Hortgro has to date spent more than R43 million on bursaries which assisted above 700 students to complete their tertiary education. There is a set of qualifications that Hortgro is willing to fund. The Hortgro Bursary offers financial support to help you reach your dreams of securing a qualification of your choice. Your studies must be aligned to the area of business of Hortgro which creates a pool of qualified individuals who can be absorbed by the sector.
About Hortgro
Hortgro is the industry body for South Africa’s pome and stone fruit industry (apples, pears, plums) based in Paarl, supporting growers in Ceres, Grabouw and Elgin. Today the company prides itself of its involvement is all aspects of fruits industry with the objective of contributing towards the sustainability of the sector.
Fields of Study Covered by the Hortgro Bursary
The Hortgro Bursary Programme is accepting applications for Agriculture studies commencing in the 2027 academic year. Agriculture in South Africa. They must enroll in recognized institutions of higher learning within the borders of the country. These institutions include Stellenbosch University, Northwest University, University of the Free State, Potchefstroom College of Agriculture and Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute.
The bursary targets applicants from previously disadvantaged students who cannot afford to pay for their studies.
The bursary programme is aligned with scarce and critical skills and preference will be given to
students studying towards the following disciplines:
- Agricultural Economics
- Horticulturist (Production /Post harvest)
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Soil and Water Scientist
- Marketing Specialist
- Agricultural-Science
- Project Management
- Entomology
- Agri-Management
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
Who Can Apply?
If you wish to apply for the Hortgro bursary, you must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must be South African citizens
- You must have completed Grade 12 OR be currently in Grade 12
- You must enroll or intend to enroll towards a qualification within one of the fields of study listed above, in 2027 academic year
- You must enroll or register to study at a recognized tertiary institution in South Africa
- You must meet the admission criteria for your chosen course of study
Grads24.co.za is committed to accurate, up-to-date bursary information. This page outlines important information about the Hortgro bursary.
How To Apply?
Complete forms via Hortgro Bursary Application 2027 dedicated page.
Closing Date
15 August 2026 at 23:59. No late applications. Applications closed 15 Aug 2025 for 2026 cycle. 2027 intake opens 15 May 2026.
See other Agriculture Bursaries and Scholarships available for 2027.
Bursary Contact Information
Bursary Contact: Tel: 021 870 2900 Email: learn@hortgro.co.za – Contact ONLY when open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Elsenburg diploma students apply? Yes, Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute diplomas in Agriculture are fully covered. TVET colleges are NOT covered.
Does it cover accommodation? Yes, Hortgro covers tuition, accommodation, prescribed books and stipend – amount varies based on need and academic results (partial to full).
Can I apply if I have NSFAS? No, you will be disqualified for double funding.
When will I know? Shortlisted in September 2026, final feedback by October 2026.
What Can You Study + Salary After Hortgro?
- Horticulturist (Production) – Manage apple/pear farms in Ceres, Grabouw. Starting: R22,000 – R30,000 pm, Senior: R45k
- Soil & Water Scientist – Irrigation planning for Hortgro growers. Starting: R25,000 – R35,000 pm
- Post-harvest Technologist / Packhouse Manager – Elgin, Paarl. Starting: R28,000 – R40,000 pm
- Agricultural Economist / Marketing Specialist – Export marketing. Starting: R28,000 – R40,000 pm
- Plant Pathologist / Entomologist – Research at Hortgro Science. Starting: R26,000 – R38,000 pm
Pro Tip: In your essay say “I want to contribute to sustainability of deciduous fruit in Grabouw/Ceres” – that’s Hortgro’s mission.
Mistakes That Get Rejected:
- Applying before 15 May 2026 – Portal closed, application auto-deleted. Wait for official open.
- Missing handwritten essay – Many attach typed CV only. Form requires handwritten essay on future role in agriculture.
- Applying for wrong course – LLB, IT, Nursing = instant reject. Must be agriculture fields listed above.