If you’re a South African student in mining, engineering, or applied sciences, this matters right now. Funding windows for 2026 are narrowing, and opportunities that cover everything are rare. The Tharisa Bursary 2026 stands out because it goes beyond tuition — but it also comes with real expectations.
A bursary that covers more than just fees
Many bursaries help with tuition and leave students scrambling for rent, books, or transport. Tharisa’s offering is different.
For successful applicants, the bursary covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed books
- Monthly allowance
Support begins from the first semester of 2026, which is crucial for students who might otherwise defer studies due to funding delays.
But this isn’t “free money.” Recipients are required to participate in vacation work at the mine each year. After graduation, students must join the company as graduate interns for at least one year.
For some, this structure is reassuring — it creates a clear path from classroom to workplace. For others, the obligation may feel restrictive, especially if career plans are still evolving.
Read more about What Happens If a Bursary Is Cancelled Mid-Year 2026
Who Tharisa is looking for
The bursary targets students pursuing specific, high-demand disciplines:
- Mining Engineering (REF: M-ENG003)
- Geology (REF: GEO-003)
- Analytical Chemistry (REF: A-C003)
- Electrical Engineering (REF: E-ENG003)
- Mechanical Engineering (REF: MEC-E003)
- Metallurgy / Chemical Engineering (REF: MET/CHE003)
- Mechatronics Engineering (REF: MECT-E003)
These fields align closely with mining operations and mineral processing — a reminder that bursaries are strategic investments, not broad scholarships.
Minimum requirements include:
- Matric certificate with at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Proof of registration in one of the listed disciplines
- Full academic record
This 60% threshold is realistic but still demanding. It’s high enough to filter candidates, yet accessible to many students from public schools.
ALSO Apply for Sorbet Academy Bursary Programme 2026
The conditions applicants often overlook
Every bursary has fine print. Ignoring it can waste time and effort.
Key points to note:
- Only South African citizens may apply
- Preference given to local community / labour sending areas
- Students with existing bursaries or sponsorships will not be considered
- Final selection considers Matric Maths & Science results
- All documents must be uploaded correctly
That third condition catches many students off guard. Even partial funding elsewhere may disqualify you.
There’s also an Employment Equity component. Preference will be given in line with designated opportunities, which reflects broader transformation policies across South Africa’s mining sector.
Why this bursary matters in the current climate
Higher education costs continue to rise. NSFAS supports many students, but not everyone qualifies, and funding gaps persist, especially for accommodation and living expenses.
Mining and engineering degrees are among the most expensive paths. They also require intensive lab work, field trips, and equipment.
A bursary that covers tuition and living costs can be the difference between:
- Completing a degree on time
- Taking on unsustainable debt
- Dropping out
However, students should weigh the work-back obligation carefully. A year of graduate internship is generally positive, but it does shape early career flexibility.
For students already interested in mining or resource extraction, this is often an advantage rather than a limitation.
Documentation: simple, but critical
Applications are frequently rejected for avoidable reasons.
Required documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter
Tharisa specifically instructs applicants to upload documents into the correct fields. Misplaced files can result in automatic disqualification.
This may sound minor, but it’s one of the most common mistakes across bursary applications.
Deadlines are closer than they seem
Closing Date: 18 February 2026
That date arrives quickly once the academic year begins. Students juggling registration, accommodation, and textbook purchases often miss early deadlines.
If you plan to apply, preparation should start immediately, especially by obtaining certified copies and academic records.
Apply for the Tharisa Bursary 2026
FAQs: Tharisa Bursary 2026
Does the Tharisa Bursary 2026 really cover everything?
Yes — tuition, accommodation, books, and a monthly allowance for successful applicants.
Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
No. Students benefiting from other sponsorships or bursaries will not be considered.
What marks do I need?
At least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, plus meeting academic progression requirements.
Is vacation work mandatory?
Yes. Recipients must participate in vacation work at the mine each year.
What happens after graduation?
You are required to join Tharisa as a graduate intern for at least one year.
Who gets preference?
South African citizens, with preference given to applicants from local communities/labour sending areas and aligned EE considerations.
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