For many South African students, the dream of obtaining a university qualification is often challenged by financial constraints. To help address this challenge, the National Department of Agriculture has officially opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme.
This bursary is aimed at students who want to pursue careers in agriculture, food production, environmental sustainability, engineering, animal health, and other critical fields that contribute to South Africa’s agricultural growth and food security.
The programme provides comprehensive financial support, making it one of the most valuable bursary opportunities available to students interested in agriculture-related studies.
About the National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027
The Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme is designed to support talented and deserving South African students who wish to pursue qualifications in scarce and strategic agricultural fields.
The initiative forms part of the department’s broader effort to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to agricultural innovation, sustainable farming practices, food production, and scientific research.
Students who are selected for the programme will receive funding for essential study-related expenses, allowing them to focus on their academic success without the burden of financial stress.
Bursary Overview
Programme: Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards 2027
Organisation: National Department of Agriculture
Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South Africa
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive funding for:
Tuition fees
Accommodation
Study materials
Meals
Monthly allowance
This support helps students manage both their academic and living expenses throughout their studies.
Fields of Study Funded by the Bursary
The Department of Agriculture is funding a range of qualifications that are considered important for the future development of the agricultural sector.
Agricultural Engineering and Technology
Students pursuing any of the following qualifications may apply:
Students enrolled in the following programmes may qualify:
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
The bursary also supports:
Advanced Diploma qualifications in agriculture-related fields
BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology
These qualifications have been identified as priority areas because they contribute directly to food security, scientific advancement, agricultural development, and environmental sustainability.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to South African citizens who are either:
Currently studying an approved agricultural qualification, or
Planning to enrol in one of the approved programmes
Applicants must meet the academic requirements for their chosen field of study.
Minimum Academic Requirements
The required academic results vary depending on the qualification being pursued.
Agricultural Engineering Qualifications
Applicants must have:
Mathematics Level 6 (70% to 79%)
Physical Science Level 6 (70% to 79%)
Veterinary and Agricultural Science Qualifications
Applicants must have:
Mathematics Level 5 (60% to 69%)
Physical Science Level 5 (60% to 69%)
Food Technology Qualifications
Applicants must have:
Mathematics Level 4 (50% to 59%)
Physical Science Level 4 (50% to 59%)
Advanced Diploma and Honours Programmes
Applicants must already possess a relevant undergraduate qualification related to their chosen postgraduate field.
Important Information for Applicants
Before submitting an application, students should carefully review the programme requirements.
South African Citizenship Is Required
Only South African citizens are eligible to apply for this bursary programme.
Complete the Application Form Correctly
Incomplete applications may not be considered. Applicants should ensure that all sections of the application form are completed accurately.
The bursary only supports the qualifications specifically listed in the programme advertisement.
Communication With Applicants
The department will only contact successful applicants.
If applicants do not receive feedback within the specified period after Grade 12 results are released and the selection process has been completed, they should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Grade 12 Learners Are Encouraged to Apply
Students who are still waiting for:
Final matric results
University acceptance letters
may submit their applications before receiving these documents.
However, any outstanding documents must be submitted within three days after the release of the 2026 matric results in January 2027.
Late Applications Will Not Be Accepted
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Affidavits Are Not Accepted
Applicants must provide the required official supporting documents. Affidavits cannot be used as substitutes.
Documents Required for the Application
Applicants should prepare the following supporting documents:
Certified copy of South African ID
Latest academic results
Matric certificate (if available)
Proof of university application or acceptance
Proof of residence, if requested
Any additional supporting documents required by the department
All documents should be clear, legible, and certified where necessary.
Applicants must complete the official Department of Agriculture bursary application form.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Ensure all required documents are available and properly certified before submission.
Step 3: Complete the Form Carefully
Double-check:
Personal details
Contact information
Qualification details
Signatures
Supporting documentation
Many applications are unsuccessful due to missing information or incomplete forms.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Completed application forms together with all supporting documents must be submitted via the department’s designated application process before the closing date.
The closing date for the National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 is:
30 September 2026
Students are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid delays, missing documents, or technical issues that may arise closer to the deadline.
Why This Bursary Matters
Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors. It plays a critical role in food production, job creation, environmental management, and rural development.
By investing in students studying agricultural disciplines, the Department of Agriculture is helping to develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, animal health professionals, researchers, and agricultural specialists who will contribute to the country’s future growth.
For students with a passion for agriculture and related sciences, this bursary offers a valuable opportunity to obtain a recognised qualification without the financial burden that often comes with higher education.
Conclusion
The National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 provides comprehensive financial assistance to students pursuing qualifications in key agricultural fields. With funding that covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, meals, and a monthly allowance, the programme can significantly ease the cost of higher education.
Students who meet the academic requirements and are committed to building a career within South Africa’s agricultural sector should take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications before the closing date. Early preparation and careful completion of the application process can greatly improve the chances of success.
