Implats Refineries
Implats Refineries Bursary 2027: Fully Funded, Closes 31 August
Role Overview
Impala Platinum (Implats) has opened applications for its Refineries Tertiary Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. The Implats Refineries bursary is aimed at South African Matric learners who want to study engineering or chemistry at university and build a career in the mining and metals sector. Funding covers tuition, accommodation and study materials, and applications close on 31 August 2026.
Implats is one of the world’s leading producers of platinum group metals, employing tens of thousands of people across its operations in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Its Refineries complex in Springs, Gauteng, is where mined material is processed into final refined metals such as platinum, palladium and rhodium that are exported around the world for use in vehicles, electronics and green hydrogen technology.
The Refineries Tertiary Bursary Programme is part of the company’s long-running investment in technical skills. Implats uses the bursary to develop the chemical, metallurgical, electrical and mechanical engineers it will need in the years ahead, and bursars gain exposure to a real refinery environment through vacation work while they study. For young South Africans, it is a funded pathway into one of the country’s most important export industries.
Tuition fees for your approved degree
Paid vacation work at the Springs refineries during December and January holidays
Skills development support and exposure to a leading industrial employer
You must be a South African citizen
You must be a Matric learner or have completed Matric with results that qualify you for degree study
You must plan to study one of the following at university: Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Electrical Engineering (heavy current preferred), Mechanical Engineering or Chemistry
You need at least 60% (Level 5) for Mathematics
You need at least 60% (Level 5) for Physical Science
You need at least 60% (Level 5) for English
Certified copy of your South African ID document
Grade 11 final results and your latest Grade 12 results
Conditional or firm university acceptance letter, if available
Matric certificate, if you have already completed school
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Prepare certified copies of all your documents before you start
Go to the official Implats careers application page for the Refineries Tertiary Bursary Programme
Complete the online application form with your personal, school and subject details
Upload your supporting documents
Submit before the closing date and keep your confirmation
Start your application here: Apply at Implats
The closing date for the Implats Refineries Bursary 2027 is 31 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Mining remains one of South Africa’s biggest employers and foreign exchange earners, and platinum group metals are central to the global shift towards cleaner energy. Yet thousands of academically strong learners never study engineering because their families cannot afford university.
A full company bursary like this one solves that problem and adds something a loan never can: a direct relationship with a major employer, paid holiday work experience, and a strong chance of employment after graduation. If you are finishing Matric with solid marks in Mathematics and Physical Science, an engineering bursary from a company like Implats is one of the smartest applications you can submit this year.
No. The bursary targets Matric learners and school leavers heading to university, so no work experience is needed.
Yes. The bursary is open to South African citizens nationwide, although the vacation work component takes place at the refineries in Springs, Gauteng.
The bursary covers tuition, accommodation and study materials. Any additional allowances are confirmed during the application process.
Bursars gain vacation work exposure and skills development support, which positions them strongly for graduate roles at Implats. Specific work-back conditions are confirmed during the application process.
Make sure your application stands out with these free tools:
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
South African citizenship and acceptance or current enrolment at a recognised South African tertiary institution. A strong academic record meeting the minimum requirements and demonstrated financial need where applicable.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Prepare certified copies of all your documents before you start Go to the official Implats careers application page for the Refineries Tertiary Bursary Programme Complete the online application form with your personal, school and subject details Upload your supporting documents Submit before the closing date and keep your confirmation Start your application here: Apply at Implats
About Implats Refineries
This bursary is offered by Implats Refineries, based in Nationwide.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Implats Refineries can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 31 August 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 31 August 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
Similar Opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on Implats Refineries's careers portal.
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