Rio Tinto’s South African operation, Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), is inviting applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme for Non-Core Disciplines in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The bursary programme is aimed at South African students who are completing Grade 12 in 2026 and planning to pursue university studies in selected fields. The programme supports students with strong academic potential who require financial assistance to further their education. Eligible applicants can apply across a range of disciplines, including engineering, computer science, health sciences, commerce, law, humanities and social sciences. Applications close on 24 October 2026. Fields of Study Covered The RBM 2027 Bursary Programme is available to eligible students intending to study in the following disciplines: Engineering Civil Engineering Land Surveying Industrial Engineering Sciences Computer Science Data Science Social Sciences Community Development Criminology Psychology Humanities Journalism Media and Communication Health Sciences Pharmacy Nursing Medicine Management Sciences Economics Commerce Finance Other Fields Law Safety Management Applicants should ensure that their intended qualification falls within one of the listed fields of study. Eligibility Requirements To qualify for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements: Be a South African citizen. Be completing Grade 12 in 2026. Maintain a minimum average year mark of 65%. Qualify for financial assistance. Provide proof of provisional acceptance from a university. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will receive bursary funding. Applicants should submit all the required documents and ensure that their information is accurate. Required Application Documents Applicants must prepare the following documents before submitting their applications: A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV). A certified copy of their South African ID, certified within the last three months. A certified copy of their 2026 Grade 12 midyear report. Proof of provisional acceptance from a university. A certified copy of the parent or guardian's ID. Proof of income or a payslip from the parent or guardian. A motivation letter explaining the chosen field of study. Certified proof of residence or domicile address. Important: All documents must be clear and legible. RBM states that applications submitted without the required documents may be unsuccessful. Check that every attachment is included before submitting your application. Why Apply for the RBM Bursary? Richards Bay Minerals is a major producer of mineral sands in South Africa and operates as part of the global Rio Tinto group. Its operations produce minerals such as ilmenite, rutile and zircon, which are used in various industries and everyday products. The RBM bursary programme aims to invest in students with the potential to become future professionals, innovators and leaders. It offers an opportunity for eligible learners who require financial assistance to pursue their university studies in selected disciplines. Preference and Diversity RBM indicates that it will prioritise suitably qualified applicants from designated groups where under-representation exists. This includes women and people with disabilities. Applicants from all eligible backgrounds are encouraged to review the requirements and submit complete applications. How to Apply Interested candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date. To apply, click the “Apply Now” button on this page. You will be redirected to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application directly to the employer. You can also access the official application portal using the link below: Closing Date 24 October 2026 Selection is expected to commence shortly after the closing date. Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful. Ensure that you submit your application and all supporting documents before the deadline.