Valterra Platinum has opened applications for its Bursary Programme 2027, funding South African students who want to build careers in the platinum mining sector. The bursary supports studies in Geotechnical Rock Engineering, Geomatics Mine Surveying and Mining Engineering, and successful recipients may go on to enter the Valterra Platinum Graduate Programme after they qualify. With full funding up to honours level and the chance of paid vacation work, this is a serious opportunity for numerate students. The closing date is 31 July 2026.
About the Programme
Valterra Platinum is a major player in South Africa’s platinum mining industry, with processing operations in Rustenburg (North West) and Polokwane (Limpopo), and mining operations in Thabazimbi, Burgersfort and Mokopane. The bursary programme is administered by the Tshikululu Trust and is aimed at students pursuing key mining-related qualifications.
Mining remains one of the cornerstones of the South African economy, and skilled engineers and surveyors are in constant demand. By funding students all the way through their studies and offering a clear path into a graduate programme, Valterra Platinum gives young people a route into a high-value technical career that can transform their families’ circumstances.
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees for the full duration of studies, up to honours level
- Accommodation in university residence, where applicable
- Meals, where applicable
- Paid vacation work opportunities to gain practical experience
- Exposure to real-world challenges at Valterra Platinum operations
- Ongoing mentorship to support academic and personal development
- A possible route into the Valterra Platinum Graduate Programme after graduation
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- South African students pursuing or planning to pursue a funded field of study
- A minimum overall average of 65% in your most recent results
- Study at a recognised, accredited South African university
- For Geotechnical Rock Engineering and Mining Engineering: final-year undergraduate students in 2026 who will be prospective honours students in 2027
- For Geomatics Mine Surveying: students currently in Matric in 2026 entering first year in 2027 (BSc Engineering Surveying or BEng Tech Mine Surveying), or final-year undergraduates in 2026 going on to honours in 2027
- Willingness to join the Valterra Platinum Graduate Programme and rotate across mines such as Amandelbult, Mogalakwena and Mototolo
- Preference is given to learners from communities in and around Valterra Platinum operations
RELATED: Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship 2027
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Full academic record or transcript for every year of study, including the current year
- Curriculum Vitae, including extra-curricular activities or volunteering
- Proof of address, such as a municipal account or a letter from a local tribal authority
- Proof of honours acceptance, once available
- The full name of your qualification exactly as written in your acceptance or registration documents
How to Apply
- Confirm which bursary category fits your qualification: Geotechnical Rock Engineering, Geomatics Mine Surveying or Mining Engineering.
- Prepare your certified ID, academic record, CV and proof of address.
- Apply online for the correct category using the official link below.
- Upload all required supporting documents with your application.
- For enquiries, contact the Tshikululu Help Desk on 011 544 0300 or valterraeducation@tshikululu.org.za, Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 16:00.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Valterra Platinum Bursary 2027 is 31 July 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
For many talented students, the only thing standing between them and a degree is money. A full bursary that covers tuition, accommodation and meals removes that barrier and lets students focus on their studies instead of worrying about fees. What makes the Valterra Platinum bursary especially valuable is what comes after the funding: paid vacation work, mentorship and a clear path into a graduate programme and a mining career. In a sector where engineers and surveyors are scarce and well paid, this bursary can lift a young person from a mining community into a professional career, and help build the skilled workforce South Africa’s economy depends on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Matric learners apply?
Yes, but only for the Geomatics Mine Surveying category, for learners currently in Matric in 2026 who will enter first year in 2027. The other categories are for final-year undergraduates going on to honours.
What marks do I need?
You need a minimum overall average of 65% in your most recent results.
Which fields are funded?
Geotechnical Rock Engineering, Geomatics Mine Surveying and Mining Engineering.
What happens after I graduate?
Successful recipients may enter the Valterra Platinum Graduate Programme and rotate across mines including Amandelbult, Mogalakwena and Mototolo.
Applying for this opportunity?
Make sure your application stands out with these free tools:
