The Exxaro Bursary is offered by Exxaro Resources Limited – a minerals and coal mining company listed with the JSE. Previously called Kumba Resources, Exxaro has global operations in Africa, Europe, Australia and Asia.
Since its unbundling in 2006, Exxaro has continued to demonstrate its commitment to the development of countries in which it does business. In South Africa, the company has its head office located in Pretoria.
What Is The Exxaro Bursary?
The Exxaro Bursary is a financial aid scheme which provides funding for engineering and mining careers. It caters for expenses incurred by its bursary recipients during the period of their studies. The bursary programme covers tuition, books, accommodation and may include some allowances.
Study Fields Covered by the Exxaro Bursary
In order for your 2026 academic year application for funding to be successful, you must be pursuing one of these qualifications:
- Civil Engineering (BEng / BSc)
- Data Sciences (BTech / BDatSci / BComp specialising in DataScience)
- Electrical Engineering (BEng / BSc)
- Geology (BSc)
- Industrial Engineering (BEng / BSc)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng)
- Metallurgical Engineering / Chemical Engineering (BEng / BSc)
- Mine Surveying (BEng / BSc)
- Mining Engineering (BEng / BSc
Eligibility Requirements & Year of Study for 2026
Applicants must meet all the general criteria below and be registered for the correct year of study in one of the approved fields:
General Criteria
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- Full-time students only
- Studying at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution
Field-Specific Year Requirements
- Civil Engineering (BEng / BSc) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Data Sciences (BTech / BDatSci / BComp specialising in Data Science) – 3rd year in 2026
- Electrical Engineering (BEng / BSc) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Geology (BSc) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Industrial Engineering (BEng / BSc) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Metallurgical or Chemical Engineering (BEng / BSc) – 2nd or 4th year in 2026
- Mine Surveying (BEng / BSc) – 3rd year or Honours in 2026
- Mining Engineering (BEng / BSc) – 2nd or 4th/final year in 2026
Value of the Exxaro Bursary & Career Benefits (2026)
Exxaro offers one of the most generous and career-focused bursaries in South Africa. Successful students receive 100% funding with no repayment required (provided you meet academic and vacation-work obligations).
Financial Coverage – Everything is paid for:
- Full registration and tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- University-approved accommodation (residence or private)
- Meals (or meal allowance)
- Laptop + monthly data allowance
- Monthly personal/living allowance
- Travel costs (home ↔ university, where applicable)
- Comprehensive wellness and counselling support
Career-Boosting Extras (this is what makes Exxaro stand out):
- Paid vacation work/internships every December/January at Exxaro mines or offices – real hands-on experience and extra income
- One-on-one mentorship from senior Exxaro engineers, geologists, and data scientists
- Academic support and termly progress reviews to keep you on track
- Guaranteed interview and preferential placement in Exxaro’s Professional-in-Training (PIT) Programme after graduation
- High likelihood of permanent employment – many bursary holders are absorbed straight into Exxaro’s operations, including its growing renewable-energy and digital-transformation projects
In short: this isn’t just a bursary – it’s a direct pipeline into a rewarding career at one of Africa’s leading mining and energy companies.
Application Process for the Exxaro Bursary Programme 2026
Spots fill fast—apply ASAP to secure your spot!
- Head to the official portal: Apply Here – Ref: EXX251104-3
- Enter reference EXX251104-3 and fill all sections
- In “How did you hear about us?”, enter Grads24.co.za
- Upload docs (certified, not older than 3 months)
Required Documents:
- Updated CV
- ID/permanent residence permit
- Matric certificate
- Academic transcripts/record (institution letterhead)
- Proof of 2026 registration/acceptance
- Motivational letter (your mining/eng career goals & Exxaro fit)
Please Note:
- South African citizens/permanent residents only
- Incomplete/late apps auto-disqualified—review twice
- Maintain academics (e.g., min averages, termly reports) + possible post-grad work-back at Exxaro
Closing Date
The closing date for submissions is 30 November 2025. Apply now before the closing date. Late submissions will result in your disqualification.
*Please note:
- South African citizens and permanent residents may apply for this bursary.
- Ensure all required documents are included with your application. Incomplete submissions will result in disqualification.
- Late applications will not be considered, so submit your application before the closing date.
This article was last updated in November 2025.
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