Kumba Iron Ore Bursary 2026 — Mining and Engineering Students
Kumba Iron Ore, a subsidiary of Anglo American, is the largest iron ore producer in Africa and one of the biggest globally. Kumba's bursary programme targets mining engineering, metallurgy, geology and related engineering disciplines at South African universities.
About the Kumba Iron Ore (Anglo American) Bursary
Kumba Iron Ore operates the Sishen Mine in the Northern Cape and the Kolomela Mine in Postmasburg. Together, these mines produce tens of millions of tonnes of iron ore per year for export to steelmakers in Asia and Europe. Kumba is listed on the JSE and is majority-owned by Anglo American. Kumba's bursary programme is administered through the Anglo American Bursary scheme and provides comprehensive financial support, vacation work experience and direct access to graduate employment at world-class mining operations.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition and university registration fees
- Annual book allowance
- Monthly living allowance
- Vacation work at Kumba's Sishen or Kolomela mine
- Safety and technical induction training
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: South African citizen, with preference for candidates from the Northern Cape
- Study level: Undergraduate degree at an accredited South African university
- Fields of study: Mining Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Geology, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Management
- Academic average: Minimum 65% in Mathematics and Physical Science at matric
- Financial need: Financial need is considered alongside academic merit
- Work-back obligation: Graduates are expected to work at Kumba Iron Ore for a period equal to their years of funding
When to Apply
Applications open in August each year and close in October. Check www.angloamerican.com/kumba or the Anglo American careers portal for exact dates.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Visit the Anglo American careers portal at www.angloamerican.com/careers
- Search for Kumba Iron Ore or Anglo American bursary programmes
- Create a profile and complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents as PDF files
- Complete any required online assessments
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews at Kumba offices
Documents Required
- Certified South African ID
- Certified matric certificate with results
- Academic transcript (if currently enrolled)
- Proof of university registration or conditional offer
- Motivational letter with interest in mining
- Two academic or school reference letters
- Proof of household income
Tips and Additional Information
Kumba Iron Ore's bursary programme is one of the most sought-after in the mining sector. Candidates from communities near the Sishen and Kolomela mines are specifically encouraged to apply as part of Kumba's social development commitments. The company also runs SLP-funded bursaries for local community members.
Contact Details
- Official website: https://www.angloamerican.com/kumba
- Phone: 053 739 2000
- Kumba Iron Ore head office is in Centurion, Gauteng. Mining operations are at Sishen (Northern Cape) and Kolomela (Northern Cape).