SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant 2026 – A Chance to Pay Your Post‑Graduate Fees
If you’re a student in South Africa who is studying for a BSc (Hons) in Food Science or a BTech in Food Technology, you might want to hear about a scholarship that can cover all of your tuition for the whole year. The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) is offering a one‑time grant of R20 000 to a student who meets certain conditions. The deadline to apply is 27 February 2026, so don’t wait to see if you qualify.
Who is SAAFoST?
SAAFoST is a professional group that supports people in the food industry. It has about 2 000 members from across South Africa and Southern Africa. The organization does a lot of useful work: it helps new research, organizes training, puts on workshops and talks, and encourages students to study food science. The SAAFoST Foundation runs awards and bursaries, and the Aubrey Parsons Study Grant is one of them.
What the Grant Covers
- Amount – R20 000.
- Use – The money is paid straight to your university for tuition.
- Frequency – It is only paid once; it does not change if you finish your degree early or later.
- Selection – The biggest factor is your grades.
Where Can You Apply?
Only students who are enrolled full‑time at approved universities or universities of technology can be considered. The accepted departments are:
| Food Science | Food Technology |
|---|---|
| Stellenbosch University | Cape Peninsula University of Technology |
| University of Pretoria | Durban University of Technology |
| University of Venda | Tshwane University of Technology |
| University of the Free State | University of Johannesburg |
You cannot apply yourself; your department head must nominate you. Each institution can nominate only one student. If your department thinks you are a good fit, ask the head to send in a nomination.
What Do You Need to Show?
- Proof that you have been a member of SAAFoST for at least 12 months.
- Proof that you are registered full‑time at one of the listed institutions.
- Your complete academic record, showing all previous years.
- The nomination form (PDF or DOCX) that the department will fill out.
All of the documents should be sent to:
SAAFoST Membership Development Officer
Email: irene@saafost.org.za
Subject line: “SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant Application”
Make sure you send everything before 27 February 2026 – late files won’t be taken into account.
Who Can Get This Grant?
- You must be a member of SAAFoST for at least a year.
- You must be studying full‑time in a food science or food technology program listed above.
- Your past average must be 70 % or higher.
- You need to show a strong academic record overall.
If you fail to meet even one of these points, you won’t be considered.
Why Should You Care?
Food science and food technology are key to making sure the food we eat is safe, tasty, and healthy. They also drive new ways to produce food and help the South African industry grow. If you are serious about a career in this field and your grades are good, this grant can give you the money you need to finish your postgraduate studies without extra stress.
How to Get Started
- Check your eligibility – look at the list of requirements above.
- Ask your department head – tell them you want a nomination.
- Gather the documents – membership card, registration proof, and your grades.
- Fill out the nomination form – the department will do this.
- Send everything to the email above – keep the subject line exactly as shown.
If you have any questions, call 071 870 2633 or email irene@saafost.org.za. The office is ready to help.
One Final Thought
A scholarship is more than just money. It’s a sign that someone believes in your potential to make a difference in food safety, quality, and innovation. If you feel you can use this grant to further your studies and help South Africa’s food industry thrive, don’t miss the chance. Apply by 27 February 2026 and give yourself a solid boost for your future.
Want more details? Visit the SAAFoST website: SAAFoST.
