Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards for 2027

Are you a driven South African student with a passion for agriculture and seeking financial assistance to pursue your academic goals? The Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards for 2027 offer a comprehensive opportunity to fund your studies in vital agricultural fields. This bursary is specifically designed to support previously disadvantaged and economically disadvantaged individuals, including those from rural and underprivileged communities, to build a strong future in the sector.

If you are currently in Matric or have completed it and are planning to study full-time at an accredited South African tertiary institution in 2027, this bursary could be your stepping stone. It provides extensive financial support, covering tuition, accommodation, study materials, meals, and a monthly allowance, allowing you to concentrate fully on your education.

Who Qualifies for the Department of Agriculture Bursary?

To be considered for the Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards in 2027, applicants must meet the following core criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must currently be in Matric or have completed Matric.
• Must be studying or intend to study full-time towards one of the specified qualifications for the 2027 academic year at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution.
• The bursary prioritises individuals from previously disadvantaged and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, including those residing in rural and underprivileged communities.
• Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must not be staff members of the Department of Agriculture.

Applications for fields of study not explicitly listed by the Department will not be considered.

Eligible Fields of Study and Academic Requirements

The Department of Agriculture bursary supports a range of critical agricultural qualifications. It is crucial to ensure your intended field of study is listed, as applications for unlisted courses will not proceed.

Specific academic requirements for entry into these programmes are:

• Level 6 (70-79%) in Mathematics and Physical Science: Required for BSc Engineering Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering / Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, and Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc).
• Level 5 (60-69%) in Mathematics and Physical Science: Required for BSc Agric degrees in Agronomy, Animal Health, Entomology, Food Science, Plant Pathology, Plant Science, Soil Science, Viticulture and Oenology; Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (BVetNurs); and BHSci Veterinary Technology.
• Relevant Undergraduate Qualifications: Necessary for Advanced Diplomas in agriculture-related fields, and BSc Honours programmes in Plant Pathology and Entomology.

Note for prospective applicants: If you are awaiting your Grade 12 results or university acceptance for 2027, you can still apply. However, all outstanding documents must be submitted within three (3) days of the Grade 12 results release in January 2027.

Comprehensive Financial Support Provided

The Department of Agriculture Bursary is a fully funded award designed to remove financial barriers to higher education. Importantly, this bursary is not a loan and does not require repayment.

The bursary package typically covers:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation costs
• Study materials and textbooks
• Meals
• A monthly allowance for personal expenses

The Department of Agriculture reserves the right to determine the total number of bursaries awarded annually, depending on the available budget for the specific academic year.

Key Dates and Application Process

To ensure your application is considered, please adhere strictly to the following dates and application procedures. Late or incomplete applications will not be entertained.

Important Dates to Remember:

• Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
• Submission of Outstanding Documents: Within three (3) days after the release of Grade 12 results in January 2027.
• Communication to Successful Applicants: Within 14 days after Grade 12 final results are released and after the National Bursary Committee has finalised the selection process. Unsuccessful applicants will not be notified.

How to Apply: Applications can be submitted via the official Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) website.

The Department of Agriculture Bursary Awards for 2027 represent a significant investment in the future of South Africa's agricultural sector. For aspiring students who are passionate about agriculture and meet the eligibility criteria, this comprehensive bursary offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue higher education without financial constraints.

Ensure you meet all requirements, prepare your application meticulously, and submit it before the 30 September 2026 deadline. Don't miss out on this chance to advance your academic and professional journey in agriculture.