DRDGOLD Bursary South Africa For 2026. Are you a passionate South African student looking to pursue a career in engineering, sciences, or finance but concerned about funding your studies? The DRDGOLD Bursary South Africa for 2026 could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. This bursary offers full or partial funding to deserving undergraduate students, especially those residing in Gauteng. It supports a range of study fields and even offers hands-on industry exposure through vacation work.
Let’s dive into all the essential details you need to know to apply successfully and secure your future.
About DRDGOLD Limited
Founded in 1895, DRDGOLD Limited (formerly Durban Roodepoort Deep Limited) is a well-established South African gold producer and a world leader in recovering metal from surface tailings. The company operates through its key subsidiaries – Ergo Mining Proprietary Limited (Ergo) and Far West Gold Recoveries Proprietary Limited (FWGR).
DRDGOLD is dual-listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), reflecting its global presence. The company’s major shareholders include:
| Shareholder Name | Type |
|---|---|
| Sibanye Stillwater Ltd. | Majority Shareholder |
| Investec Value Fund | Institutional Investor |
| Ergo Mining Operations (Pty) Ltd. | Subsidiary |
| DRDSA Empowerment Trust | Trust |
| Clearstream Banking SA Luxembourg | Financial Institution |
| Van Eck Associates Corporation | Investment Management Firm |
| KBC Securities N.V Clients | Financial Clients |
| Citi Client Nominees No 8 | Nominee Account |
This well-capitalized and community-oriented company believes in investing in the next generation of professionals. Through the DRDGOLD Bursary Programme, it continues to support youth development, especially in technical and operational fields.
Fields Covered by the DRDGOLD Bursary
The DRDGOLD Bursary 2026 is aimed at students pursuing undergraduate qualifications in critical skill areas. These fields include:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy
- Environmental Sciences
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Information Technology (IT)
- Safety Management
These study areas align with the operational needs of DRDGOLD and its subsidiaries, ensuring bursary recipients can grow into future roles within the company.
Vacation Work Opportunity
One of the standout features of this bursary is the inclusion of vacation work during university holidays. Selected students will gain real-world experience at DRDGOLD operational sites, such as Ergo or FWGR. This exposure is not only educational but also enhances future employability.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Applicants
To apply for the DRDGOLD Bursary South Africa for 2026, you must meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must reside within Gauteng province |
| Preferred Regions | City of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Merafong |
| Level of Study | Must be entering 1st or 2nd year in 2026 |
| Institution | Must study at a recognized South African tertiary |
| Academic Merit | Strong academic performance is preferred |
| Field of Study | Must be in one of the listed fields above |
Note: Applicants who do not meet the residency or academic requirements will not be considered.
Documents Required for Application
If you meet the eligibility criteria, ensure that you compile and submit the following compulsory documents:
All Applicants:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of residential address in Gauteng
- A short Curriculum Vitae (CV)
For 1st-Year Applicants
- Certified copy of Matric results or Grade 11 final results
- Provisional acceptance letter from a tertiary institution (on official letterhead)
For 2nd-Year Applicants
- Full 2025 academic record from a tertiary institution (on official letterhead)
Important Note: Failure to submit any of the above documents will result in your application being disregarded.
How to Apply for the DRDGOLD Bursary 2026
There is no physical or online application form for this bursary. Instead, all required documents must be submitted via email.
Submission Email Address:
Email Subject Line
csharpCopyEditref: BUR021
Make sure your documents are clear, legible, and complete. Sending incomplete applications will disqualify you from the selection process.
Application Deadline
- Closing Date: September 30, 2025
Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances. It’s recommended to submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Selection and Communication
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further communication. If you do not receive any feedback within 4 weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Shortlisted students may be asked to attend interviews or additional assessments. Keep your contact details updated and check your email regularly.
Why Apply for the DRDGOLD Bursary?
The DRDGOLD Bursary South Africa for 2026 stands out because it offers more than just financial aid. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
Financial Support
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Possible accommodation and living allowance (depending on need)
Real-World Work Experience
- Practical exposure at operational sites
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
Networking and Career Growth
- Opportunity to build professional relationships
- Preferred consideration for internships or future employment
Contact Details for Enquiries
For any further information or queries about the DRDGOLD Bursary, contact the company directly at:
DRDGOLD Head Office
Tel: 011 470 2600
FAQs About DRDGOLD Bursary
What does the DRDGOLD Bursary cover?
The bursary typically covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, and may also include accommodation and living expenses, depending on the financial needs of the student.
Can I apply if I don’t live in Gauteng?
Unfortunately, no. The bursary is specifically open to students residing within the Gauteng province, with preference given to those from Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Merafong.
Is there a specific application form for the bursary?
No formal application form is required. You only need to submit the required documents via email to apply for the DRDGOLD Bursary 2026.
Conclusion
If you are a dedicated and hardworking student residing in Gauteng with a passion for science, engineering, or business-related fields, the DRDGOLD Bursary South Africa for 2026 is a golden opportunity. Not only does it support your studies, but it also prepares you for a successful career in the mining and resources sector. Make sure to prepare your documents early, meet the eligibility requirements, and submit your application before the September 30, 2025 deadline.
