Now is a good time to secure funding for your agriculture studies – the Citrus Academy Bursary Programme 2027 is open for applications.
What the bursary is
The Citrus Academy is offering a bursary for the 2027 academic year. It supports students studying courses that relate to citrus production, agricultural research or the wider farming sector in South Africa.
Who can apply
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following:
- South African, Zimbabwean or Swazi citizenship.
- Completed Matric.
- Enrolled full‑time or part‑time in a recognised South African university, college or university of technology.
- Studying a qualification that starts in the second year or higher in 2027.
- Interested in a career in the citrus industry.
- Willing to sign the Citrus Academy Bursary Agreement and meet its terms.
Fields of study covered
- Agriculture
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Management
- Entomology
- Horticulture
- Industrial Engineering
- Plant Pathology
- Plant Production
- Mechanical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Soil Science
What you gain
The bursary provides partial funding. It can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Approved textbooks and stationery
- Accommodation and meals
- Research costs for postgraduate students
- Other study‑related expenses
It does not cover the full cost of study, so you may need additional support.
Bursary obligations
- Sign a bursary agreement and follow the Citrus Academy Code of Conduct.
- Maintain the academic standards set by the academy.
- Complete a work‑back service in the citrus industry equal to the duration of funding received.
Required documents
- Certified copy of your ID (or passport/ID if you are from Zimbabwe or Swaziland).
- Certified copy of your Matric results.
- Certified copy of your most recent tertiary transcript.
- Motivational essay (max 500 words).
- For postgraduate applicants – a brief outline of the proposed research project and supervisor details.
Motivational essay
Explain why you want to continue your studies, describe any experience you have in the citrus sector, and outline how you will give back to the industry after graduation.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official application portal at Citrus Academy Bursary South Africa 2027 and create an account.
- Log in and fill in the online application form.
- Upload clear, certified copies of all required documents.
- Enter your motivational essay and, if applicable, your research project details.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Application deadline: 15 September 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Tips to improve your chances
- Check that every document is legible and certified.
- Keep your essay focused, honest and under 500 words.
- Highlight any previous involvement with citrus farms, internships or community projects.
- Demonstrate financial need and explain how the bursary will help you complete your studies.
- If you are a female or a student with a disability, make sure this is clear in your application – the programme gives them preference.
Selection process
After the closing date, applications are scored using a weighted system. Academic performance, financial need, relevance of the field of study and the priority of the research (for postgraduates) are all considered. Shortlisted candidates are notified by mid‑December 2026. If you do not hear back, the application will be regarded as unsuccessful.
Contact details
If you have questions about the bursary, you can reach Citrus Academy during the following hours:
Tel: 031 765 3410
Contact hours: 08:30 – 16:30
Email (bursary enquiries): learnmore@citrusacademy.org.za
For technical issues with the online portal, email: candice@citrusacademy.org.za
Next steps
This bursary is a solid pathway into the citrus and broader agricultural industry. Gather your documents, write a clear essay, and submit before 15 September 2026. Good luck!
