Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026: Full Funding for Mining and Engineering Students in South Africa

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Apply for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 and receive full tuition, accommodation, books, and a monthly allowance. Open to South African students in mining and engineering fields. Closing date: 18 February 2026.


The Tharisa plc has opened applications for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026, offering full financial support to qualifying South African students pursuing careers in mining and engineering.

This bursary goes beyond tuition assistance. It includes accommodation, prescribed books, and a monthly allowance. In addition, recipients gain structured industry exposure through vacation work and a guaranteed graduate internship.

If you are studying in a scarce or critical mining-related field and meet the eligibility criteria, this bursary could provide both financial relief and a direct pathway into the mining industry.

📌 Closing Date: 18 February 2026
📎 Reference Number: THMB006RM


Bursary Overview

The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 is designed to support students pursuing qualifications in scarce and critical skills within the mining sector.

The programme aims to:

  • Develop future professionals in mining and engineering
  • Strengthen South Africa’s technical workforce
  • Provide structured career pathways within the mining industry

Successful bursary recipients will receive funding from the first semester of 2026.


What the Bursary Covers

The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 provides comprehensive financial support, including:

  • Full tuition fees
  • Accommodation
  • Prescribed textbooks
  • Monthly allowance

This support enables students to focus on academic performance without financial stress.


Fields of Study Covered

The bursary is available to students studying in the following disciplines:

  • Mining Engineering (REF: M-ENG003)
  • Geology (REF: GEO-003)
  • Analytical Chemistry (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 be registered or accepted to study in one of the above-mentioned fields.

These disciplines are aligned with critical skills shortages in the mining and mineral processing sectors.


Who Qualifies for the Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026?

Scholarship Bursary 2026 Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Have a Matric certificate with at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science
  • Provide proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
  • Submit a full academic record

Students currently benefiting from another bursary or sponsorship will not be considered.

Preference will be given to applicants from local communities and labour-sending areas, in line with company and employment equity requirements.


Bursary Obligations and Work-Back Conditions

The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 includes structured work exposure and post-study obligations.

Bursary recipients must:

  • Participate in vacation work at the mine at the end of each academic year
  • Join Tharisa as a graduate intern for at least one year after completing their studies

This ensures practical industry experience and smoother transition into the professional environment.

Final selection will consider:

  • Academic performance
  • Minimum 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science
  • Proof of registration or acceptance

Required Documents

Applicants must upload the following documents when applying:

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Certified copy of South African Identity Document
  • Proof of registration or institution acceptance letter
  • Full academic record

Important:

  • The CV must be uploaded in the designated “CV” field
  • Supporting documents must be uploaded under “Qualifications and Payslip”

Failure to upload documents in the correct sections may result in disqualification.


How to Apply for the Tharisa Bursary 2026

Applications must be submitted online.

📎 Reference Number: THMB006RM

Applicants should carefully complete all required fields and attach all supporting documents before submission.

Ensure that:

  • Documents are clear and certified
  • All information is accurate
  • Required fields are completed correctly

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Scholarship Bursary 2026

Employment Equity and Selection

In line with Employment Equity requirements, Tharisa plc will give preference to designated groups where applicable.

All applications will be assessed fairly based on:

  • Academic merit
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Supporting documentation
  • Alignment with company skills needs

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.


Why This Bursary Matters for Your Career

The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 provides more than financial assistance. It offers:

  • Structured vacation work experience
  • Guaranteed graduate internship placement
  • Exposure to real mining operations
  • Professional mentorship

For students serious about building long-term careers in mining, engineering, or technical fields, this programme provides a clear pathway from education to employment.

Industry experience gained during vacation work and the graduate internship strengthens employability and practical competence.


Scholarship Bursary 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the bursary cover accommodation?

Yes. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, books, and a monthly allowance.

Is the internship compulsory?

Yes. Recipients must complete at least one year as a graduate intern after graduation.

Can I apply if I already have another bursary?

No. Students currently benefiting from another sponsorship will not be considered.

Is 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science compulsory?

Yes. A minimum of 60% in both subjects is required.

Who receives preference?

Preference is given to applicants from local communities and designated groups in line with Employment Equity policies.


Final Thoughts

The Tharisa Scholarship Bursary 2026 offers full financial support and structured industry exposure in high-demand mining and engineering fields.

If you meet the academic requirements and are committed to building a career in the mining sector, submit your application before 18 February 2026.

Prepare your documents carefully, upload them in the correct fields, and ensure your academic record meets the minimum requirements.

This bursary is not only financial support — it is a professional development pathway into one of South Africa’s most important industries.

Phindile Zwane

Hi, I'm Phindile! 🌟 I share tips and guides on learnerships and bursaries to help students to discover the best opportunities for their future. My content supports informed decision-making and aligns with South Africa’s national skills development priorities. Contact us on: info@sseta.co.za Website: https://www.sseta.co.za