SAAFoST Bursary South Africa 2026

Do you want to pursue your dream career in food science and technology? It does not matter whether you come from Nongoma or from Cofimvaba, the SAAFoST Bursary is looking for you! It offers funding opportunities to undergraduate and postgraduate students in Food Science and Technology. The aim of this bursary is to empower the next generation by covering expenses like tuition, books, and more.

Fields of Study Covered by the SAAFoST Bursary

The SAAFoST Bursary invites applications for financial support for 2026 academic here from students pursuing these qualifications below:

  • BSc in Food Science and Technology or related fields (e.g., Biotechnology, Consumer Science) Undergraduate Matriculant Bursary)
  • BSc in Food Science and Technology (2nd to 4th year, Undergraduate Part-Time/Full-Time Bursary)
  • Postgraduate (Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship): Honours, Master’s, or PhD in Food Science, with a focus on food-related research topics.

Bursary Value and Benefits

Successful applicants who get awarded a bursary will receive the following:

  • Up to R15,000 per year for tuition, books, and study materials.
  • R35,000 per year for one Master’s and one Doctorate student, covering tuition, research costs, and related expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

If you wish to apply for financial assistance from SAAFoST, you must meet the requirements set out as a criteria for consideration. In order to qualify you must:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Completed Matric with strong results in Maths, Science, and English (minimum 60% average)
  • Entering 2nd–4th year of BSc Food Science with a 60%+ average
  • Pursuing Honours, Master’s, or PhD in Food Science with a potato or food-related research topic; 65%+ average
  • Have financial need (household income < R350,000/year preferred)
  • Be enrolled full-time or part-time at a recognized South African university
  • Not hold another bursary or scholarship

Additional Requirements – Competencies and Skills

  • Strong analytical
  • Scientific skills
  • Passion for food safety, nutrition, and sustainability
  • Excellent research and problem-solving abilities
  • Commitment to ethical practices in the food sector
  • Leadership potential and teamwork

SAAFoST Bursary Application Process

Applying is straightforward—follow these steps for your SAAFoST Bursary 2026 submission:

  1. Choose Your Bursary Type: Decide on Matriculant, Undergraduate, or Postgraduate based on your level.
  2. Download the SAAFoST Bursary Application Form 2026 for Matriculants or SAAFoST Bursary Application Form for Undergraduate students already in tertiary institutions.
  3. Complete the form by providing personal and academic information required.
  4. Attach Supporting Documents.
  5. Send your appliction form by email to saafost.ct@mweb.co.za with the subject “SAAFoST Bursary Application 2026.

Required Supporting Documents

There is a set of supporting documents that you must submit together with your application. These are:

  • South African ID document
  • Matric certificate or latest school results (if in Matric)
  • Full academic record/transcripts (on university letterhead, if studying)
  • Proof of acceptance/registration for 2026 (on university letterhead)
  • Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
  • Motivational letter explaining your interest in food science (500 words max)
  • Proof of financial need (e.g., household income statement, affidavits)
  • Recommendation letters from teachers or supervisors (optional but recommended)

Application Deadlines

The closing date for Matric applicants is 31 October 2025 and for undergraduate/postgraduate students is 30 January 2026. Late submission will result in the disqualification of your application.

Bursary Contact Details

You must use these only if you are experiencing problems submitting your application:

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