Anglo American

About Anglo American

Anglo American is a global mining company with deep roots in South Africa. Its local interests include platinum, iron ore and diamonds. Platinum now operates through Valterra Platinum, which separated from the group in 2025. Iron ore comes from the Kumba business, and diamonds from De Beers. The group's head office in South Africa is in Rosebank, Johannesburg.

Mining is technical and safety-critical work. A mine cannot run without qualified engineers, geologists, metallurgists, surveyors and finance specialists. For that reason, Anglo American has long funded students to build its own supply of skilled people.

How Anglo American supports students

The group's bursary schemes target students in fields such as mining, mechanical, electrical and chemical or metallurgical engineering, geology, mine surveying, rock engineering and finance. Reports on earlier calls describe a strong focus on pure mathematics and physical science results, with a minimum of 60% for many streams. Check the latest advert, since the list of fields differs between business units and years.

Funding has typically covered registration and tuition fees, textbooks and a computer allowance. Some streams add medical cover and an allowance for living costs. Bursars also often gain vacation work at a mine or office. This gives them hands-on experience and a head start when they graduate.

Beyond its own recruitment needs, the company links bursaries to development near its operations. As a result, some places go to students from mining communities who might otherwise be unable to afford tertiary study.

What to know before applying

Most streams come with a work-back commitment. After you qualify, you take up employment with the company for a period equal to the years of funding. You, and often a parent or guardian, sign a formal agreement before the bursary starts. If you do not take up the role, the agreement can require you to repay the funding. Be sure that a mining career suits you before you apply.

Applicants must usually be South African citizens in matric or already at a public university. Applications are normally submitted online, and calls often open in the first half of the year. The exact dates differ by business unit. For example, the platinum bursary was once run under the Anglo American Platinum name, and the structure has changed since the demerger. Always confirm which company is running the call and read the official advert before you apply.

Prepare certified copies of your ID, your latest results, proof of acceptance and proof of household income. Put effort into your motivation, too. Selection panels look for strong marks, interest in the industry and a clear financial need.