The National Department of Agriculture has opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Awards, a fully funded opportunity for South Africans who want to study agriculture-related qualifications. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, meals and a monthly allowance. Current Grade 12 learners and students already enrolled in approved agricultural programmes can apply, and applications close on 30 September 2026. If you dream of a career in food production, veterinary science or agricultural engineering, this is your funding chance.
About the Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme
The Department of Agriculture is the national government department responsible for agricultural policy, food security and support to farmers across South Africa. Its annual external bursary programme funds students in qualifications the state considers strategic for the country’s future: fields that keep the nation fed, protect animal health and drive scientific innovation in farming.
The 2027 intake targets both new university entrants and students already studying approved agricultural programmes. Unlike a loan, this bursary does not have to be repaid, and it is comprehensive: tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials and a monthly allowance are all included. Grade 12 learners who are still waiting for final results or university acceptance letters may apply now and submit outstanding documents within three days after matric results are released in January 2027. Persons with disabilities are specifically encouraged to apply.
What Is Covered
- Full tuition fees at a South African institution
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals
- A monthly allowance
Funded fields include BSc Agricultural Engineering (Bioresource Engineering), Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Food Science and Technology, Diploma in Food Technology, Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Technology, Agricultural Animal Health, and BSc Agricultural streams in Entomology, Food Science, Plant Pathology, Plant Science, Soil Science, Agronomy and Viticulture and Oenology, plus selected Advanced Diploma and Honours programmes.
RELATED: Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary 2027: Fully Funded, Closes 30 September
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens only
- Students planning to study, or already studying, one of the approved agriculture-related qualifications
- Engineering-related qualifications: Mathematics Level 6 (70-79%) and Physical Science Level 6 (70-79%)
- Veterinary and agricultural science qualifications: Mathematics Level 5 (60-69%) and Physical Science Level 5 (60-69%)
- Food technology qualifications: Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%) and Physical Science Level 4 (50-59%)
- Advanced Diploma and Honours applicants must hold the relevant undergraduate qualification
Required Documents
- Completed official bursary application form (available from the Department)
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Matric certificate if you have completed Grade 12
- Proof of university application or acceptance
- Proof of residence if requested
- Note: affidavits are not accepted in place of required documents
How to Apply
- Obtain the official 2027 full-time bursary application form from the Department of Agriculture.
- Prepare certified copies of all supporting documents listed above.
- Complete the form carefully – incomplete forms, missing signatures and wrong qualification choices are common reasons for rejection.
- Email your completed application and supporting documents to the Department’s external bursaries office.
- Keep proof of submission and make sure your phone and email are active for feedback.
Apply at the Department of Agriculture – email Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za
Enquiries: Ms Silindelo Dlomo (012) 319 7848, Ms Bongiwe Shabalala (012) 319 7136, Mr Sifiso Nkuna (012) 319 7201.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027 is 30 September 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
For thousands of talented learners from farming communities and townships alike, the cost of university is the single biggest barrier between a matric certificate and a professional career. This bursary removes that barrier completely, covering not just fees but the living costs that force many students to drop out.
Agriculture is also a sector where South Africa genuinely needs skills: food security, animal health and climate-resilient farming all depend on a new generation of scientists, engineers and technologists. Graduates in these fields step into careers with government, agribusiness, research councils and the private sector. Applying costs nothing except care and time. If you meet the maths and science requirements, submit early, double-check every document and give yourself a real shot at studying fully funded in 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am still in Grade 12?
Yes. Learners awaiting final matric results or university acceptance may apply now, then submit the missing documents within three days after results are released in January 2027.
Is the bursary fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials and a monthly allowance.
Can I apply if I am already at university?
Yes, provided your qualification is on the Department’s approved list of funded fields.
How will I know if I was successful?
Only successful applicants are contacted. If you have not heard back within 14 days after Grade 12 results are released and the National Bursary Committee finalises selections, consider your application unsuccessful.
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