The South African Department of Agriculture has officially opened applications for the 2027 Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards. This opportunity is aimed at students who are passionate about agriculture, food production, environmental sustainability, and scientific innovation within the agricultural sector.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary before you Apply
For many young South Africans, especially those from disadvantaged communities, university education can feel financially impossible. The Department of Agriculture bursary programme is designed to reduce that burden by funding students who want to pursue agricultural qualifications that are considered important for the future of South Africa’s economy and food security.
The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals, and also includes a monthly allowance.
Quick Overview
Programme: Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards 2027
Organisation: Department of Agriculture
Location: South Africa
Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Funding Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals
- Monthly allowance
Who Can Apply:
- South African citizens
- Students planning to study agriculture-related qualifications
- Students already studying approved agricultural programmes
Application Email Address: Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za
Fields of Study Funded by the Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027
The following qualifications are funded under the programme:
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
These qualifications are considered strategic because they contribute directly to agricultural development, food systems, scientific research, and sustainable farming in South Africa.
Minimum Requirements for the Department of Agriculture Bursary
The Department listed several academic requirements depending on the qualification being applied for.
For Engineering-Related Agricultural Qualifications
Applicants need:
- Mathematics Level 6 (70–79%)
- Physical Science Level 6 (70–79%)
For Veterinary and Agricultural Science Qualifications
Applicants need:
- Mathematics Level 5 (60–69%)
- Physical Science Level 5 (60–69%)
For Food Technology Qualifications
Applicants need:
- Mathematics Level 4 (50–59%)
- Physical Science Level 4 (50–59%)
For Advanced Diploma and Honours Programmes
Applicants must already have:
- Relevant undergraduate qualifications
Important Application Notes
The Department included several important conditions that applicants must understand before applying.
Applicants Must Be South African Citizens
Only South African citizens may apply for this bursary programme.
Application Forms Must Be Completed Correctly
Students must complete the official bursary application forms available from the Department’s website.
Not All Agricultural Qualifications Are Covered
Only the fields listed in the advert are eligible.
Communication Will Only Be Sent to Successful Applicants
If you do not hear back within:
- 14 days after Grade 12 results are released, and
- after the National Bursary Committee finalises selections,
you should consider your application unsuccessful.
Grade 12 Learners Can Apply Before Final Results
Students who are still waiting for:
- university acceptance letters, or
- final matric results
may still submit applications.
However, the missing documents must be submitted within three days after Grade 12 results are released in January 2027.
Late Applications Will Not Be Accepted
Applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered.
Affidavits Will Not Be Accepted
The Department clearly stated that affidavits are not accepted in place of required supporting documents.
How to Apply for the Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027
Here is the application process explained step-by-step.
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download the bursary application form here
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Certified copy of ID
- Latest academic results
- Matric certificate (if completed)
- Proof of university application or acceptance
- Proof of residence if requested
- Any additional supporting documents required
Make sure all documents are clear and certified where necessary.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form Carefully
Avoid:
- Missing information
- Incorrect contact details
- Incomplete signatures
- Wrong qualification selections
Many bursary applications are rejected because forms are incomplete.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Completed applications and supporting documents must be emailed to: Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za
Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027 Closing Date
The official closing date for all applications is: 30 September 2026
Students are strongly encouraged not to wait until the last day.
Submitting early helps avoid:
- Email delivery problems
- Missing documents
- Network issues
- Last-minute mistakes
Enquiries and Contact Persons
The bursary advert lists the following contact persons for enquiries:
Ms Silindelo Dlomo Tel: (012) 319 7848
Ms Bongiwe Shabalala Tel: (012) 319 7136
Mr Sifiso Nkuna Tel: (012) 319 7201
Edupstairs Advice for Applicants
Competition for government bursaries can be strong, especially comprehensive bursaries that cover multiple study costs.
To improve your chances:
- Apply early
- Double-check every document
- Use a professional email address
- Make sure your phone number is active
- Submit certified copies where required
- Keep proof of submission
- Apply for multiple bursaries instead of relying on one
Students should also continue applying for:
- NSFAS
- University funding
- SETA bursaries
- Private bursaries
Do not wait for one opportunity only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is the Department of Agriculture bursary fully funded?
Yes. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials, and a monthly allowance.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. Learners waiting for final matric results or university acceptance letters may still apply.
- Are students with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes. The advert specifically encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
- Can I apply if I am already studying?
Yes, provided your qualification falls within the approved fields listed by the Department.
- What happens if I submit late?
Late applications will not be considered.
- What is the closing date?
30 September 2026.
- Where do I submit my application?
Applications must be emailed to: Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za
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- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
Application Outcome Tracker (anonymous)
No names collected. This helps future applicants understand real-world timelines.
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares opportunity information for educational and awareness purposes. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, requirements, and closing dates directly with the Department of Agriculture before applying. Edupstairs is not responsible for changes to the application process, funding availability, or selection outcomes.
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