Rio Tinto RBM Bursaries For 2026. The Rio Tinto RBM Bursaries for 2026 present a golden opportunity for South African students who aspire to pursue higher education in engineering, sciences, and related fields. Offered by Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), a subsidiary of Rio Tinto operating in KwaZulu-Natal, this bursary programme is designed to support talented individuals who show academic excellence and financial need.
By investing in young South Africans, Rio Tinto is not only shaping future leaders but also empowering communities with education, innovation, and professional growth.
Why Choose the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary?
The Rio Tinto RBM Bursary Programme is more than just financial assistance. It is a pathway that opens doors to industry exposure, career development, and mentorship opportunities. Successful candidates benefit from:
- Full or partial coverage of tuition fees
- Academic and career mentorship
- Opportunities for vacation work at RBM
- Potential for full-time employment after graduation
This makes the programme a launchpad for future engineers, scientists, and innovators who want to make a meaningful impact in South Africa and beyond.
Fields of Study Covered
Students applying for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursaries 2026 must be pursuing studies in one of the following areas:
| Category | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| Engineering (BSc or BEng) | Extractive Metallurgy, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
| Science (BSc) | Environmental Science, Geology |
These fields are directly aligned with Rio Tinto’s operations, ensuring that students gain qualifications relevant to the mining and resources sector.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be completing Grade 12 in 2025 with provisional university admission
- Maintain a minimum average of 65% in academic results
- Demonstrate a need for financial assistance
RBM gives preference to candidates from designated groups, particularly women and individuals with disabilities, to promote inclusivity and diversity in the mining and engineering sectors.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents when applying for the RBM Bursary Programme 2026. Ensure that all documents are certified copies not older than three months.
| Document Required | Details |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of ID | Applicant’s South African Identity Document |
| Comprehensive CV | Updated Curriculum Vitae highlighting achievements |
| Grade 12 report (2025 Mid-Year) | Latest certified academic results |
| Proof of university acceptance | Provisional acceptance from a recognized university |
| Parent/Guardian ID | Certified copy of parent/guardian ID |
| Proof of income | Recent payslip or affidavit for unemployed guardians |
| Motivation letter | Statement explaining field of study choice and career aspirations |
Note: When writing your motivation letter, focus on how your chosen field of study aligns with RBM’s work in engineering, mining, and environmental sustainability.
How to Apply
Students who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursaries for 2026 online.
Application Steps
- Prepare all the required documents listed above.
- Visit the official Rio Tinto careers page or the bursary application portal.
- Complete the online bursary application form.
- Upload your supporting documents in PDF format.
- Submit before the deadline to ensure consideration.
Why Rio Tinto RBM Supports Education
Rio Tinto and its South African subsidiary Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) play a major role in the mining industry, focusing on the extraction of mineral sands like ilmenite, rutile, and zircon. Beyond mining, the company is committed to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community development.
The bursary programme is a reflection of this commitment, ensuring that young South Africans are given the opportunity to pursue careers that directly contribute to the growth of the economy and sustainable resource management.
Conclusion
The Rio Tinto RBM Bursaries for 2026 stand as a remarkable opportunity for ambitious South African students looking to advance in engineering and science fields. By covering tuition costs and offering career pathways, this bursary ensures that financial challenges do not hinder academic and professional success.
