The National Department of Agriculture is inviting South African students to apply for the Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027. This bursary opportunity is aimed at learners and students who want to pursue studies in agriculture-related fields at recognised institutions in South Africa.
The bursary is designed to support young people who are passionate about agriculture, food production, animal health, food science, agricultural technology, environmental sustainability and innovation in the agricultural sector.
Bursary Details
Bursary provider: National Department of Agriculture
Academic year: 2027
Location: South Africa
Closing date: 30 September 2026
What the Department of Agriculture Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive financial support for study-related costs such as:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals
- Monthly allowance
This makes the bursary a valuable opportunity for students who need financial assistance to complete their studies in the agricultural sector.
Fields of Study Covered
The Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme funds selected qualifications in agriculture-related fields.
Agricultural Engineering and Technology
- BSc Engineering Agricultural / Bioresource Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- BSc Food Science and Technology
- Diploma in Food Technology
Veterinary and Animal Sciences
- Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing
- BHSc Veterinary Technology
- BSc Agricultural Animal Health
Agricultural Sciences
- BSc Agricultural Entomology
- BSc Agricultural Food Science
- BSc Agricultural Plant Pathology
- BSc Agricultural Plant Science
- BSc Agricultural Soil Science
- BSc Agricultural Agronomy
- BSc Agricultural Viticulture and Oenology
Postgraduate and Advanced Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma in agriculture-related fields
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the academic requirements for their chosen qualification.
Agricultural Engineering Requirements
Applicants interested in engineering-related agricultural studies must have:
- Mathematics Level 6: 70–79%
- Physical Science Level 6: 70–79%
Veterinary and Agricultural Science Requirements
Applicants applying for veterinary and agricultural science qualifications must have:
- Mathematics Level 5: 60–69%
- Physical Science Level 5: 60–69%
Food Technology Requirements
Applicants applying for food technology qualifications must have:
- Mathematics Level 4: 50–59%
- Physical Science Level 4: 50–59%
Advanced Diploma and Honours Requirements
Applicants for advanced diploma or honours programmes must already hold a relevant undergraduate qualification.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to South African citizens who want to study or are already studying approved agriculture-related qualifications.
Grade 12 learners who are waiting for their final matric results or university acceptance letters may also apply. However, missing documents must be submitted within three days after Grade 12 results are released in January 2027.
Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare clear and certified copies of the required supporting documents, including:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Matric certificate, if already completed
- Proof of university application or acceptance
- Any other supporting documents required on the official application form
Affidavits will not be accepted as replacements for required documents.
How to Apply for the National Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027
Applicants must download and complete the official Department of Agriculture bursary application form.
Completed application forms, together with all supporting documents, must be submitted by email to:
Applicants are advised to check their forms carefully before submitting and keep proof that the application was sent.
Enquiries
For bursary enquiries, applicants may contact:
Ms Silindelo Dlomo
Tel: 012 319 7848
Ms Bongiwe Shabalala
Tel: 012 319 7136
Mr Sifiso Nkuna
Tel: 012 319 7201
Closing Date
The closing date for the National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 is:
30 September 2026
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants who do not receive feedback after the release of Grade 12 results and after the National Bursary Committee has finalised selections should consider their applications unsuccessful.
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