Good news – the Rio Tinto / Richards Bay Minerals Bursary for 2027 is open, and the deadline is close. If you finish Matric in 2026, you have less than a month to apply for a fully funded undergraduate place.
What the opportunity is
The RBM Bursary Programme supports South African students who want to study at a recognised university. It covers tuition, fees, books and a living allowance. The programme runs for the 2027 academic year and is open for both core and non‑core fields of study.
Fields of study you can choose
Core disciplines
- Engineering: Extractive Metallurgy, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
- Sciences: Environmental Science, Geology
Non‑core disciplines
- Arts: BA programmes
- Engineering: Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, Industrial Engineering
- Health Sciences: Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine
- Humanities: Journalism, Media, Communication
- Management Sciences: Economics, Commerce, Finance
- Sciences: Computer Science, Data Science
- Social Sciences: Community Development, Criminology, Psychology
Who can apply (Eligibility)
- South African citizen
- Matriculating in 2026
- Overall Matric average of at least 65 %
- Starting first‑year undergraduate study in 2027
- Choosing one of the approved fields listed above
- Demonstrating financial need
- Enrolling at an accredited South African university
Applicants from under‑represented groups – especially women and persons with disabilities – may receive preference.
What you will gain
- Full tuition and registration fees paid
- Allowance for textbooks and learning materials
- Monthly living stipend
- Mentoring and development opportunities aligned with South Africa’s future workforce
- Potential pathways to graduate‑entry programmes at Rio Tinto / RBM
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all required documents (see list below).
- Prepare a short motivational letter explaining why you chose your field.
- Write a clear, concise CV highlighting academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
- Obtain a provisional university acceptance letter on official letterhead.
- Upload all files to the online application portal before 24 October 2026.
Core disciplines application
Apply here for Core disciplines
Non‑core disciplines application
Apply here for Non‑core disciplines
Documents you must submit
- Certified copy of your ID (≤ 3 months old)
- Certified copy of Matric mid‑year results
- Provisional university acceptance letter (official letterhead)
- Certified copies of parent/guardian IDs
- Proof of parent/guardian income (latest payslips, pension statements, social grant proof, or an affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof of residence or domicile
- Motivational letter
- Comprehensive CV
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is certified and up to date.
- Tailor your motivational letter to the specific field you are applying for.
- Proofread your CV – clear formatting and no spelling errors make a strong impression.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- If you belong to a designated group, mention it clearly in your letter; it can be a deciding factor.
Enquiries
For any questions about the bursary, email Rio Tinto at RTgraduaterecruitmentsupport@riotinto.com or recruitment.support@riotinto.com.
Closing date
24 October 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Next steps
Take a moment now to list the documents you need and start drafting your motivational letter. The sooner you begin, the more time you’ll have to perfect your application. Good luck – this could be the first step toward a bright future in your chosen field.
