Are you in grade 12 and passionate about agriculture? The department of agriculture is offering full bursaries for the 2026 academic year – and this could be your chance to further your studies without worrying about costs.
The bursary will cover tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books, and a monthly allowance. The department is especially looking for students from poor and rural communities, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Who can apply?
You must be a South African citizen and planning to study one of these agriculture-related qualifications at a university or college:
Fields of study and minimum school marks (NSC):
- BSc Eng. Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering: Minimum 70–79% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 6);
- Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc): Minimum requirements will depend on the university (check university requirements);
- BSc Agric. Entomology: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Food Science: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Animal Science: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Plant Pathology: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Soil Science: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Agronomy: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- BSc Agric. Viticulture and Oenology: Minimum 60–69% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5);
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Food Science and Technology: Minimum 50–59% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 4);
- Diploma in Food Technology: Minimum 50–59% in Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 4); and
- Advanced Diploma in agriculture-related fields: Minimum requirements will depend on the programme and institution.
Important: If you apply for a course that’s not listed above, you won’t be considered for the bursary.
How to apply
- Download and complete the bursary application form at www.nda.gov.za (click on “vacancies”).
- Email your completed form and supporting documents to Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za by 30 September 2025.
- You can apply even if you’re still waiting for your university acceptance letter or matric results. But once the matric results are released in January 2026, you must send your final documents within 3 days.
Important notes
- Only applications for the listed fields of study will be accepted.
- No late applications will be accepted.
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- You will only be contacted if you are successful. If you don’t hear from the department within 14 days after matric results are released, your application was not successful.
- The department may limit the number of bursaries based on its budget.
Need help? Contact:
- Ms Silindelo Dlomo: 012 319 7848
- Ms Bongiwe Shabalala: 012 319 7136
- Mr Sifiso Nkuna: 012 319 7201
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to build your future in agriculture – apply before 30 September 2025!
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