Time is running out to secure a fully‑funded place in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering or Veterinary Medicine for 2027. The LDARD External Bursary Programme can cover tuition, accommodation, books, meals and a monthly allowance, but the cut‑off is 16:00 on 30 October 2026. Act now.
What the bursary offers
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) is providing external bursaries for the 2027 academic year. The funding is ‘comprehensive’ – it may pay for tuition, student residence, textbooks, meals and a regular stipend.
Funding depends on the department’s budget and the number of bursaries awarded. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee a place.
Who can apply
- South African citizens only.
- Students (or Grade 12 learners) who intend to study – or are already studying – one of the three approved programmes:
- Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering
- National Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
- Mathematics Level 6 (70 %–79 %) and Physical Science Level 6 (70 %–79 %). These are bursary thresholds; you must also satisfy the university’s admission standards.
- Applicants from previously disadvantaged, low‑income or rural backgrounds.
- Women and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
What you will receive
- Full or partial tuition fees.
- Accommodation costs.
- Textbooks and other learning materials.
- Meals.
- A monthly living allowance.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the official form: LDARD External Bursary Application Form.
- Gather the required documents (see section below). Make sure any that need certification are properly certified.
- Complete the form in full. Do not wait for a university acceptance letter – you may submit while that document is still pending.
- Submit the completed form and supporting paperwork to the address indicated on the form, routing it through your district of residence:
Head of Department
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
69 Biccard Street
Private Bag X9487
Polokwane
0700 - Keep a copy of everything you send. The department will only contact successful applicants.
Documents you will need
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Grade 12 certificate or official statement of results (or latest school report if you are still in Grade 12).
- Academic record if you are already at university.
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill).
- Salary advice or proof of income for a parent/guardian.
- University admission letter – if you have it (optional).
Check the application form for any additional items that may apply to your situation.
Tips to improve your chances
- Verify that your chosen qualification matches exactly one of the three listed programmes.
- Confirm your Mathematics and Physical Science marks meet the Level 6 requirement before you start the form.
- Certify all required documents early – certification can take a few days.
- Submit well before the deadline; aim to have everything ready at least a week in advance.
- Keep the completed form and copies of all documents in case you need to follow up.
- Continue searching for other bursaries while you wait – the LDARD award is not guaranteed.
What happens after you apply?
If you are successful, LDARD will contact you within 60 days. No communication after that period should be taken as an unsuccessful outcome. Keep your records and stay open to alternative funding sources.
Why this bursary matters
Study costs in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering and Veterinary Medicine go beyond tuition. Accommodation, textbooks, meals and everyday living expenses can be a major barrier for students from low‑income or rural households. A comprehensive bursary can remove many of those obstacles and help you focus on your studies.
Next steps
Check your eligibility, gather the required paperwork, and submit your application before the deadline. Early preparation makes the difference between a complete, competitive application and a missed opportunity.