Applications are now open – Imerys Refractory Minerals, one of the world’s largest producers of aluminosilicate minerals, is inviting high-achieving South African students to apply for its comprehensive 2026 bursary programme.
Imerys Refractory Minerals South Africa (Pty) Ltd operates mines and processing plants in Limpopo and Mpumalanga and supplies critical raw materials to the steel, cement, foundry and glass industries across the globe. Through this bursary, the company aims to develop scarce and critical skills required for its operations while contributing to transformation and youth empowerment in the mining sector.
The Imerys bursary is aimed at students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a genuine interest in the mining and minerals-processing environment.
Fields of Study Supported in 2026
Imerys will consider applications for the following full-time undergraduate qualifications at recognised South African universities:
- Mining Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Chemical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Geology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science / Environmental Management
- Safety Management
- Human Resources Management
- Finance / Accounting
(NB: Preference will be given to disciplines directly linked to Imerys operations.)
Imerys Bursary Benefits
Successful candidates receive full-cost funding, including:
- 100% of university tuition and registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- On-campus or approved accommodation plus meal allowance
- Monthly cash allowance for personal expenses
- Laptop / tablet allowance (once-off)
- Paid vacation work at Imerys sites during university holidays
- Psychometric assessments and mentorship
- Guaranteed employment interview upon successful graduation
Eligibility Requirements for the Imerys Refractory Bursary
Applicants must satisfy ALL of the following criteria:
South African citizen
Currently in Matric (2025) or have completed Matric
Achieved a minimum overall average of 70% in Matric/Grade 12
Minimum 70% for Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) and Physical Sciences
Already accepted or provisionally accepted to study one of the listed qualifications in 2026
Demonstrated financial need (combined household income preferably below R600 000 per annum)
Strong leadership potential and community involvement will be advantageous
How to Apply for the Imerys Refractory Minerals Bursary 2026
Applications are submitted directly via the official Imerys bursary portal (no postal or hand-delivered applications accepted).
Visit https://imerys.gradu8.co.za or click the link on the Imerys South Africa careers page
Register / log in and complete the online application form
Upload clear certified copies of the following documents (all compulsory):
ID document
Latest academic results (Matric June or final results / full tertiary transcript)
Proof of provisional university acceptance or registration for 2026
Detailed CV
Motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary (max 1 page)
Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit if unemployed, SASSA letters, etc.)
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Closing Date
31 October 2025
(Applications open 1 July 2025 – apply early as shortlisting begins from August)
Contact Information
For queries only:
Email: bursaries.sa@imerys.com
Tel: 013 767 1000 (Annesley Andalusite Mine)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 30 November 2025. If you have not received feedback by 15 December 2025, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Take the first step toward a rewarding career in the global minerals industry — apply for the Imerys Refractory Minerals Bursary today!