National Department of Agriculture Bursaries 2027: A Practical Guide for South African Students

For thousands of South African students dreaming of careers in agriculture, food science, veterinary studies, and agricultural engineering, the National Department of Agriculture Bursaries 2027 programme could become a crucial stepping stone toward higher education and long-term career development.

As South Africa continues to focus on food security, agricultural innovation, environmental sustainability, and rural economic growth, the demand for skilled agricultural professionals is increasing. In response, the Department of Agriculture has opened applications for its 2027 bursary programme, offering financial support to qualifying students pursuing agriculture-related studies.

The bursary programme is designed to help students from different backgrounds access tertiary education while strengthening the country’s future agricultural workforce.

Why the Agriculture Sector Matters More Than Ever

Agriculture remains one of the most strategically important sectors in South Africa’s economy. Beyond food production, the industry supports employment, exports, environmental management, and technological innovation.

Modern agriculture now requires expertise in:

• Agricultural engineering
• Food science
• Soil science
• Animal health
• Plant pathology
• Agronomy
• Biosystems technology
• Environmental sustainability

The Department of Agriculture’s bursary programme reflects this growing need for highly trained professionals who can help modernise farming systems and improve food resilience in South Africa.

What the 2027 Bursary Programme Offers

The National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme provides financial assistance for students enrolled in approved agriculture-related qualifications. According to the programme details, the bursary may cover:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Study materials
• Meals
• Monthly allowance

This support can significantly reduce the financial burden on students and families, especially for learners from disadvantaged communities.

Fields of Study Supported by the Programme

The bursary targets a wide range of agriculture-related disciplines, ensuring opportunities exist for students with different academic interests and career goals.

Agricultural Engineering and Technology

Students interested in technical and engineering-focused careers may apply for funding in programmes such as:

• BSc Engineering Agricultural (Bioresource Engineering)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
• BSc Food Science and Technology
• Diploma in Food Technology

These qualifications are increasingly important as agriculture adopts automation, precision farming, irrigation technologies, and climate-smart systems.

Veterinary and Animal Science Opportunities

The programme also supports students pursuing animal health and veterinary-related careers, including:

• Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing
• BHSc Veterinary Technology
• BSc Agricultural Animal Health

These professions play a vital role in livestock management, disease prevention, food safety, and veterinary services across rural and urban communities.

Agricultural Science Qualifications Included

For students interested in research, crop science, and environmental systems, the bursary funds several agricultural science disciplines, including:

• BSc Agricultural Entomology
• BSc Agricultural Food Science
• BSc Agricultural Plant Pathology
• BSc Agricultural Plant Science
• BSc Agricultural Soil Science
• BSc Agricultural Agronomy
• BSc Agricultural Viticulture and Oenology

These areas are essential for improving crop yields, combating plant diseases, and adapting agriculture to changing climate conditions.

Support for Postgraduate and Advanced Studies

The programme is not limited to undergraduate students. The Department also funds selected postgraduate and advanced qualifications, including:

• Advanced Diploma in agriculture-related fields
• BSc Agricultural Honours in Plant Pathology
• BSc Agricultural Honours in Entomology

This creates opportunities for students who want to continue into research, specialised professional work, or academic careers.

Understanding the Academic Requirements

One of the most important aspects of the bursary application process is meeting the minimum academic requirements for the chosen field of study.

Engineering-Related Agricultural Qualifications

Applicants pursuing engineering-based agricultural qualifications must achieve:

• Mathematics Level 6 (70–79%)
• Physical Science Level 6 (70–79%)

These requirements reflect the technical nature of engineering and biosystems programmes.

Veterinary and Agricultural Science Qualifications

Students applying for veterinary or agricultural science qualifications must have:

• Mathematics Level 5 (60–69%)
• Physical Science Level 5 (60–69%)

Food Technology Qualifications

Applicants for food technology studies require:

• Mathematics Level 4 (50–59%)
• Physical Science Level 4 (50–59%)

Advanced Diploma and Honours Programmes

Students applying for postgraduate funding must already possess a relevant undergraduate qualification.

Who Can Apply?

The bursary programme is open to South African citizens planning to study approved agricultural qualifications.

Importantly, the Department allows both:

• New students entering tertiary education
• Students already studying approved agricultural programmes

Grade 12 learners awaiting matric results or university acceptance letters may also submit applications. However, missing documents must be provided within three days after matric results are released in January 2027.

The programme also specifically encourages persons with disabilities to apply, reinforcing broader inclusion efforts in higher education.

Important Application Rules Students Should Not Ignore

Many bursary applications fail because of missing documents, incomplete forms, or late submissions.

The Department has clearly stated several important conditions:

• Only listed fields of study will be considered
• Late applications will not be accepted
• Affidavits cannot replace required documents
• Only successful applicants will receive communication

Applicants who do not receive feedback after the final selection process should regard their application as unsuccessful.

Documents Required for the Application

Students are advised to prepare all supporting documents early to avoid delays.

Required documents include:

• Certified copy of ID
• Latest academic results
• Matric certificate (if completed)
• Proof of university application or acceptance
• Additional documents requested on the application form

All documents must be clear and properly certified where required.

How to Apply for the National Department of Agriculture Bursary 2027

Applicants must complete the official Department of Agriculture bursary application form and submit it together with supporting documents.

Completed applications must be emailed to:

Externalbursaries@nda.gov.za

The official application deadline is:

30 September 2026

Students are strongly encouraged to apply early and keep proof of submission after emailing their applications.

Click here to apply for  National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme 2027

Department Contacts for Enquiries

Applicants needing assistance may contact the following officials:

Ms Silindelo Dlomo

Tel: 012 319 7848

Ms Bongiwe Shabalala

Tel: 012 319 7136

Mr Sifiso Nkuna

Tel: 012 319 7201

These contacts can assist students with questions regarding eligibility, documentation, or application procedures.

What This Programme Means for South Africa’s Future

The National Department of Agriculture Bursary Programme is more than just financial aid. It represents a long-term investment in South Africa’s agricultural future.

As the country faces challenges related to climate change, food security, population growth, and technological transformation, skilled agricultural professionals will become increasingly valuable.

Programmes like this help create opportunities for young South Africans while supporting innovation in farming, sustainability, and agricultural science.

For many students, especially those from financially constrained households, this bursary may become the key that unlocks access to higher education and a professional career in one of South Africa’s most essential industries.