For many South African students, the cost of higher education remains one of the biggest barriers to achieving their career goals. The good news is that the Department of Agriculture has officially opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Awards Programme, offering comprehensive financial support to students pursuing critical agricultural qualifications.

The bursary is designed to help develop the next generation of agricultural professionals who will contribute to food security, scientific research, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation across South Africa.

Students who qualify can receive funding for tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals, and a monthly allowance, making this one of the most comprehensive government bursary opportunities currently available.

Quick Overview

Programme	Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards 2027
Organisation	Department of Agriculture
Location	South Africa
Closing Date	30 September 2026
Funding Type	Fully Funded Bursary
Monthly Allowance	Included
Application Method	Email Submission
Application Email	Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za

Why This Bursary Matters for South Africa’s Future

Agriculture remains one of the most important sectors of South Africa’s economy. Beyond farming, the industry supports food production, environmental management, biotechnology, veterinary sciences, engineering, logistics, research, and export markets.

The Department of Agriculture is investing in qualifications that address national skills shortages and future workforce demands.

Students selected for this bursary will gain access to qualifications that can lead to careers in:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Animal Health Sciences
• Veterinary Services
• Food Technology
• Plant Science
• Soil Science
• Agricultural Research
• Agronomy
• Agricultural Biotechnology
• Sustainable Farming Systems
• Agricultural Extension Services

As climate change, food security challenges, and population growth continue to shape the sector, skilled agricultural professionals are becoming increasingly valuable in both the public and private sectors.

Fields of Study Funded by the Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027

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 (BVetNurs.)
• 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 Does the Bursary Cover?

Successful applicants will receive funding for:

Tuition Fees

The Department pays approved academic tuition costs.

Accommodation

Funding is provided for approved student accommodation.

Meals

Students receive support for meal expenses during their studies.

Study Materials

Prescribed academic materials and study resources are covered.

Monthly Allowance

Recipients also receive a monthly allowance to assist with day-to-day living expenses.

This comprehensive support allows students to focus on their academic performance without the constant pressure of financial challenges.

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Eligibility Requirements

South African Citizenship

Applicants must be South African citizens.

Engineering Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• Mathematics Level 6 (70–79%)
• Physical Science Level 6 (70–79%)

Veterinary and Agricultural Science Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• Mathematics Level 5 (60–69%)
• Physical Science Level 5 (60–69%)

Food Technology Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• Mathematics Level 4 (50–59%)
• Physical Science Level 4 (50–59%)

Advanced Diploma and Honours Qualifications

Applicants must already possess the relevant undergraduate qualification required for admission.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Download the Official Application Form

Obtain the bursary application form from the Department of Agriculture’s official website.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Prepare the following:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Latest academic results
• Matric certificate (if available)
• Proof of university application or acceptance
• Proof of residence (if requested)
• Any additional supporting documents required by the Department

Step 3: Complete the Application Form Carefully

Before submitting, check for:

• Missing information
• Incorrect contact details
• Missing signatures
• Incorrect qualification selections

Many applications are rejected because forms are incomplete.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Email the completed application and supporting documents to:

Externalbursaries@nda.gov.z

Important Conditions Applicants Must Know

Grade 12 Learners May Apply

Learners who are still awaiting:

• Final matric results
• University acceptance letters

may submit applications before receiving these documents.

Outstanding documents must be submitted within three days after Grade 12 results are released in January 2027.

Late Applications Will Not Be Accepted

Applications received after 30 September 2026 will not be considered.

Affidavits Are Not Accepted

Applicants must provide the required official documents. Affidavits cannot be used as substitutes.

Only Successful Applicants Will Be Contacted

If you do not receive feedback within 14 days after matric results are released and the bursary committee has finalized selections, your application should be considered unsuccessful.

Future Employability: Where Can This Qualification Take You?

One of the strongest benefits of this bursary is that it supports qualifications linked to sectors experiencing ongoing demand for skilled professionals.

Graduates may pursue opportunities in:

Government Departments

Roles in agricultural development, policy implementation, food security programmes, and extension services.

Agricultural Research Institutions

Research careers focusing on crop production, animal health, climate adaptation, and sustainable farming practices.

Agribusiness Companies

Employment opportunities with seed companies, food manufacturers, agricultural technology firms, and commercial farming enterprises.

Veterinary and Animal Health Services

Specialised careers supporting livestock health, disease control, and veterinary technology.

Entrepreneurship

Many graduates eventually establish agricultural enterprises, consulting practices, farming operations, or agri-tech startups.

Agriculture continues to be one of the sectors that combines science, technology, sustainability, and economic development, making it a strong long-term career pathway.

Martine Smith’s Expert Insight

Government bursaries attract thousands of applications every year. Here are four practical ways to improve your chances:

1. Apply Early

Many students wait until the final week. Early applications allow time to correct mistakes and submit missing documents.

2. Match Your Qualification Exactly

Only approved qualifications are funded. Double-check that your programme title matches one listed in the bursary advert.

3. Use Professional Communication

Ensure your email address, phone number, and supporting documents look professional and are easy to read.

4. Submit Complete Documentation

Missing certified copies, incomplete forms, or unsigned sections remain among the most common reasons applications are rejected.

Always review your application twice before submission.

Document Checklist

Before sending your application, confirm you have:

• Certified South African ID copy
• Latest academic results
• Matric certificate (if completed)
• Proof of university application or acceptance
• Any required supporting documents
• Fully completed application form
• Correct email submission address
• Personal proof of submission

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Department of Agriculture bursary fully funded?

Yes. The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals, and includes a monthly allowance.

Can Grade 12 learners apply?

Yes. Learners awaiting final results or university acceptance letters may still apply.

Can current university students apply?

Yes. Students already enrolled in approved agricultural qualifications may apply.

Are students with disabilities encouraged to apply?

Yes. The Department encourages applications from persons with disabilities.

What happens if I submit my application late?

Late applications will not be considered.

What is the application closing date?

30 September 2026.

Where must applications be submitted?

Applications must be emailed to:

Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za

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Final Thoughts

The Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027 presents an outstanding opportunity for students who want to build meaningful careers in agriculture, science, engineering, veterinary services, and food systems.

Because the bursary covers multiple study costs and includes a monthly allowance, competition is expected to be strong. Prepare your documents early, submit a complete application, and continue applying for additional funding opportunities such as NSFAS, SETA bursaries, university funding, and private-sector bursaries.

To stay updated on bursary opportunities, application deadlines, and learnership programmes, applicants can monitor trusted opportunities through Mysetaportal.co.za.

Disclaimer

Mysetaportal.co.za is an independent information publisher that shares education, bursary, internship, learnership, and career-related opportunities. Mysetaportal.co.za is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the South African government, the Department of Agriculture, NSFAS, any SETA, or any other public institution. Applicants should always verify application details through official sources before submitting applications.