The 2026 Marula Bursary presents a vital funding opportunity for students in Limpopo. If you’re planning to study engineering, geology, or HR at a top South African university, this bursary could be your academic stepping stone.
- About the Marula Mine and Implats
- What is the 2026 Marula Bursary?
- Fields of Study Covered by the Marula Bursary
- Expenses Covered by the Marula Bursary
- Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria for the 2026 Marula Bursary
- Application Process: How to Apply for the Marula Bursary
- What Happens After You Apply?
- Key Dates and Deadlines
- Why You Should Apply for the Marula Bursary
- Contact Details for Queries
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Your Future Starts Here
Backed by Implats and Marula Mine, this bursary not only covers your university costs but also supports you through mentorship and access to tools like a personal computer.
About the Marula Mine and Implats
Marula Mine is located on the eastern limb of the Bushveld Complex in Limpopo. It is 73% owned by Implats, one of the world’s leading platinum producers.
Implats operates across Southern Africa, including South Africa and Zimbabwe, with over 53,000 employees and a revenue exceeding R26.1 billion. The company contributes approximately 22% of the global primary platinum supply.
Its vision is to be the world’s best platinum group metals producer – a goal supported by investment in education through initiatives like the Marula Bursary.
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What is the 2026 Marula Bursary?
The 2026 Marula Bursary funds Limpopo-based students from communities near Marula Mine. It supports those pursuing degrees in specific fields at recognised South African universities.
More than just a bursary, it’s a gateway to future employment and professional growth, especially in mining and related sectors.
Fields of Study Covered by the Marula Bursary
Students must pursue qualifications in one of these high-demand fields:
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Geology
- Human Resources
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Mining Survey
Each of these careers aligns with Implats’ operational needs, ensuring relevance and job-readiness for bursary recipients.
Expenses Covered by the Marula Bursary
The 2026 Marula Bursary covers a comprehensive range of university-related expenses:
- Registration and tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation
- Daily meals
- A monthly cash allowance
- A personal computer for second-year students
- Mentorship and academic support
This bursary reduces financial stress and allows students to focus fully on their studies.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria for the 2026 Marula Bursary
To qualify, applicants must meet strict entry criteria. If you don’t meet all the requirements, your application may be disqualified.
Basic Criteria:
Reside in a local community in Limpopo province
Matric certificate with university exemption pass
Accepted or applying to one of the following universities:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the North West (NWU – Potchefstroom)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
Academic Requirements:
- Minimum C symbol for English, Maths, and Physical Science in Matric
- If already at university: Minimum 60% average in all subjects
Personal Requirements:
- Valid medical certificate or medically fit
- Leadership potential and teamwork skills
- Decision-making and problem-solving ability
- Motivation and communication strength
Preference is given to Employment Equity candidates, in line with the Employment Equity Act.
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Application Process: How to Apply for the Marula Bursary
There’s no official application form. To apply, hand-deliver the following documents to the Marula Stakeholder Department / Community Desk:
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your full academic record (if already studying)
- Proof of university acceptance (if available)
- Proof of residence
Do not submit original documents. Only submit clear, certified copies.
What Happens After You Apply?
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview. If you haven’t received feedback within 30 days of the closing date, your application was unsuccessful.
Successful interviewees will then undergo a psychometric assessment. This step requires you to first submit your university acceptance letter.
This multi-step process ensures that the final bursary recipients are academically capable and aligned with Implats’ values.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Application closing date: 9 January 2026
- Applications after this date will not be accepted. Submit early to avoid disappointment.
Why You Should Apply for the Marula Bursary
The Marula Bursary goes beyond financial support. It opens doors to:
- Networking with industry professionals
- On-the-job mentorship
- A potential career pipeline within Implats
According to Stats SA, Limpopo’s youth unemployment rate is over 60%. This bursary is a critical intervention to help young people access careers in one of South Africa’s key sectors: mining.
Contact Details for Queries
Still have questions? Contact Marula directly:
Email: Marula.services@implats.co.za
Please do not contact Marula after the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I’m currently in Matric or not yet accepted at university?
Yes, you can apply while still completing Matric or waiting for university acceptance. However, to move on to the psychometric testing phase, you must submit your official university admission letter to the Marula Bursary administrators.
Is the 2026 Marula Bursary renewable each year?
Yes. The bursary is typically renewed annually based on your academic performance and continued eligibility. You must maintain a minimum 60% average and adhere to the bursary terms, including any community or work commitments post-graduation.
Is the Marula Bursary only for engineering students?
No. While many bursary recipients pursue engineering qualifications, the 2026 Marula Bursary also funds students studying Geology and Human Resources. These fields are essential to the operational needs of Marula Mine and the broader Implats Group.
Can students from other provinces apply for the 2026 Marula Bursary?
Unfortunately, no. The bursary is exclusively available to students living in communities near the Marula Platinum Mine in Limpopo. This is part of Implats’ commitment to uplifting local talent through targeted bursary support.
What happens after I submit my Marula Bursary application?
If shortlisted, you will be contacted for a formal interview. Successful candidates will then complete a psychometric assessment, which evaluates your problem-solving ability, logic, and communication skills. Final selection depends on both academic merit and assessment performance.
Your Future Starts Here
The 2026 Marula Bursary is a powerful opportunity for academically strong and driven students from Limpopo. If you meet the criteria, apply now to secure funding and potentially launch your career with one of South Africa’s most respected mining companies.
Don’t miss the deadline: 9 January 2026.