If you are a Grade 12 learner who dreams of becoming an engineer or scientist but worries about the cost of university, the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027 could be the opportunity that changes your future.
Higher education costs continue to increase each year, making it difficult for many talented South African learners to pursue their studies. Bursary programmes like this one help remove those financial barriers while giving students exposure to one of South Africa’s leading mining and refining companies.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
Impala Platinum Refineries (Implats Refineries) is inviting academically strong Grade 12 learners to apply for its 2027 Tertiary Bursary Programme. The bursary supports selected university students studying engineering and science-related qualifications while also providing valuable vacation work and career development opportunities.
Applications close on 31 August 2026, so interested learners should begin preparing their documents as soon as possible.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | Details |
| 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 | Engineering and Science |
About the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027
The bursary is aimed at high-performing Grade 12 learners who intend studying towards a university degree in selected engineering or science disciplines.
Unlike many bursaries that simply pay tuition fees, the Implats bursary is designed to support students throughout their academic journey while preparing them for future careers within industry.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to:
- Focus on their studies without major financial stress.
- Gain practical workplace experience.
- Build professional relationships.
- Learn from experienced engineers and scientists.
- Develop skills required in South Africa’s mining and metallurgical sectors.
Students who perform well academically and professionally position themselves for exciting career opportunities after completing their studies.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary supports NQF Level 7 degree qualifications in the following fields:
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current preferred)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemistry
These qualifications remain among South Africa’s most in-demand technical careers.
Graduates in these disciplines often find employment opportunities within:
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Petrochemical industries
- Heavy engineering
- Research laboratories
- Mineral processing
- Industrial production
- Process optimisation
- Environmental management
What the Bursary Covers
One of the biggest advantages of the Implats bursary is that it provides more than just tuition funding.
Successful bursary recipients can expect financial assistance that includes:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation costs
- Study materials
- Academic support
In addition, students receive:
- December and January vacation work at the Refineries
- Practical industry exposure
- Workplace experience
- Professional development
- Long-term skills development
Vacation work is particularly valuable because it allows students to apply classroom knowledge in a real industrial environment.
Many graduates struggle to secure employment because they lack practical experience. This programme helps bridge that gap before graduation.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following academic requirements:
- Currently in Grade 12.
- Mathematics: Minimum 60% (Level 5).
- English: Minimum 60% (Level 5).
- Physical Science: Minimum 60% (Level 5).
These minimum requirements indicate that the bursary is aimed at learners with a strong academic foundation in mathematics and science.
Meeting the minimum marks does not automatically guarantee selection, as competition is expected to be high.
Learners with stronger academic performance will generally have a better chance of being shortlisted.
Required Supporting Documents
Before beginning your online application, prepare certified copies of the following documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Proof of residence (for example, your parent’s municipal account).
- Grade 11 results.
- Conditional university acceptance letter.
Applicants should ensure every document is clear, certified where required and uploaded in the correct format.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Preference Will Be Given To
According to the bursary advertisement, preference will be given to learners from:
- Eastern Ekurhuleni
- Ward 72
- Schools surrounding the Implats Refineries operation
However, applicants who meet all requirements should still review the official application guidelines before deciding whether to apply.
Selection Process
After applications close, shortlisted candidates can expect to participate in several assessment processes.
These may include:
- Academic screening
- Document verification
- Aptitude assessments
- Interviews
- Psychometric testing
- Background verification
Only shortlisted candidates will proceed through the assessment stages.
Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Tips for Preparing a Strong Application
Competition for engineering bursaries can be intense.
To improve your chances:
Keep your CV professional
Although you may have little work experience, include:
- Academic achievements
- Leadership positions
- School projects
- Community involvement
- Computer skills
- Extracurricular activities
Double-check your documents
Many applications are rejected because documents are:
- Missing
- Incorrectly certified
- Illegible
- Uploaded incorrectly
Review everything before submitting.
Apply early
Avoid waiting until the final day.
Applying early gives you enough time to correct any issues should they arise.
Focus on your final Grade 12 performance
Although Grade 11 results form part of the application, your Grade 12 performance remains important throughout the selection process.
Continue working hard in:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- English
How to Apply
Before submitting your application:
- Complete all required information.
- Upload every supporting document.
- Ensure documents are certified where required.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before 31 August 2026.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
APPLY FOR THE IMPALA PLATINUM REFINERIES BURSARY PROGRAMME 2027 HERE
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Edupstairs Advice
Engineering and science bursaries remain some of the most competitive funding opportunities in South Africa. If you qualify for the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme, do not rely on this application alone. Apply for multiple bursaries in your chosen field to improve your chances of securing funding for your studies.
Take time to prepare a professional CV, organise all your supporting documents, and submit your application well before the closing date. Strong academic results, attention to detail, and a complete application can make a significant difference during the selection process.
Remember that opportunities like this are not only about funding—they are also about building a long-term career with valuable workplace exposure and professional development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who can apply?
Current Grade 12 learners who meet the required Mathematics, English and Physical Science marks.
- Does the bursary include accommodation?
Yes. The bursary provides financial assistance that includes accommodation, tuition and study materials.
- Is vacation work included?
Yes. Successful students participate in December and January vacation work at the Refineries.
- What is the closing date?
Applications close on 31 August 2026.
- Will everyone receive feedback?
No. Only shortlisted candidates will continue through the selection process. If you receive no response within 30 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Is work experience required?
No. The programme targets Grade 12 learners preparing to begin university studies.
- What qualifications are funded?
NQF Level 7 university degrees in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemistry
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Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended to help prospective applicants understand the Impala Platinum Refineries Bursary Programme 2027. Applicants should always consult the official Implats careers website for the most up-to-date information, application procedures, eligibility criteria and any changes before submitting an application.
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