Act now if you want financial help for university – the deadline to apply for the Potatoes South Africa bursary closes on 31 August 2026, and places are limited.
What the bursary offers
Potatoes South Africa will award four bursaries for the 2027 academic year. Funding is available for students in their second year or higher, studying at a recognised South African university. Both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are covered, including BTech, Honours, Masters and PhD degrees that relate to the potato industry.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have completed Matric.
- Study full‑time at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
- Enter at least the second year of study in 2027.
- Be enrolled in one of the approved fields (see below).
- Maintain a strong academic record.
Approved fields of study are:
- Agricultural Economics
- Agronomy
- Plant Production
- Crop Production
- Soil Science
- Any other course that is relevant to the potato industry.
What you will get
The bursary covers tuition, fees and a living allowance. Recipients may also join internship or workplace‑experience programmes that give hands‑on knowledge of the potato sector. This practical exposure improves employment chances after graduation.
How to apply – step by step
- Complete the online application form: Apply for Potatoes South Africa Bursary Programme 2027.
- Gather the required documents (see list below).
- Combine every document into one single PDF. Arrange the files in the same order as the list.
- Name the PDF using your full name and ID number, e.g. Joe_Smith_0102030040455.pdf.
- After submitting the online form, you will receive a link to upload the PDF.
- Submit before 31 August 2026.
Required documents
- Certified copy of your ID document.
- Matric certificate.
- Certificates for any qualifications you already hold.
- Most recent academic transcripts.
- Proof of registration or a university admission letter.
- Proof of household income (guardian’s payslips, affidavit if unemployed, or SASSA slip if a grant is received).
- Any other supporting evidence you think is relevant.
- For Masters and PhD applicants: a progress report **or** a recommendation letter from your supervisor.
Work‑back obligation
If you accept the bursary, you must work for a potato‑industry‑related organisation, company or institution after graduation. The required work period will be equal to the length of the bursary you received. Consider this commitment before you apply.
Selection process
Shortlisted candidates will be notified no later than 31 December 2026. If you have not heard from PSA by that date, your application was not successful.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is legible and correctly signed.
- Ensure the PDF follows the naming convention exactly.
- Write a concise personal statement that links your study interests to the potato industry.
- Ask a lecturer or supervisor to review your application before you submit.
- Keep a copy of everything you upload for your records.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, start collecting your documents today so you can finish the online form well before the deadline. The bursary can ease the financial burden of your studies and open doors to a career in agriculture. Good luck!
Enquiries
For any questions, call 012 349 1906 or email bursaries1@potatoes.co.za.
