Agricultural bursaries for South African students

Top Agricultural Bursaries for South African Students in 2025

Are you passionate about agriculture and looking for financial assistance to pursue your studies? South Africa offers a wide range of agricultural bursaries to help students achieve their dreams in this vital sector. Here’s a comprehensive list of bursaries available for South African students pursuing agriculture-related qualifications in 2024.

1. Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary

The DALRRD bursary aims to empower students in fields such as agriculture, forestry, animal health, food science, and land reform.

Eligibility: South African citizens studying agriculture-related fields at undergraduate or postgraduate levels.
Benefits: Full coverage of tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books, and a monthly stipend.
Application Process: Applications can be submitted via the department’s website or at regional offices.

2. Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary

The ARC bursary is designed to support students in agricultural sciences, crop production, soil science, and other related fields.

Eligibility: Students pursuing degrees in agriculture at accredited South African institutions.
Benefits: Full or partial funding for tuition and other educational costs.
How to Apply: Visit the ARC website for bursary opportunities and application details.

3. Overberg Agri Bursary

This bursary is offered by Overberg Agri to assist students in fields like agriculture, plant production, and agri-economics.

Eligibility: Undergraduate students with excellent academic records in agriculture-related studies.
Benefits: Financial assistance for tuition and study-related expenses.
Application Process: Application forms are available on the Overberg Agri website.

4. SACTWU Bursary Scheme

The Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union (SACTWU) provides bursaries for children of agricultural workers to pursue any field of study, including agriculture.

Eligibility: Dependents of SACTWU members studying at tertiary institutions.
Benefits: Partial funding for tuition fees.
Application Details: Contact SACTWU directly for forms and deadlines.

5. Grain SA Bursary

Grain SA supports students with a passion for grain-related agriculture, such as agronomy, crop production, and agricultural economics.

Eligibility: Students dedicated to pursuing careers in grain-related fields.
Benefits: Tuition fees and textbook costs.
How to Apply: Applications can be submitted via the Grain SA website.

6. AgriSETA Bursary

AgriSETA offers bursaries for various fields in agriculture, such as agricultural management, horticulture, and forestry.

Eligibility: South African students enrolled in agriculture-related qualifications.
Benefits: Tuition coverage and, in some cases, additional study-related costs.
Application Process: Apply through the AgriSETA online portal or their office.

7. Monsanto Fund (Bayer) Bursary

Bayer (formerly Monsanto) provides financial assistance to students excelling in agricultural and science-related fields.

Eligibility: High-performing students studying agriculture or agricultural innovation.
Benefits: Full or partial bursary coverage.
Application Process: Details are available on Bayer’s South Africa website.

8. Corteva Agriscience Bursary

Corteva Agriscience offers bursaries to students studying plant science, biotechnology, and other agriculture-focused programs.

Eligibility: Students with strong academic performance in agriculture-related studies.
Benefits: Tuition, books, and sometimes living allowances.
How to Apply: Visit the Corteva Agriscience website for announcements.

Tips for Applying for Agricultural Bursaries

Prepare Early: Gather all necessary documents, including certified copies of your ID, academic records, and proof of financial need.
Highlight Your Passion: Write a strong motivation letter explaining your interest in agriculture and career goals.
Meet Deadlines: Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.
Check Requirements: Each bursary has specific eligibility criteria, so tailor your application accordingly.

Pursuing a career in agriculture can lead to a rewarding and impactful profession. These bursaries provide a stepping stone for South African students passionate about making a difference in this essential industry. Don’t miss out—apply today and secure your future in agriculture!