Ready for a Bright Future in Mining and Engineering?
If you’re a student at Stellenbosch University and you’re dreaming of working in South Africa’s fast‑growing mining or engineering industries, there’s a chance you might not have to worry about paying school fees. African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) is looking for bright minds to join its 2026 ARM Bursary Programme. This is more than a scholarship – it’s a full‑package deal that covers registration, tuition, a room in the university dorm, a laptop, textbooks, meals, and even some extra support. The deadline to apply is 30 January 2026, so act fast if you meet the rules.
Quick Snapshot
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | ARM Bursary 2026 |
| Deadline | 30 January 2026 |
| Who can apply | Stellenbosch students who have finished at least one year |
| Fields covered | Geology, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Process Engineering |
| What it pays for | Registration, tuition, accommodation, laptop, books, meals |
| Location | Only for Stellenbosch applicants |
| Apply by | Email armbrightsparks@arm.co.za |
| Who can get it | Only South African citizens |
What Does the Bursary Pay For?
If you win the bursary, everything that is usually a headache will be taken care of:
- Full registration fees
- Tuition for all your years at university
- A place to live in the official campus housing
- A laptop to keep your studies on track
- All the textbooks you need
- Regular meals so you’re never hungry
- Guidance and chances to grow your skills
It’s a full package that can give you a head start in your career.
Which Courses Are Covered?
ARM is looking for students in the following areas:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Geology
- Process Engineering
If you’re studying any of these, you’re in the running.
What Do You Need to Send In?
Before you write your email, gather these documents. Make sure each copy is stamped or dated within the last three months:
- A recent, certified copy of your South African ID
- A certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate
- Your university academic record
- Your university acceptance letter, if you haven’t started yet
- Proof that you have finished at least one year of study
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Checklist)
- South African citizen
- Registered at Stellenbosch University
- Completed a minimum of one year of studies
- Enrolled in one of the listed fields
- Good academic standing
- Willing to attend an interview and a simple test
If you’re already receiving another bursary, you can’t apply for this one.
How Do You Send Your Application?
- Scan each document clearly – PDFs are best.
- Write a short motivation email (no more than one page). Explain why you want this bursary and what you hope to achieve.
- Put all the documents and your email together in one single file or attach them to one email.
- Send the email to armbrightsparks@arm.co.za.
- Use a subject line that says “ARM Bursary 2026 – Your Name & Course”.
- Wait up to 21 working days for a reply.
If you do not get a response in that time after the deadline, you probably didn’t make it.
Important Rules
- Interviews and simple tests may be required.
- ARM will not refund money you paid before the bursary is approved.
- The funding only covers costs listed above.
- Your grades will be checked once a year to keep the bursary.
- The final call comes from the ARM Selection Committee.
How Edupstairs Can Help
We don’t just share job posts – we help you win them.
- Free CV Builder – use it to create a clean resume.
- Write a strong motivation letter – talk about your goals, why you love solving problems, and what you want to do in the future.
- Show any lab work, projects, or volunteer work – it counts.
- Talk about how you’ve improved in school – not just your marks.
- Follow up politely if you haven’t heard back – but only after the application window is closed.
- Apply early – waiting until the last day can be risky.
What Happens After You Graduate?
The bursary can open a door to several career routes:
| Stage | Possible Jobs |
|---|---|
| Internship | Graduate Engineer / Geologist |
| Learnership/Traineeship | Engineering Technician / Process Plant Trainee |
| Placement | Junior Engineer / Geotechnical Assistant |
| Development | Mine Operations / Project Engineer |
| Advanced | Senior Engineer / Head of Mining Operations |
With time, you could become a Mine Manager, a Consulting Geologist, a Metallurgical Engineer, a Process Engineering Specialist, a Plant Manager, or an Environmental & Safety Consultant.
FAQ
Can first‑year students apply?
No, you must have finished at least your first year.Does it cover postgraduate study?
The notice only talks about undergraduate courses.Is a job guaranteed if I win?
No, but being a bursary holder gives you priority in job offers from ARM.What if I already have a partial bursary?
Your application will not be considered.When will interviews happen?
After the documents are checked, interviews will be scheduled by appointment.
Closing Date
30 January 2026 – mark it on your calendar.
How to Apply
You can send your application by email. Just write to armbrightsparks@arm.co.za with the subject line “ARM Bursary 2026 – [Your Name]”.
A Word of Caution
This information comes from the official ARM posting. Edupstairs is not a recruitment agency and does not handle applications. Always double‑check with ARM directly before you share personal info or make any payments.
Ready to step into a bright future in mining and engineering? Gather your documents, craft a clear motivation letter, and send your application before 30 January. Good luck!
