Hey future agricultural leaders! Ready to plant the seeds for an amazing career in agriculture? Well, the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is back with their incredible Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year, and it’s your chance to get fully funded!
If you’re passionate about making a difference in the agricultural sector and live in South Africa, especially the Eastern Cape, this bursary could be exactly what you need to kickstart your dreams. They’re looking to support bright minds in critical fields like Agricultural Engineering and Veterinary Technology, helping you gain the skills to contribute to the province’s growth. Plus, it covers almost everything!
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Bursary is a fantastic opportunity designed to empower ambitious young South Africans, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, by providing comprehensive financial support for their tertiary education. This programme focuses on developing scarce skills crucial for the province’s agricultural advancement, ensuring you graduate debt-free and ready to contribute to a vital sector.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this game-changing bursary, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements. Make sure you tick all these boxes before applying:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric / NCV.
- Must have completed the following subjects in Matric:
- For Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering: Mathematics and Physical Science.
- For Veterinary Technology: Life Sciences, Physical Science, and Mathematics.
- Must be studying or intending to study towards one of the qualifications listed above.
- Must be studying or intending to study at a registered Higher Education Institution in South Africa.
- Must be unemployed.
- Must be financially needy, with:
- A total household income not exceeding R350 000 per annum, OR
- Not more than R600 000 if living with a disability.
- Preference will be given to youth residing in the Eastern Cape, who are unemployed and from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. However, students from outside the province may also apply.
Heads Up! If you’re successful, you’ll commit to serving the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture for a period equal to the years you received the bursary. It’s a great way to gain experience and give back!
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is super generous and aims to remove financial barriers, covering almost everything you’ll need for your studies. Get ready for:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed textbooks
Just a heads-up: This bursary does not cover any historical debt or outstanding fees, so make sure your academic record is clear!
How to Apply?
Ready to take the plunge? Applying for this bursary is straightforward, but make sure you follow every step carefully. Incomplete applications won’t be considered, so double-check everything!
Step 1: Get the Form! Download the official application form here:
Download EC Department of Agriculture Bursary Application Form 2026 (PDF)
Step 2: Gather Your Docs! You’ll need certified copies of these supporting documents (less than 3 months old):
- South African ID document
- Latest Matric / NCV results (if currently in Matric) or Matric / NCV certificate (if already completed)
- Full academic record, if currently studying at tertiary level
- Proof of admission / provisional admission / registration from a recognised higher education institution
- Proof of residence from a local municipality (not older than 3 months)
- Proof of combined household income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, proof of social grant if applicable)
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents (certified copies)
- Proof of other bursaries or sponsorships, if applicable
- Relevant medical documentation if you have a disability.
Step 3: Send it In! Email your completed form and all certified documents to:
📧 [email protected]
Important: Use “DOA Bursary 2026” as your email subject line.
Heads Up! Applications sent via fax or hand delivery won’t be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, so keep an eye on your inbox!
If you’re ready to cultivate your future in agriculture with a solid foundation, this Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Bursary for 2026 is calling your name! Don’t let this incredible chance pass you by. Get your application in before 10 November 2025, and remember to explore even more awesome funding opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
