The African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Bursary is to support high-performing university students who showcase academic excellence, leardership quality and a dedication to contributing to the skills development needed for the country's future. ARM is continually investing in professionals needed for the country through this bursary. A detailed description that includes eligibility requirements, study field, covered costs as well as applications is listed below.
African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) is one of the leading mining and minerals enterprises in South Africa with operations that are diversfied in iron ore, manganese, chrome, platinum group metals, nickel, coal and gold. ARM also has a strategic investment in Harmony Gold Mining Company. The ARM is a significant contributor to the mining industry in South Africa and is dedicated to transformation, skills development and the gowth of human capital through programs such as its bursary scheme.
ARM Bursary Programme is available to sponsor students during the 2026 academic year and targets students who are currently pursuing studies at a university. The ARM Bursary Programme aims to develop future professionals who can contrbute to the economy and the mining sectors of South Africa. The bursary award is given for the entire study period in the approved course, provided the scholar performs well academically.
Universities and Fields of Study Covered
University of Cape Town
The bursaries are provided to students currently pursuing their first, second or third year of studies in the fields of study listed below:
- Accounting
- Electrical Engineering
- Data Science
- Computer Science \ Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
Stellenbosch University
Bursaries are available to students who have completed their first year of study in the following fields:
- Geology
- Process Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Only students registered at the specified institutions and in approved fields will be considered.
What the Bursary Covers
The Bursary provides comprehensive financial support which may include:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees for the full duration of the course
- Accomodation in official university residence
- A laptop
- Prescribed textbook
- Meals
Only costs related to the approved bursary will be covered.
Duration of the Bursary
The bursary is awarded for the remaining duration of the student's approved qualification, provided that the student maintains satisfactory academic performance each year.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be registered at the University of Cape Town or Stellenbosch University
- Be studying in one of the approved fields listed above
- Have completed the required years of study (depending on institution)
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Not be in receipt of another bursary at the time of application
Filure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates may be required to:
- Attend a panel interview
- Complete psychometric assessments
Academic performance is a key factor in the selection process.
Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following certified documents:
- South African ID documet
- Grade 12 certificate
- Latest academic record from the university
- Proof of university acceptance or registration
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
The ARM Bursary does not have an application form downloadable online for applicants to fill out as in other bursaries. Rather, an application has to be sent via an email.
To apply you must:
- Write a professional email and attach the set of required documents
- Email your application to: armbrightsparks@arm.co.za.
- With the correct subject line (for example ARM Bursary Application 2026)
Closing Date
The closing date for application is:
30 January 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Applicants who do not receive feedback within 21 days after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful
Contact Details
For any questions related to this bursary programme, please contact ARM directly:
Email: ARMbrightsparks@arm.co.za
Terms and Conditions
Please note the following conditions apply:
- Applications must be South African citizens
- Students already receiving a bursary will not be considered
- ARM will not cover costs incurred before the bursary is awarded
- Only approved bursary-related expenses will be covered
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes onlyyyy. Applicants should confirm all details directly with African Rainbow Minerals before applying.