University fees are rising fast, and the deadline for one of South Africa’s biggest engineering bursaries is only weeks away. If you are a Grade 12 learner who wants to study engineering or science, the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027 could change your future, but you must act now.
What the bursary is
Implats Refineries is offering a fully‑funded tertiary bursary for 2027. The programme supports students who enroll in NQF Level 7 (degree) courses in engineering or science, and it includes paid vacation work at the refinery in Springs, Gauteng.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Company | Impala Platinum Refineries (Implats) |
| Location | Springs, Gauteng |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Type | Full‑time tertiary bursary |
| Department | Human Resources – Talent Management |
| Closing date | 31 August 2026 |
| Qualification level | NQF Level 7 (degree) |
| Target applicants | Grade 12 learners |
| Fields of study | Engineering and Science (see below) |
Who can apply
- Currently in Grade 12.
- Mathematics – at least 60 % (Level 5).
- English – at least 60 % (Level 5).
- Physical Science – at least 60 % (Level 5).
- Conditional acceptance from a university offering a qualifying degree.
Preference will be given to learners from Eastern Ekurhuleni, Ward 72, or schools close to the Implats refinery.
Fields of study covered
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current preferred)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemistry
What you will receive
The bursary goes beyond tuition fees. Successful students get:
- Payment of tuition fees.
- Accommodation allowance.
- Study materials and academic support.
- Paid vacation work in December–January at the refineries.
- Mentoring from practising engineers and scientists.
- Professional development workshops and long‑term skills training.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents and have them certified:
- South African ID (certified copy).
- Updated CV.
- Proof of residence (e.g., a municipal bill).
- Grade 11 results.
- Conditional university acceptance letter.
- Visit the official Implats careers page.
- Complete the online application form, entering all personal and academic details.
- Upload each certified document in the requested format.
- Review the entire application for completeness and accuracy.
- Submit before the closing date: 31 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Keep your CV focused. Highlight grades, leadership roles, school projects, community work, and any computer or lab skills.
- Check every document. Ensure they are clear, correctly certified, and legible before uploading.
- Apply early. Submitting well before the deadline allows time to fix any technical issues.
- Maintain strong Grade 12 results. Your final marks in maths, physical science and English are still considered during selection.
- Prepare for assessments. If shortlisted, you may face aptitude tests, interviews, and psychometric evaluations.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria and are ready to apply, click the link below to start your application. Remember, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and if you do not hear back within 30 days after the deadline, you should consider the application unsuccessful.
Apply for the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the bursary cover accommodation? Yes – accommodation costs are included in the financial package.
- Is vacation work part of the bursary? Yes – you will work at the refineries during December and January each year.
- What is the official deadline? Applications close on 31 August 2026.
- Will I receive feedback? Only shortlisted candidates are contacted. No response after 30 days means the application was not successful.
- Do I need prior work experience? No. The programme is aimed at Grade 12 learners entering university.
- Which qualifications are funded? NQF Level 7 degrees in the five fields listed above.
Take the time to organise your documents, polish your CV, and submit your application before the deadline. This bursary not only finances your studies but also offers real‑world experience that can launch a lasting career in South Africa’s mining and engineering sectors.
