If you’re a South African student who wants a steady stream of money to pay for college, African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) has a special offer for you. They’re running the ARM Bursary Programme for 2026, and it’s a chance to get full financial help while you study at either the University of Cape Town (UCT) or Stellenbosch University. The bursary will pay your tuition, keep you in a university dorm, give you a laptop, books, and even your meals. It’s a big win for anyone who needs a budget boost to finish their degree.
What the Bursary Covers
- Registration fees – The cost of signing up for each semester.
- Tuition fees – All the money you’d normally pay to the university for the whole course.
- Accommodation – A spot in an official university dorm so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to live.
- Laptop – A computer that you can use for classes, projects, and studying.
- Books – The required textbooks that come with your program.
- Meals – Daily food allowance so you don’t have to worry about grocery bills.
Who Can Apply
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to have a solid academic record. The better your grades, the higher your chances.
- You cannot already be on another bursary. ARM wants to support students who don’t have other full aid.
- If you’re accepted or already registered at UCT or Stellenbosch University, you’re eligible.
What You’ll Need to Send In
- A copy of your South African ID – Make sure it’s certified.
- Your Grade 12 (Matric) certificate – Also certified.
- Your full academic record from the university you are attending.
- Your acceptance or registration letter from the university.
All of these documents must be included in one email. If any part is missing, your application will not be considered.
Where You Can Study
University of Cape Town (UCT) – Bursaries are available to students who are in their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year of study in these subjects:
- Accounting
- Electrical Engineering
- Data Science
- Computer Science / Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
Stellenbosch University – Bursaries are available to students who have finished their 1st year of study in these areas:
- Geology
- Process Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
How to Apply
Send all the documents and a short cover note to armbrightsparks@arm.co.za before the deadline. Make sure every file is attached and that the information is correct. ARM will only look at the email address they gave, so don’t send it anywhere else.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: 30 January 2026
- Follow‑up: If you don’t hear back within 21 days after the deadline, you will not be selected.
What Happens After You Apply
If your application looks good, you might be called for a panel interview or a psychometric test. These steps help ARM see how well you fit the program. Remember, your academic performance will play a big part in the decision.
A Quick Look at ARM
African Rainbow Minerals is one of the big names in mining and minerals in South Africa. They work with many products, from iron ore to gold, and they’re always looking to support young people who want to build a future in mining, engineering, or technology.
A Final Reminder
If you’re in a field that ARM lists—engineering, tech, or accounting—and you’re at UCT or Stellenbosch, this bursary is a real chance to get the money you need to finish school. Don’t wait. Email your application to armbrightsparks@arm.co.za before 30 January 2026. Good luck!