Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards 2027 – Apply by 30 September 2026
The South African Department of Agriculture has opened applications for the 2027 Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the bursary is
This is a government‑funded programme that supports South African students who want to study agriculture, food science, veterinary work or related fields. It aims to help the country’s food security and sustainable farming future.
Who can apply
- South African citizens only.
- Students who plan to study, or are already studying, an approved agriculture‑related qualification.
- Applicants must meet the minimum academic results shown below.
What the bursary covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Study materials (books, lab kits, etc.)
- A monthly living allowance
Fields of study funded
Only the qualifications listed by the Department are eligible.
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 (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 and Advanced Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma in agriculture‑related fields
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology
Minimum academic requirements
Engineering‑related qualifications
- Mathematics – Level 6 (70‑79 %)
- Physical Science – Level 6 (70‑79 %)
Veterinary and Agricultural Science qualifications
- Mathematics – Level 5 (60‑69 %)
- Physical Science – Level 5 (60‑69 %)
Food Technology qualifications
- Mathematics – Level 4 (50‑59 %)
- Physical Science – Level 4 (50‑59 %)
Advanced Diploma and Honours programmes
- Must already hold a relevant undergraduate qualification.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the application form from the Department of Agriculture’s official website.
- Gather supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Latest academic results (Matric and any tertiary results)
- Matric certificate (if you have it)
- Proof of university acceptance or a pending offer
- Proof of residence (if requested)
- Any additional documents mentioned in the form
- Complete the form carefully. Double‑check that every field is filled, your contact details are correct, and you have signed where required.
- Submit the application by emailing the completed form and all supporting files to
Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za.
Important dates and contacts
Closing date: 30 September 2026 (no late submissions will be accepted).
If you have questions, you can call:
- Ms Silindelo Dlomo – 012 319 7848
- Ms Bongiwe Shabalala – 012 319 7136
- Mr Sifiso Nkuna – 012 319 7201
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply early – don’t wait until the last day.
- Use a professional email address and keep your phone number active.
- Submit certified copies where the form asks for them.
- Keep a copy of the sent email and any delivery receipts.
- Apply for several bursaries (government, SETA, university, private) to increase your options.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the bursary fully funded? Yes – tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials and a monthly allowance are included.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply? Yes, even if you are waiting for final results or university offers. You must upload the missing documents within three days of receiving your Matric results (January 2027).
- Are people with disabilities welcome? Absolutely – the advert specifically encourages applications from persons with disabilities.
- What if I submit after the deadline? Late applications are not considered.
- Where do I send my application? Email it to Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za.
Conclusion
This bursary can remove the financial barrier to a career in agriculture or related science. If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents, and follow the steps above, you could secure full funding for your studies. Remember the deadline is 30 September 2026 – start your application today.
Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares this information for educational purposes only. Verify all details, requirements and deadlines directly with the Department of Agriculture before applying. Edupstairs is not liable for any changes to the programme, funding availability, or selection outcomes.
