By Maile Matsimela
The Department of Agriculture (DoA) has officially opened applications for its 2026 academic year bursary awards programme. This initiative aims to support qualified applicants, particularly those from disadvantaged and rural communities, by providing comprehensive financial assistance for studies in agricultural fields.
The bursary programme offers extensive support to successful applicants, including full tuition fees, accommodation costs, meals, book allowances and monthly stipend.
The DoA is particularly encouraging applications from previously disadvantaged communities, impoverished rural areas and people with disabilities.
The bursary programme supports various undergraduate and diploma programmes in agriculture-related fields, including agricultural engineering, veterinary science, food science, plant pathology, soil science and other agricultural-related disciplines.
To qualify for this bursary opportunity, applicants must be South African citizens and have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with the following minimum requirements for their chosen field:
- BSc Eng. Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering: Mathematics and Physical Science (70-79%, or Grade 6)
- Other specific fields (e.g., BSc Food Science, Plant Pathology): Mathematics and Physical Science (60-69%, or Grade 5)
- BAS Food Science and Technology: Mathematics and Physical Science (50-59%, or Grade 4) 3.
Apply for one of the listed fields of study for 2026 (applications for unlisted fields will not be considered).
Interested candidates should complete the relevant bursary application form available on the Department of Agriculture’s website: www.nda.gov.za (under the “vacancies” section) and submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to: Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za.
Applicants must meet the submission deadline of 30 September 2025 as late applications will not be considered.
Applicants must submit a completed bursary application form, university acceptance letter (if available at time of application), Grade 12 results (these can be submitted within three days after their release in January 2026 if not available during initial application) and other supporting documents as specified (note that affidavits are not accepted).
Important dates:
- Application closing date: September 30, 2025
- Submission of Grade 12 results: Within 3 days of release in January 2026
- Notification period: Within 14 days after Grade 12 results release and completion of the selection process
Please note that communication will be limited to successful applicants only. If no response is received within 14 days after the release of Grade 12 results, applications should be considered unsuccessful.
Contact information
For further inquiries, contact:
- Silindelo Dlomo: (012) 319 7848
- Bongiwe Shabalala: (012) 319 7136
- Sifiso Nkuna: (012) 319 7201
This bursary programme represents a significant opportunity for students aspiring to further their studies in agriculture while receiving comprehensive financial support.
