IVANPLATS Bursary 2027

About the Provider

IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd is a South African mining company and a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, a Canadian-listed exploration and development group with a global footprint across Africa. The company operates in Limpopo province near Mokopane, where it is developing one of the largest precious-metals discoveries in South Africa: the Platreef project. This deposit is rich in palladium, rhodium, platinum, nickel, copper and gold, and is being developed using the latest underground mining technology with a strong focus on safety, mechanisation and long-term sustainability.

Ivanhoe Mines, the parent company, is recognised internationally for its work on the Kamoa-Kakula copper joint venture in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in addition to its South African interests. Together with IVANPLATS, the broader group is committed to developing world-class operations that benefit host communities, create local employment, and grow skills within the South African mining sector. The Platreef project in particular is described by the company as a "mine of the future" because of its scale, modern design and emphasis on responsible resource extraction.

As part of its commitment to building human capital and uplifting the communities where it operates, IVANPLATS runs a structured bursary programme aimed at South African students from local communities surrounding the Mokopane mine. The programme reflects the company's belief that long-term mining success depends not only on capital and technology, but also on the people who study, work in and lead the industry. By funding tertiary studies, IVANPLATS is investing in the next generation of mining engineers, geologists, environmental specialists and business professionals who will help shape the South African mining industry over the coming decades.

The company places particular emphasis on supporting Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs), in line with national transformation goals and the Mining Charter. Its bursary, recruitment and skills development initiatives all form part of a wider effort to diversify the workforce, develop scarce skills, and ensure that local communities benefit directly from the mineral wealth being extracted in their region. For learners in Limpopo who are committed and ambitious, this programme is one of the most direct ways to access fully funded studies at a recognised South African university while also opening a clear pathway into the mining industry.

## About the Provider IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd is a South African mining company and a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, a Canadian-listed exploration and development group with a global footprint across Africa. The company operates in Limpopo province near Mokopane, where it is developing one of the largest precious-metals discoveries in South Africa: the Platreef project. This deposit is rich in palladium, rhodium, platinum, nickel, copper and gold, and is being developed using the latest underground mining technology with a strong focus on safety, mechanisation and long-term sustainability. Ivanhoe Mines, the parent company, is recognised internationally for its work on the Kamoa-Kakula copper joint venture in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in addition to its South African interests. Together with IVANPLATS, the broader group is committed to developing world-class operations that benefit host communities, create local employment, and grow skills within the South African mining sector. The Platreef project in particular is described by the company as a "mine of the future" because of its scale, modern design and emphasis on responsible resource extraction. As part of its commitment to building human capital and uplifting the communities where it operates, IVANPLATS runs a structured bursary programme aimed at South African students from local communities surrounding the Mokopane mine. The programme reflects the company's belief that long-term mining success depends not only on capital and technology, but also on the people who study, work in and lead the industry. By funding tertiary studies, IVANPLATS is investing in the next generation of mining engineers, geologists, environmental specialists and business professionals who will help shape the South African mining industry over the coming decades. The company places particular emphasis on supporting Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs), in line with national transformation goals and the Mining Charter. Its bursary, recruitment and skills development initiatives all form part of a wider effort to diversify the workforce, develop scarce skills, and ensure that local communities benefit directly from the mineral wealth being extracted in their region. For learners in Limpopo who are committed and ambitious, this programme is one of the most direct ways to access fully funded studies at a recognised South African university while also opening a clear pathway into the mining industry.

About the Program

The IVANPLATS Bursary is offered to South African students for the 2027 academic year and is targeted at learners from communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo. Unlike many corporate bursaries that fund only mining-specific degrees, this programme is broader: it covers a range of technical and operational fields that the mining industry depends on, allowing applicants from different academic interests to find a suitable funded pathway.

Funding is offered for a maximum of four years, which is enough to complete a typical undergraduate qualification at a recognised and accredited South African university. Students are funded from their first year of study or higher, meaning learners who are already enrolled at university can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The bursary is awarded on a competitive basis, and the company evaluates not only academic performance but also a candidate's commitment to building a long-term career in the mining sector.

The programme is open to studies in Engineering, Environmental sciences, Geology, Mine Survey and Mining. These disciplines align directly with the technical needs of the Platreef project and the wider mining group, ensuring that bursars can transition smoothly into work-integrated learning, vacation work and eventual employment. Students pursuing mining-related qualifications must also be willing to work both underground and on the surface across mining operations, and must pass a relevant medical fitness examination as part of the selection process.

IVANPLATS describes the bursary as part of its commitment to developing future industry leaders, with a particular focus on Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs). Successful candidates may be invited to participate in vacation work programmes during their studies, which gives them practical exposure to a working mine while their fees and study costs are covered by the company. This combination of academic funding and on-site experience is intended to produce graduates who are workplace-ready by the time they complete their qualifications.

Applicants will be informed of the outcome within 14 days after the closing date. If you do not hear back within this time, your application can be considered unsuccessful, and the company encourages students to continue applying for other opportunities rather than waiting for a response.

## About the Program The IVANPLATS Bursary is offered to South African students for the 2027 academic year and is targeted at learners from communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo. Unlike many corporate bursaries that fund only mining-specific degrees, this programme is broader: it covers a range of technical and operational fields that the mining industry depends on, allowing applicants from different academic interests to find a suitable funded pathway. Funding is offered for a maximum of four years, which is enough to complete a typical undergraduate qualification at a recognised and accredited South African university. Students are funded from their first year of study or higher, meaning learners who are already enrolled at university can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The bursary is awarded on a competitive basis, and the company evaluates not only academic performance but also a candidate's commitment to building a long-term career in the mining sector. The programme is open to studies in **Engineering**, **Environmental** sciences, **Geology**, **Mine Survey** and **Mining**. These disciplines align directly with the technical needs of the Platreef project and the wider mining group, ensuring that bursars can transition smoothly into work-integrated learning, vacation work and eventual employment. Students pursuing mining-related qualifications must also be willing to work both underground and on the surface across mining operations, and must pass a relevant medical fitness examination as part of the selection process. IVANPLATS describes the bursary as part of its commitment to developing future industry leaders, with a particular focus on Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs). Successful candidates may be invited to participate in vacation work programmes during their studies, which gives them practical exposure to a working mine while their fees and study costs are covered by the company. This combination of academic funding and on-site experience is intended to produce graduates who are workplace-ready by the time they complete their qualifications. Applicants will be informed of the outcome within 14 days after the closing date. If you do not hear back within this time, your application can be considered unsuccessful, and the company encourages students to continue applying for other opportunities rather than waiting for a response.

Bursary Benefits

The IVANPLATS Bursary offers a meaningful package for students from local communities surrounding the mine. Specific benefits include:

Funding for up to 4 years of undergraduate study, which is enough to cover a standard South African degree or diploma in the listed fields.
Financial support to cover the costs of pursuing a qualification at a recognised and accredited South African university.
Access to a pipeline into the South African mining industry, including future employment and skills development opportunities at IVANPLATS and the broader Ivanhoe Mines group.
Practical work exposure for mining-related qualifications, including underground and surface operations at one of the most modern platinum-group metal projects in the country.
Mentorship and guidance from a global mining group with operations in South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond, giving bursars a wider professional network.
Strong alignment with national transformation goals, with preference given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) from communities near the Mokopane mine.

The specific value of the bursary and the exact list of items covered (such as tuition, registration, accommodation or allowances) is determined by the company on a case-by-case basis. Students should plan their studies on the assumption that the bursary will support a four-year undergraduate qualification at an accredited South African institution.

## Bursary Benefits The IVANPLATS Bursary offers a meaningful package for students from local communities surrounding the mine. Specific benefits include: - **Funding for up to 4 years** of undergraduate study, which is enough to cover a standard South African degree or diploma in the listed fields. - Financial support to cover the costs of pursuing a qualification at a recognised and accredited South African university. - Access to a pipeline into the South African mining industry, including future employment and skills development opportunities at IVANPLATS and the broader Ivanhoe Mines group. - Practical work exposure for mining-related qualifications, including underground and surface operations at one of the most modern platinum-group metal projects in the country. - Mentorship and guidance from a global mining group with operations in South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond, giving bursars a wider professional network. - Strong alignment with national transformation goals, with preference given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) from communities near the Mokopane mine. The specific value of the bursary and the exact list of items covered (such as tuition, registration, accommodation or allowances) is determined by the company on a case-by-case basis. Students should plan their studies on the assumption that the bursary will support a four-year undergraduate qualification at an accredited South African institution.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the IVANPLATS Bursary you must meet every one of the following requirements. Missing even one will result in your application being disqualified.

You must be a South African citizen.
You must reside within the local communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo province.
You must be a Historically Disadvantaged South African (HDSA), in line with national transformation criteria.
You must have completed Matric.
You must be studying or intending to study towards an undergraduate qualification in one of the funded fields: Engineering, Environmental, Geology, Mine Survey or Mining.
You must be in your 1st year of study or higher, meaning new entrants and current university students may both apply.
You must be studying at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa.
You must pass the relevant medical fitness examination required for mining studies.
For mining-related qualifications, you must be prepared to work underground and on the surface in all mining operations.

Applicants are funded for a maximum of four years and are expected to maintain academic progress throughout the bursary period. The company reserves the right to make final decisions based on academic merit, suitability and available funding.

## Eligibility Criteria To qualify for the IVANPLATS Bursary you must meet every one of the following requirements. Missing even one will result in your application being disqualified. - You must be a **South African citizen**. - You must reside within the local communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in **Limpopo province**. - You must be a **Historically Disadvantaged South African (HDSA)**, in line with national transformation criteria. - You must have completed Matric. - You must be studying or intending to study towards an undergraduate qualification in one of the funded fields: Engineering, Environmental, Geology, Mine Survey or Mining. - You must be in your **1st year of study or higher**, meaning new entrants and current university students may both apply. - You must be studying at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa. - You must pass the relevant medical fitness examination required for mining studies. - For mining-related qualifications, you must be prepared to work underground and on the surface in all mining operations. Applicants are funded for a maximum of four years and are expected to maintain academic progress throughout the bursary period. The company reserves the right to make final decisions based on academic merit, suitability and available funding.

Required Documents

Submit clear, certified copies of all the documents listed below with your online application. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected, so check your file before you upload.

Certified copy of your South African ID document.
Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised South African university.
Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
Certified copy of your full academic record or transcripts (on the institution's letterhead).
Proof of residence: a letter from the Tribal Authority or your ward councillor confirming that you live in a community surrounding the Ivanplats mine.
An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Make sure that all certifications are recent (typically not older than three months) and that scanned copies are clear and legible.

## Required Documents Submit clear, certified copies of all the documents listed below with your online application. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected, so check your file before you upload. - Certified copy of your South African ID document. - Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised South African university. - Certified copy of your Matric certificate. - Certified copy of your full academic record or transcripts (on the institution's letterhead). - Proof of residence: a letter from the Tribal Authority or your ward councillor confirming that you live in a community surrounding the Ivanplats mine. - An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV). Make sure that all certifications are recent (typically not older than three months) and that scanned copies are clear and legible.

How to Apply

Confirm that you meet every eligibility requirement, including residency in a community near the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo and HDSA status.
Visit the official IVANPLATS careers portal and create an account using a working email address that you check regularly.
After registering, log in and locate the bursary opportunity using the reference IVP-HRD-2609.
Complete the online application form in full, taking care to enter your personal, academic and contact details accurately.
Prepare digital copies of all the required supporting documents listed above before you start uploading.
Upload your certified ID, Matric certificate, academic transcripts, proof of registration, proof of residence and CV.
Review your application carefully before submission. Once submitted, applications cannot usually be edited.
Submit your application before the closing date of 22 May 2026 at 23:59. Late applications will not be accepted.
If you have not received feedback within 14 days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful and continue applying for other opportunities.

## How to Apply 1. Confirm that you meet every eligibility requirement, including residency in a community near the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo and HDSA status. 2. Visit the official IVANPLATS careers portal and create an account using a working email address that you check regularly. 3. After registering, log in and locate the bursary opportunity using the reference **IVP-HRD-2609**. 4. Complete the online application form in full, taking care to enter your personal, academic and contact details accurately. 5. Prepare digital copies of all the required supporting documents listed above before you start uploading. 6. Upload your certified ID, Matric certificate, academic transcripts, proof of registration, proof of residence and CV. 7. Review your application carefully before submission. Once submitted, applications cannot usually be edited. 8. Submit your application before the **closing date of 22 May 2026 at 23:59**. Late applications will not be accepted. 9. If you have not received feedback within 14 days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful and continue applying for other opportunities.

Tips for Success

Mining bursaries are among the most competitive in South Africa, so a strong, well-prepared application is essential. The following tips will help you stand out:

Start early. Begin gathering your certified ID, Matric certificate, academic transcripts and proof of residence at least two to three weeks before the deadline. Certifications older than three months are often rejected.
Get a clean proof of residence. Because IVANPLATS prioritises learners from communities surrounding the Mokopane mine, a clear letter from your Tribal Authority or ward councillor is critical. Make sure it includes the official stamp, contact details and a date of issue.
Tailor your CV to mining and engineering. Highlight Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Geography, Life Sciences and any technical extramural activities. Even short experiences such as science fairs, robotics clubs or community projects show technical curiosity.
Prepare for the medical examination. If you are aiming for a mining qualification, you will need to be medically fit to work underground. Stay healthy, manage chronic conditions and be honest in any medical questionnaires.
Show commitment to the local community. In your application, briefly explain how you plan to use your qualification to contribute to your community in Limpopo. Bursary providers value students who plan to give back.
Use a professional email address. A simple firstname.surname style works far better than nicknames. Check that your email and phone details are correct so the company can contact you within the 14-day feedback window.
Apply well before the closing time of 23:59 on 22 May 2026. Last-minute uploads often fail when servers are busy.
Apply for multiple bursaries. Even with a strong profile, mining bursaries are highly competitive. Submitting applications to several providers significantly increases your chances of receiving funding.
Keep copies of everything you submit. Save a folder on your phone or laptop with all uploaded documents, including the final submission confirmation. This makes follow-up much easier.

## Tips for Success Mining bursaries are among the most competitive in South Africa, so a strong, well-prepared application is essential. The following tips will help you stand out: - **Start early.** Begin gathering your certified ID, Matric certificate, academic transcripts and proof of residence at least two to three weeks before the deadline. Certifications older than three months are often rejected. - **Get a clean proof of residence.** Because IVANPLATS prioritises learners from communities surrounding the Mokopane mine, a clear letter from your Tribal Authority or ward councillor is critical. Make sure it includes the official stamp, contact details and a date of issue. - **Tailor your CV to mining and engineering.** Highlight Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Geography, Life Sciences and any technical extramural activities. Even short experiences such as science fairs, robotics clubs or community projects show technical curiosity. - **Prepare for the medical examination.** If you are aiming for a mining qualification, you will need to be medically fit to work underground. Stay healthy, manage chronic conditions and be honest in any medical questionnaires. - **Show commitment to the local community.** In your application, briefly explain how you plan to use your qualification to contribute to your community in Limpopo. Bursary providers value students who plan to give back. - **Use a professional email address.** A simple firstname.surname style works far better than nicknames. Check that your email and phone details are correct so the company can contact you within the 14-day feedback window. - **Apply well before the closing time of 23:59 on 22 May 2026.** Last-minute uploads often fail when servers are busy. - **Apply for multiple bursaries.** Even with a strong profile, mining bursaries are highly competitive. Submitting applications to several providers significantly increases your chances of receiving funding. - **Keep copies of everything you submit.** Save a folder on your phone or laptop with all uploaded documents, including the final submission confirmation. This makes follow-up much easier.

Career Prospects

Graduates funded through the IVANPLATS Bursary enter one of the most strategic sectors in the South African economy. Mining and its supporting disciplines remain a major source of employment, exports and skills development, and qualifications in engineering, geology, mining and environmental sciences open doors to a wide range of careers.

Mining engineers typically progress through roles such as mine planner, shift supervisor, section manager and eventually mine manager. With experience, many move into corporate roles in operations, strategy or business development at large mining houses. Engineering graduates may also specialise in mechanical, electrical or metallurgical disciplines that support mineral extraction and processing. These roles are critical at projects like Platreef, where modern mechanised mining requires highly skilled technical teams.

Geologists and mine surveyors are at the heart of resource development. Geologists explore for new orebodies, model existing deposits and provide the technical insight that determines whether a project is viable. Mine surveyors are responsible for accurately mapping underground and surface workings, an essential function for safety and efficient extraction. Both roles offer pathways into senior consulting positions, research, or international assignments with global mining companies.

Environmental specialists are increasingly important in modern mining. Skills in environmental management, rehabilitation, water treatment and community engagement are in high demand as mines work to reduce their environmental footprint and meet international standards. These graduates often move into environmental management, sustainability or compliance roles within mining houses, government agencies or independent consultancies.

Through the bursary, students gain not only an academic qualification but also exposure to one of South Africa's flagship mining projects. Many bursars are absorbed into the company on graduation, while others use the experience and network they build to launch careers across the mining and energy industries. With the global shift towards electrification and the growing demand for platinum-group metals, copper and nickel, the long-term career outlook for IVANPLATS bursars is strong.

## Career Prospects Graduates funded through the IVANPLATS Bursary enter one of the most strategic sectors in the South African economy. Mining and its supporting disciplines remain a major source of employment, exports and skills development, and qualifications in engineering, geology, mining and environmental sciences open doors to a wide range of careers. Mining engineers typically progress through roles such as mine planner, shift supervisor, section manager and eventually mine manager. With experience, many move into corporate roles in operations, strategy or business development at large mining houses. Engineering graduates may also specialise in mechanical, electrical or metallurgical disciplines that support mineral extraction and processing. These roles are critical at projects like Platreef, where modern mechanised mining requires highly skilled technical teams. Geologists and mine surveyors are at the heart of resource development. Geologists explore for new orebodies, model existing deposits and provide the technical insight that determines whether a project is viable. Mine surveyors are responsible for accurately mapping underground and surface workings, an essential function for safety and efficient extraction. Both roles offer pathways into senior consulting positions, research, or international assignments with global mining companies. Environmental specialists are increasingly important in modern mining. Skills in environmental management, rehabilitation, water treatment and community engagement are in high demand as mines work to reduce their environmental footprint and meet international standards. These graduates often move into environmental management, sustainability or compliance roles within mining houses, government agencies or independent consultancies. Through the bursary, students gain not only an academic qualification but also exposure to one of South Africa's flagship mining projects. Many bursars are absorbed into the company on graduation, while others use the experience and network they build to launch careers across the mining and energy industries. With the global shift towards electrification and the growing demand for platinum-group metals, copper and nickel, the long-term career outlook for IVANPLATS bursars is strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the IVANPLATS Bursary?

The bursary is open to South African citizens who reside in communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo, are classified as Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs), and are studying or intending to study towards an undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Environmental, Geology, Mine Survey or Mining at a recognised South African university.

When is the closing date?

Applications close on 22 May 2026 at 23:59. Late submissions will not be considered, so make sure to apply at least a few days before the deadline.

How long will the bursary fund my studies?

The IVANPLATS Bursary funds students for a maximum of 4 years, which is sufficient to complete a standard undergraduate qualification.

Do I have to be a first-year student to apply?

No. Students who are in their 1st year or higher at a recognised South African university may apply, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.

Will I have to work for IVANPLATS after graduating?

The bursary is closely linked to the company's recruitment pipeline. Mining-related students must be prepared to work underground and on surface, and successful candidates often have the opportunity to join the company through vacation work and graduate placements. Specific work-back terms will be confirmed in the bursary contract.

What if my Matric results or proof of residence are not yet ready?

Apply only when you have the required documents available. Incomplete applications, especially those without a valid proof of residence from your Tribal Authority or ward councillor, are usually disqualified at screening.

Will I be invited for an interview or medical?

Shortlisted candidates are typically invited to engage further with the company. For mining-related qualifications, you must be prepared to undergo a medical fitness examination as part of the selection process.

What happens after I submit my application?

IVANPLATS aims to contact shortlisted candidates within 14 days of the closing date. If you do not hear back within this period, you can consider your application unsuccessful for the current cycle.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the IVANPLATS Bursary? The bursary is open to South African citizens who reside in communities surrounding the Ivanplats mine in Limpopo, are classified as Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs), and are studying or intending to study towards an undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Environmental, Geology, Mine Survey or Mining at a recognised South African university. ## When is the closing date? Applications close on **22 May 2026 at 23:59**. Late submissions will not be considered, so make sure to apply at least a few days before the deadline. ## How long will the bursary fund my studies? The IVANPLATS Bursary funds students for a maximum of **4 years**, which is sufficient to complete a standard undergraduate qualification. ## Do I have to be a first-year student to apply? No. Students who are in their **1st year or higher** at a recognised South African university may apply, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria. ## Will I have to work for IVANPLATS after graduating? The bursary is closely linked to the company's recruitment pipeline. Mining-related students must be prepared to work underground and on surface, and successful candidates often have the opportunity to join the company through vacation work and graduate placements. Specific work-back terms will be confirmed in the bursary contract. ## What if my Matric results or proof of residence are not yet ready? Apply only when you have the required documents available. Incomplete applications, especially those without a valid proof of residence from your Tribal Authority or ward councillor, are usually disqualified at screening. ## Will I be invited for an interview or medical? Shortlisted candidates are typically invited to engage further with the company. For mining-related qualifications, you must be prepared to undergo a medical fitness examination as part of the selection process. ## What happens after I submit my application? IVANPLATS aims to contact shortlisted candidates within 14 days of the closing date. If you do not hear back within this period, you can consider your application unsuccessful for the current cycle.

Applications Closing

Applications close on 22 May 2026 at 23:59. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered, so prepare your documents early and submit well before the deadline.

## Applications Closing Applications close on **22 May 2026 at 23:59**. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered, so prepare your documents early and submit well before the deadline.

About the Organization

IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd Tel: 015 491 0600

## About the Organization IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd Tel: 015 491 0600