The Ivanhoe Mines bursary programme for 2026 is now open, giving qualifying South African students an opportunity to further their studies through financial support from one of the country’s most advanced mining development projects.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
For many young people living in mining communities around Mokopane in Limpopo, access to tertiary education can be difficult because of financial challenges. The Ivanplats Bursary Programme aims to support students from local communities by helping them obtain qualifications that are relevant to the future operations of the Ivanplats Platreef Mine.
This bursary programme focuses on both technical and non-technical qualifications linked to the mining industry and related support services. Students who are already studying, or planning to continue their tertiary education at recognised South African universities, are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
The bursary opportunity is aimed specifically at Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) from communities surrounding the Ivanplats mining operations.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | Ivanplats Bursary Programme 2026 |
| Reference Number | IVP-HRD-2609 |
| Company | Ivanhoe Mines |
| Location | Mokopane, Limpopo |
| Closing Date | 22 May 2026 |
| Opportunity Type | Bursary Programme |
| Target Group | Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Duration | Maximum of 4 years |
| Fields of Study | Mining, Engineering, Geology, Environmental, Mine Survey, Services |
| Application Platform | Ivanhoe Communities Portal |
About Ivanplats and the Platreef Project
IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd is a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines and is currently developing the Platreef Project near Mokopane in Limpopo Province.
The Platreef Project is regarded as one of the most significant mineral discoveries in South Africa. The mine contains valuable minerals such as:
- Palladium
- Rhodium
- Nickel
- Copper
- Gold
What makes this project particularly important is its focus on modern underground mining technology and mechanised mining systems. Ivanplats describes the operation as a “mine of the future” because it plans to use advanced technologies and modern safety systems in its mining activities.
As the mine continues to expand, there will be growing demand for skilled professionals in different departments. The bursary programme is therefore part of a long-term investment in local youth development and skills training.
Fields of Study Covered by the Ivanplats Bursary Programme
The bursary programme covers qualifications relevant to Ivanplats mining operations and associated departments.
These include:
Mining
Students studying mining-related qualifications may qualify for support. This field prepares graduates for careers in underground operations, mine planning, production management, and mining safety.
Engineering
Engineering remains one of the most important sectors within mining. Students in disciplines such as:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Civil Engineering
may benefit from this opportunity depending on their qualifications.
Mine Survey
Mine survey professionals play a critical role in underground mapping, measurements, planning, and ensuring safe mining operations.
Environmental Studies
Mining companies require environmental specialists to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability requirements.
Geology
Geologists are responsible for studying mineral deposits, rock formations, and exploration processes that help guide mining development.
Services
The bursary also includes non-technical support fields that are relevant to mining operations and mine administration.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet several important requirements before applying.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must:
- Be South African citizens
- Have completed Grade 12
- Be in their first year or further years of study
- Study at a recognised South African university
- Reside within recognised Ivanplats mining communities
- Submit proof of registration or acceptance at a tertiary institution
The programme is specifically targeted at Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) from local communities.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants are required to prepare and submit several supporting documents.
These include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of Grade 12 final results
- Academic records
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter from a recognised university
- Letter from tribal authority or ward councillor confirming residence
It is very important that applicants ensure all documents are clear, certified, and uploaded correctly before submitting the application.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Conditions of the Bursary Programme
Before applying, students should understand the conditions attached to the programme.
Duration of Funding
Successful applicants may receive bursary support for a maximum period of four years for undergraduate studies.
Mining-Related Work Expectations
Students studying mining-related qualifications must be willing to:
- Work underground
- Work on surface operations
- Participate in practical mining environments
Medical Fitness
Applicants may also be required to pass a medical fitness examination, especially for mining-related qualifications where underground work is involved.
How to Apply
Before submitting your application:
- Double-check all uploaded documents
- Ensure your contact details are correct
- Use certified copies where required
- Submit before the deadline
- Ensure your proof of residence letter is valid and signed
APPLY FOR THE IVANPLATS BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Late applications will not be accepted.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Ivanplats Bursary Programme 2026 is: 22 May 2026 at 23:59
Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
What Happens After You Apply?
According to the advert, applicants who do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Because bursary opportunities are highly competitive, applicants should continue searching for additional funding opportunities while waiting for feedback.
Edupstairs Advice
At Edupstairs, we encourage students not to ignore bursary opportunities simply because they think competition is too high. Many students fail to apply because they assume they will not qualify.
If you live in communities around Mokopane and meet the minimum requirements, you should apply.
Here are important recommendations:
- Apply as early as possible
- Keep digital copies of all documents
- Use a professional CV
- Ensure your academic records are updated
- Ask your ward councillor or tribal authority for residence confirmation early
- Continue applying for other bursaries while waiting for feedback
Students studying mining and engineering qualifications are especially encouraged to build strong mathematics, science, and technical problem-solving skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who can apply for the Ivanplats Bursary Programme?
Historically Disadvantaged South Africans from recognised Ivanplats mining communities who are studying at recognised South African universities.
- Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Students in their first year or further years of study may apply.
- Is the bursary only for technical courses?
No. Some non-technical qualifications relevant to mine operations may also qualify.
- Where is the Ivanplats mine located?
The Platreef project is located near Mokopane in Limpopo Province.
- How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted online through the official Ivanhoe Communities portal.
- What is the closing date?
22 May 2026.
- Will late applications be accepted?
No. Late applications will not be considered.
- Which qualifications are covered?
The bursary covers qualifications related to:
- Mining
- Engineering
- Mine Survey
- Environmental Studies
- Geology
- Services
CLOSING DATE: 22 MAY 2026
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- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Edupstairs is not affiliated with Ivanplats or Ivanhoe Mines. Applicants should always verify details on the official application platform before applying.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY