Full tuition fees
- Student accommodation
- Required academic textbooks
- Monthly allowance for living expenses
This full funding model allows students to concentrate on academic success without worrying about financial barriers.
Beyond financial assistance, the bursary also provides real-world industry exposure, which is essential for students planning long-term careers in mining and engineering.
Fields of Study Supported by the Tharisa Bursary
The bursary is available to students pursuing qualifications in specific disciplines that are considered critical to the mining sector.
Eligible study fields include:
- Mining Engineering (REF: M-ENG003)
- Geology (REF: GEO-003)
- Chemical Analysis (REF: A-C003)
- Electrical Engineering (REF: E-ENG003)
- Mechanical Engineering (REF: MEC-E003)
- Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering (REF: MET/CHE003)
- Mechatronics Engineering (REF: MECT-E003)
Applicants must already be registered or accepted at a recognized tertiary institution in one of these fields.
These programs are closely aligned with the skills shortages within South Africa’s mining and mineral processing industries, making graduates highly valuable in the job market.
Eligibility Requirements for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026
To qualify for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026, applicants must meet several minimum requirements.
Minimum Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have a Matric certificate
- Achieve at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Provide proof of acceptance or registration at a recognized tertiary institution
- Submit a complete academic transcript
Students who are currently receiving another bursary or sponsorship will not be eligible for this program.
The selection process is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection.
Work-Back Obligations and Career Opportunities
One of the unique features of the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 is the structured career development pathway it offers.
Recipients must fulfill specific work-related obligations designed to provide professional experience.
Bursary Work Requirements
Students who receive the bursary will be required to:
- Participate in vacation work at the mine after each academic year
- Complete a minimum one-year graduate internship at Tharisa after graduation
This structured exposure to real mining operations provides valuable experience and helps graduates transition smoothly into professional roles.
By the time students complete their studies, they will have both academic knowledge and practical industry experience, significantly improving their employability.
Selection Criteria for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026
The final selection of bursary recipients will be based on multiple factors.
Selection Considerations
The evaluation process includes:
- Academic performance
- Minimum 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution
- Supporting documentation submitted during the application process
Preference may be given to applicants from local communities and labour-sending areas, in line with employment equity and company policies.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants must prepare and upload several documents when submitting their application.
Documents Required
The following documents must be included:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter from the institution
- Full academic record or transcript
Important Upload Instructions
Applicants must ensure that:
- The CV is uploaded in the “CV” section
- Supporting documents are uploaded under “Qualifications and Payslip”
- All documents are certified and clearly visible
Incorrect document placement or missing documents may lead to disqualification.
How to Apply for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026
Applications for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 must be submitted online.
Application Process
Follow these steps when applying:
- Complete the online application form
- Enter the reference number: THMB006RM
- Fill in all required information accurately
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Review the application before submission
Applicants should double-check that all information is accurate and that required fields are fully completed.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Employment Equity and Fair Selection
The bursary program is aligned with South Africa’s employment equity policies.
Where applicable, preference may be given to applicants from designated groups and communities surrounding mining operations.
However, all applications are reviewed fairly based on:
- Academic performance
- Eligibility requirements
- Quality and accuracy of submitted documentation
- Alignment with industry skill needs
Meeting the minimum criteria does not automatically guarantee selection, as the program remains highly competitive.
Why the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 Matters
The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 provides more than financial assistance. It offers a complete career development pathway for students interested in mining and engineering.
Key Career Benefits
Recipients gain access to:
- Full educational funding
- Structured industry exposure
- Vacation work opportunities
- A guaranteed graduate internship
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
For students who are passionate about mining and technical careers, this bursary offers a direct pathway from university to employment.
The combination of academic support and practical training helps graduates develop the skills needed to succeed in one of South Africa’s most important industries.
Application Deadline
Students must submit their applications before the official closing date.
Application Deadline: 18 February 2026
Early applications are encouraged to avoid last-minute technical issues or missing documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary cover?
The bursary covers full tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and provides a monthly allowance for living expenses.
Is the graduate internship mandatory?
Yes. All bursary recipients must complete at least one year of graduate internship with Tharisa after finishing their studies.
Can students who already have another bursary apply?
No. Students who are currently funded by another sponsorship or bursary are not eligible.
What are the minimum academic requirements?
Applicants must have at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric.
Who receives preference in the selection process?
Preference may be given to applicants from designated groups and local communities, in accordance with employment equity policies.
Final Thoughts
The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 represents a major opportunity for South African students pursuing careers in mining and engineering. With full financial support, structured work experience, and a guaranteed internship, the program offers a powerful pathway into the mining industry.
Students who meet the academic requirements and are passionate about technical fields should take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications before 18 February 2026.
For many aspiring engineers and mining professionals, this bursary could be the key to unlocking both higher education and long-term career success in South Africa’s mining sector.