Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 is now open for applications. The deadline is 30 September 2026, so you have limited time to secure funding for an agriculture‑related qualification in South Africa.
What the bursary offers
The National Department of Agriculture will fund qualified South African students for the 2027 academic year. The bursary is designed for those who want to study in fields such as agriculture, food technology, veterinary science, environmental sustainability or related engineering.
Who can apply
To be considered you must be a South African citizen and intend to study one of the approved qualifications listed below. You may be a:
- A Grade 12 learner awaiting final results or university acceptance.
- A student already enrolled in an approved programme.
- A person with a disability – you are encouraged to apply.
Minimum academic requirements
Engineering‑related agricultural courses
- Mathematics – Level 6 (70‑79%)
- Physical Science – Level 6 (70‑79%)
Veterinary and agricultural science courses
- Mathematics – Level 5 (60‑69%)
- Physical Science – Level 5 (60‑69%)
Food technology courses
- Mathematics – Level 4 (50‑59%)
- Physical Science – Level 4 (50‑59%)
Advanced Diploma and Honours programmes
- Already hold a relevant undergraduate qualification.
Qualifications that are funded
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
- 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
What the bursary covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals
- A monthly living allowance
How to apply – step by step
- Download the official application form from the Department’s website.
- Complete the form accurately. Only the listed fields of study are eligible.
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results (matric or university)
- Matric certificate (if already issued)
- Proof of university application or acceptance letter
- Any additional documents requested on the form
- Email the completed form and all supporting files to Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za.
- Keep a copy of the email and any proof of submission.
Download the application form here: National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 – application form.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every required field on the form is filled in.
- Ensure all documents are clear, legible and, where needed, certified.
- Submit early – late applications are not accepted.
- Do not replace missing documents with affidavits; the Department will reject them.
- If you are awaiting final matric results, submit the form now and upload the results within three days after they are released (January 2027).
Contact information
- Ms Silindelo Dlomo – Tel: 012 319 7848
- Ms Bongiwe Shabalala – Tel: 012 319 7136
- Mr Sifiso Nkuna – Tel: 012 319 7201
Final reminder
The application window closes on 30 September 2026. Apply promptly, verify every document, use the correct email address and keep a record of your submission. Good luck with your application!
