The Department of Agriculture Bursaries for 2027 are important right now because many South African students need help paying for study costs, and these bursaries support careers that are in real demand. If you want to study agriculture, veterinary science, food technology, plant science, or related fields, this opportunity may help you continue your studies with less financial pressure.
The closing date is 30 September 2026. If you wait too long, you may miss the chance. Many applicants struggle because they only start preparing after results or admission letters are ready. That can cause delays. It is better to collect your documents early and submit on time.
What this bursary is
The Department of Agriculture is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year.
This funding is for South African students who want to study approved agriculture-related qualifications.
The bursary supports fields linked to food production, animal health, crop science, soil science, agricultural engineering, and food technology.
This is not a general bursary for any course. You must choose a qualification that appears in the official advert.
Who can apply
South African citizens can apply.
You may apply if you are:
- A current student in an approved agriculture-related programme
- A prospective student planning to study one of the listed qualifications
- A Grade 12 learner waiting for final results or a university admission letter
- A person with a disability
If you are a Grade 12 learner, you may still submit your application even if some documents are not ready yet. But you must send the missing documents within three days after the Grade 12 results are released in January 2027.
What fields are funded
You must apply for one field of study only. Make sure it matches your current or intended qualification.
The Department funds the following areas:
- Agricultural engineering
- Veterinary science
- Veterinary nursing
- Animal health
- Food technology
- Agricultural sciences
- Advanced diplomas
- Honours studies
Engineering and technology fields
The following qualifications are included:
- BSc Eng. Agricultural, also known as Bioresource Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- BAS Food Science and Technology
- Diploma in Food Technology
These courses may suit you if you enjoy Mathematics, Physical Science, food systems, engineering, and practical problem-solving.
Veterinary and animal-related fields
The bursary also supports selected veterinary and animal qualifications. These include:
- Bachelor of Veterinary Science
- Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing
- BHSci Veterinary Technology
- BSc Agricultural Animal Health
If you care about animal health, livestock systems, veterinary support, or agricultural biosecurity, these fields may be a good fit.
Agricultural science fields
Students interested in crops, soil, plant health, and production can consider these options:
- 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
These qualifications can lead to work in research, crop protection, soil management, food systems, and agricultural production.
Advanced diploma and honours studies
Yes, the bursary also includes selected advanced diploma and honours programmes.
These are:
- Advanced Diploma in agriculture-related fields
- Advanced Diploma in Plant Production
- Advanced Diploma in Animal Production or Animal Science
- Advanced Diploma in Agriculture Management
- Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Extension
- Advanced Diploma in Food Science and Technology
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
- BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology
To apply for these, you need a relevant undergraduate qualification.
Minimum academic requirements
You must meet the academic requirements for the qualification you choose.
For Agricultural Engineering and Bachelor of Veterinary Science, you need:
- Mathematics Level 6, which is 70–79%
- Physical Science Level 6, which is 70–79%
For Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Technology and Agricultural Science fields, you need:
- Mathematics Level 5, which is 60–69%
- Physical Science Level 5, which is 60–69%
For BAS Food Science and Technology and Diploma in Food Technology, you need:
- Mathematics Level 4, which is 50–59%
- Physical Science Level 4, which is 50–59%
For Advanced Diploma and Honours programmes, you need a relevant undergraduate qualification.
What the bursary covers
This bursary may help with the main costs of studying.
It can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals
- Monthly allowance
This support can make a big difference if you are worried about study costs. Many students want to study, but financial pressure blocks them. This bursary can help reduce that burden if you qualify.
Documents you must prepare
You must attach certified copies of the required documents.
These include:
- Your identity document
- Your parent or guardian identity documents
- Death certificates, if applicable
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Academic record or Grade 12 results and university admission letter
- Family income proof, such as salary advice not older than three months
- SASSA confirmation letter, if applicable
- Proof of unemployment from the Department of Labour, if applicable
The Department will not accept affidavits instead of the required supporting documents.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Start with the income documents first. Many students remember the ID copy and results, but forget parent or guardian income proof. Also, make sure every certified copy is clear and readable before you email your application.
How to apply
Follow these steps carefully:
- Download the official bursary application form from the Department.
- Complete the form using block letters.
- Answer every question clearly.
- Mark the correct boxes where needed.
- Choose only one field of study from the approved list.
- Attach all required certified documents.
- Check that your files are clear and complete.
- Email the form and documents before the closing date.
You must use the official application form here: official bursary application form
Send your completed application to:
Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za
Before sending, check every attachment again. Keep proof that you submitted your application. If your email bounces or a file is missing, your application may not be considered.
Useful tips to improve your chances
There is no guarantee of selection. Bursaries are competitive, and many strong applicants may apply.
To improve your chances, you should:
- Apply early, not on the last day
- Use the correct field of study
- Submit certified copies that are easy to read
- Include income proof for your household
- Make sure your academic marks meet the minimum requirement
- Check that your email address and contact details are correct
- Keep a copy of everything you send
If you are still waiting for Grade 12 results or an admission letter, do not panic. You can still submit, but you must follow up quickly and send the missing documents within the required time.
Contact details for enquiries
If you have bursary-related questions, you may contact these people:
Ms Silindelo Dlomo
Tel: 012 319 7848
Ms Bongiwe Shabalala
Tel: 012 319 7136
Mr Sifiso Nkuna
Tel: 012 319 7201
Use these contacts only for bursary enquiries.
Closing date
The closing date for the Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027 is 30 September 2026.
Late applications will not be considered. That is why you should not wait until the end of September. Prepare your documents now, check them carefully, and send your application early.
Final thoughts
The Department of Agriculture Bursaries 2027 can help South African students who want to build a career in agriculture, veterinary science, food technology, plant science, soil science, and related fields.
If this fits your study plan, read the requirements carefully, gather your documents, and apply through the official email address before 30 September 2026.
Take your time, follow the instructions, and keep proof of submission. Small mistakes can cost you this chance, so careful preparation matters.