If you’re a South African Grade 12 learner (2025), looking to study full-time from 2026 in engineering, sciences, or non-core disciplines and need financial support, the Rio Tinto / RBM Bursary 2026 offers you that opportunity. The bursary closed in late August 2025. At BursaryForms, we are your guide to success!

About the Rio Tinto / RBM Bursary

Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) is a South African mining operation owned by the Rio Tinto Group (majority share), located in KwaZulu-Natal. It mines mineral sands (such as titanium) and aims to build local capacity by supporting students through bursaries.

Fields Covered by the Rio Tinto / RBM Bursary

This bursary supports students entering (first year) full-time studies in these fields:

  • Engineering – Core disciplines: Extractive Metallurgy, Electrical, Mechanical
  • Sciences – Environmental Science & Geology (BSc)
  • Non-core disciplines: which include Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, Industrial Engineering; Computer Science, Data Science; Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy); Management Sciences; Social Sciences; Law; Journalism, Media & Communication; Finance, Commerce, etc.

Expenses Covered by the Rio Tinto / RBM Bursary

The bursary is intended to cover the major costs of study. While specific amounts are not all detailed publicly, the benefits include:

  • Tuition / registration fees
  • Textbooks / prescribed learning materials
  • Possibly practical / lab fees and other essentials needed for course attendance
  • Some listings mention mentorship, career guidance, internship or vacation work opportunities linked to Rio Tinto / RBM.

Eligibility Requirements for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary 2026

To be eligible in 2026:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Be completing Matric in 2025 (i.e. entering 1st year in 2026)
  • Have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in Grade 12
  • Be in financial need / qualify for financial assistance
  • Intend to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
  • Preference given to designated groups — women and people with disabilities where under-representation exists

Some listings also mention provisional acceptance to university being required as part of the documentation.

This page was updated on October 7, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary 2026

Here’s how the application worked for the 2026 round:

  • Complete the online application form via Rio Tinto / RBM bursary portal or via trusted bursary directories listing the bursary.
  • Attach certified supporting documents: ID (applicant), Grade 12 report/Matric results, proof of provisional acceptance or registration, parent/guardian proof of income, ID copies of parents/guardians, motivational letter, curriculum vitae.

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date for the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary 2026

31 August 2025 was listed in several notices as the closing date for the 2026 intake for non-core disciplines.

This deadline has passed — applications submitted after that were not accepted.

Contact the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary Provider

If you have questions or want to confirm details:

Rio Tinto Richards Bay Minerals (RBM)
Email: RTgraduaterecruitmentsupport@riotinto.com
Website: riotinto.com/en/operations/south-africa/richards-bay-minerals
Alternatively via the bursary portal listings (e.g. RBM, Careers Portal etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Click each question to see its answer about the Rio Tinto RBM Bursary 2026.

Can I apply if I am already studying at university?+
No. The 2026 round was for Grade 12 learners in 2025, entering first year in 2026.
Are postgraduate students eligible?+
No. The listings specifically target learners entering undergraduate studies in 2026.
What is the minimum academic average required?+
At least 65% overall in your Grade 12 results.
Do I need provisional university acceptance?+
Yes. Proof of acceptance or provisional registration at a recognized institution is required.
Is financial need assessed?+
Yes. You must qualify for financial assistance.
Are students from designated groups given preference?+
Yes. Women and people with disabilities are prioritised in the selection.
Will the bursary cover living allowance or accommodation?+
The public listings do not clearly state coverage of accommodation or full living-expenses allowances. Confirm directly with RBM.
What happens if I miss the closing date?+
Applications submitted after 31 August 2025 were not accepted.
When will the next round open?+
No confirmed announcement found yet for the 2027 intake. Monitor Rio Tinto / RBM official channels.

Before you apply for any bursary, make sure you have a clear plan. Download our comprehensive Bursary Application Checklist to stay organized, submit your documents correctly, and increase your chances of success.

Bursary Application Checklist