Are you a South African student passionate about agriculture? The National Department of Agriculture Bursaries 2027 offer a great chance for financial support. This programme helps students pursue agriculture-related studies in 2027. Applications close on 30 September 2026, so start preparing now.
Bursary Programme Overview
The Department of Agriculture provides bursaries for the 2027 academic year. These awards target South African students interested in agriculture, food production, agricultural science, and environmental sustainability. The programme supports innovation in farming and helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds finish their degrees.
What the Bursary Covers
This bursary pays for key study expenses. It includes tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals, and a monthly allowance. These costs add up quickly, so the support makes higher education more accessible.
Fields of Study
The bursary funds specific qualifications in agriculture. Here are the main areas:
Agricultural Engineering and Technology
- BSc Engineering Agricultural (also called 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
Only these listed fields qualify, so check if your course matches.
Minimum Academic Requirements
You need strong grades in certain subjects, depending on your chosen field.
For engineering-related qualifications:
- Mathematics Level 6 (70-79%)
- Physical Science Level 6 (70-79%)
For veterinary and agricultural science qualifications:
- Mathematics Level 5 (60-69%)
- Physical Science Level 5 (60-69%)
For food technology qualifications:
- Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%)
- Physical Science Level 4 (50-59%)
Advanced diplomas and honours require a relevant undergraduate degree already.
Who Can Apply
South African citizens can apply. This includes:
- Students planning to study approved agriculture qualifications.
- Current students in approved programmes.
- Grade 12 learners awaiting final results or university acceptance (submit missing documents within three days of January 2027 results).
- Persons with disabilities.
Required Documents
Gather these before applying:
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Latest academic results.
- Matric certificate (if completed).
- Proof of university application or acceptance.
- Any extra documents listed on the form.
All documents must be clear and certified. No affidavits allowed.
Important Notes
Fill out the official form correctly. Late applications get rejected. Only listed fields count. You’ll hear from the department only if selected. If no response after Grade 12 results and committee decisions, assume unsuccessful.
How to Apply
Download the official form from the Department of Agriculture website. Complete it and attach all documents. Email everything to [email protected].
Apply early and keep proof of submission. The form is available here.
Enquiries
Contact these people for questions:
- Ms Silindelo Dlomo: 012 319 7848
- Ms Bongiwe Shabalala: 012 319 7136
- Mr Sifiso Nkuna: 012 319 7201