Are you passionate about agricultural sciences and eager to further your academic career in this dynamic field? The ARC Masters Bursary for Agricultural Studies offers a unique opportunity for students pursuing their Master’s degrees in various agricultural-related disciplines. If you have the ambition to work and study simultaneously, and you meet the eligibility requirements, this bursary can support you in your academic journey while providing valuable real-life research experience.
Disciplines Available for the ARC Masters Bursary
The ARC Masters Bursary is available for students in the following fields:
Plant Sciences
- Agronomy
- Plant Pathology/Virology
- Microbiology
- Plant Breeding
- Soil & Water
- Horticulture
- Analytical Chemistry
- GIS (Geographic Information System)
- Entomology
- Earth Observation
- Mycology
- Crop Protection
- Agro-Processing & Product Development
- Remote Sensing
- Bacteriology
- Data Science
- Environmental Restoration
- Nematology
- Weed Science
Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Genome Engineering
- Molecular Breeding in Plants
- Biofuels and Renewable Energy
- Plant Tissue Culture
- Aquaculture
- Zoology
- Life Sciences
Agricultural Economics & Capacity Development
- Agribusiness Management
- Agricultural Economics
- Intellectual Property & Commercialization
- Environment & Natural Resources Management
- Agricultural Extension
- Information Systems
- Socio-Economics
Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Irrigation Engineering
- Post-Harvest and Agro-Processing
- Bio-resource Engineering
- Precision Agriculture
Minimum Requirements for the Bursary
To apply for the ARC Masters Bursary for Agricultural Studies, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Educational Requirements: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences or a related field.
- Registration: You must be registered or accepted to study for a Master’s qualification in Agricultural Sciences or a related field at a South African university.
- Commitment: You must be willing to work and study at the same time, as the program requires attendance at workplace training during academic holidays and collaboration on real-life research projects.
Bursary Details
The ARC Masters Bursary is valued at R140 000 per annum (non-taxable) and is payable in 12 monthly instalments. This funding is meant to cover tuition fees, accommodation, transport, food, and other academic-related expenses.
Applicants will receive a mentor from the ARC who will guide them through practical research projects, providing hands-on experience in the field. Furthermore, students will be expected to attend workplace training during academic breaks.
The payment of the bursary is contingent on the submission of proof of registration and ongoing progress in studies.
Read more: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have
How to Apply
To apply for the ARC Masters Bursary, applicants must submit the following:
- A cover letter that expresses your interest in the bursary and how it aligns with your academic goals.
- A detailed CV, including certified copies of certificates and proof of university registration or acceptance.
- At least three contactable referees who can speak to your qualifications and character.
Applications must be submitted by 5 August 2025 to be considered for the program.
Additional Information
Successful applicants will be required to undergo a security clearance as part of the ARC’s recruitment process. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups according to the ARC Employment Equity Act Plan.
The ARC Masters Bursary for Agricultural Studies is a golden opportunity for ambitious students to pursue advanced studies in agriculture. With a substantial bursary value, professional mentorship, and hands-on research experience, this program is perfect for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector. Apply today and take the first step toward a successful future in agricultural sciences.