Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards 2027 – Apply by 30 September 2026
Time is running out – you have until 30 September 2026 to apply for the South African Department of Agriculture 2027 Bursary Awards. This funding can turn your dream of studying agriculture into reality, right now.
What the bursary offers
The Department of Agriculture is giving fully‑funded bursaries for students who want to study in agriculture, food science, veterinary work or related fields. The award covers tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials and a monthly allowance.
Who can apply
- South African citizens only.
- Students who intend to study – or are already studying – one of the approved agricultural qualifications listed below.
- Applicants must meet the academic thresholds for their chosen field (see “Minimum requirements”).
What you will gain
- All university costs paid – you can focus on learning.
- A monthly stipend to help with daily expenses.
- Hands‑on experience in a sector that feeds the nation.
- Improved job prospects after graduation, especially in the public and private agri‑business arenas.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the application form. The form is available on the Department’s website.
- Gather supporting documents.
- Certified copy of your ID
- Latest academic results (matric results or university transcript)
- Matric certificate (if you have it)
- Proof of university acceptance or application
- Proof of residence (if requested)
- Any other documents asked for in the form
- Complete the form carefully. Check that every field is filled, signatures are included, and the correct qualification is selected.
- Email your application. Send the completed form and all supporting files to Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za.
- Submit before the deadline. Aim to send your email well before 30 September 2026 to avoid technical glitches.
Minimum academic requirements
- Engineering‑related courses: Mathematics Level 6 (70–79 %) and Physical Science Level 6 (70–79 %).
- Veterinary & agricultural science courses: Mathematics Level 5 (60–69 %) and Physical Science Level 5 (60–69 %).
- Food technology courses: Mathematics Level 4 (50–59 %) and Physical Science Level 4 (50–59 %).
- Advanced diplomas & honours: Must already hold the relevant undergraduate qualification.
Fields of study that are funded
These programmes are eligible for the bursary:
- Agricultural Engineering & Technology
- BSc Engineering Agricultural (Bioresource Engineering)
- Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- BSc Food Science and Technology
- Diploma in Food Technology
- Veterinary & Animal Sciences
- Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (BVetNurs.)
- 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 & Advanced qualifications
- Advanced Diploma in agriculture‑related fields
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply early – don’t wait for the last day.
- Double‑check every document is clear, certified and attached.
- Use a professional email address (no nicknames).
- Keep a copy of the sent email and any delivery receipts.
- Apply for other funding sources at the same time (NSFAS, university bursaries, SETA bursaries, private sponsors).
Contact details for questions
If you need clarification, you can call:
- Ms Silindelo Dlomo – (012) 319 7848
- Ms Bongiwe Shabalala – (012) 319 7136
- Mr Sifiso Nkuna – (012) 319 7201
Final thoughts
This bursary can remove the financial barrier to a career in agriculture, food science or veterinary practice. The deadline is fast approaching, so gather your documents, complete the form, and send it to Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za today. Taking action now puts you one step closer to a funded university place and a brighter future.
