The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) is inviting South African students to apply for its 2027 bursary programme. The deadline is 16 November 2026 at 23:59, so you need to start your application now if you want support for your studies.
What the SATI Bursary Programme offers
The bursary helps students who study subjects that are useful to the table‑grape sector and its supply chain. Funding is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. Preference is given to programmes and research that match the industry’s needs.
Undergraduate fields of study
- BSc Agric – Viticulture and Oenology (Table Grapes)
- BSc Agric – Plant and Soil Sciences (Crop Production Systems with Grapevine Sciences)
- Entomology
- Genetics
- Plant Pathology
- Agricultural Economics
- Soil and Water Management
- Soil Science
- Crop Protection and Breeding
- B Agric – Plant Production (Viticulture)
- Diploma in Crop Production (Viticulture)
Postgraduate fields of study
- Entomology
- Genetics
- Plant Pathology
- Soil Science
- Viticulture
- Other research areas relevant to table grapes
Who can apply (Eligibility)
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You are studying, or plan to study, a qualification that relates to the table‑grape industry.
- You must be enrolled at a registered South African tertiary institution, full‑time or part‑time.
- You need at least a “D” average overall.
- You should be interested in a career within the table‑grape sector or its supporting industries.
Preference criteria
- Students in their second year of study or further.
- Previously disadvantaged learners.
- Applicants with clear financial need.
- People already working or involved in the table‑grape industry.
- Participants in grape‑empowerment businesses, land‑reform beneficiaries, farmworkers or their children.
- Students doing industry‑related research projects.
What you will get
The bursary may cover part or all of the following costs, depending on the SATI budget and CEO approval:
- Tuition fees
- Study materials
- Accommodation
- Food
- Living expenses
- Other justified study‑related costs
Funding is awarded for one academic year at a time. You must reapply each year and maintain satisfactory academic performance to keep receiving support.
Documents you must submit
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified proof of your highest qualification
- Certified copy of your most recent academic results
- Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance at an accredited tertiary institution
If you are applying for a postgraduate place, also include:
- A research proposal
- Confirmation that the proposal has been accepted by the relevant supervisor(s)
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all required documents and have them certified where needed.
- Visit the official application portal: SATI Bursary Application.
- Create an account or log in, then fill in the online form with your personal details, study information and upload the documents.
- Read the full application guidelines carefully before submitting. You can view them here: SATI Bursary Application Guidelines.
- Submit the application before 23:59 on 16 November 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply early – portals can slow down close to the deadline.
- Make sure every document is certified and clearly legible.
- Tailor your personal statement to show how your study will benefit the table‑grape industry.
- If you are a postgraduate applicant, ensure your research proposal is well‑structured and has supervisor approval.
- Highlight any prior work or volunteer experience in vineyards, farms, or related projects.
- Double‑check that all required fields are completed; incomplete applications will not be considered.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, start collecting your documents today. Follow the step‑by‑step guide to submit a complete application before the 16 November deadline. Remember, shortlisted candidates will be contacted by mid‑January 2027. Good luck, and take the first step toward a career in South Africa’s vibrant table‑grape industry.
