SAAFoST Foundation Undergraduate Bursary 2027

SAAFoST Foundation Undergraduate Bursary 2027

The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation invites eligible undergraduate students to apply for the SAAFoST Foundation Undergraduate Bursary 2027.

This bursary supports students pursuing full-time undergraduate qualifications in Food Science and Food Technology at recognised South African tertiary institutions. Funding is awarded based on factors that include academic performance, employment equity and demonstrated potential.

About the SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary

The SAAFoST Foundation aims to develop the next generation of food scientists and technologists in South Africa. Its undergraduate bursary programme assists eligible students with tuition fees while they complete their qualifications.

Food Science and Food Technology are important fields that contribute to food safety, nutrition, food quality, product development, processing, preservation and innovation.

The bursary is intended for eligible students who are already pursuing undergraduate studies in the relevant fields. Applicants should read the official criteria and conditions before applying.

Fields of Study

Applicants must be studying towards a first undergraduate degree or diploma in one of the following related fields:

• Food Science
• Food Technology
• Qualifying undergraduate programmes in Food Science and Technology

The qualification must be offered by a South African tertiary institution, and applicants must be registered for full-time study.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the published eligibility requirements, including:

• Be enrolled for full-time undergraduate study towards a first degree or diploma in Food Science or Food Technology at a South African tertiary institution.
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident who has lived in South Africa for at least three years before applying.
• Have been a member of SAAFoST for at least 12 months before the application.
• Be able to complete the qualification within the prescribed period, or the additional period allowed under the programme's criteria.
• Submit a personal statement explaining how their education and training in Food Science or Food Technology will make a positive difference in their lives and in the scientific community.
• Provide a reference letter from someone at their tertiary institution who knows them in a learning capacity.

Academic achievement and demonstrated potential are considered during the selection process. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an award.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

The bursary provides financial assistance towards actual tuition fees charged by the tertiary institution, up to a maximum of R60,000 per year, subject to the programme's conditions and approval.

Payments are made directly to the tertiary institution in two instalments. Continued payment is subject to satisfactory academic progress and the applicable bursary conditions.

Applicants should not assume that accommodation, meals, transport, books or personal expenses are covered unless SAAFoST confirms this in writing.

Documents Required

Prepare the following documents for your application:

• A completed SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary application form.
• A head-and-shoulders passport-size photograph.
• A certified copy of your South African identity document or RSA passport.
• A certified copy of your most recent academic results.
• A personal statement as required by the application form.
• A reference letter from an appropriate person at your tertiary institution.
• Proof of registration at a tertiary institution for 2027.
• Your SAAFoST membership details, as requested on the application form.

Check the latest official application form carefully, as the Foundation may require additional information.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary page.
2. Read the eligibility criteria, funding conditions and application instructions.
3. Download the 2027 undergraduate bursary application form.
4. Complete all required sections and prepare the supporting documents.
5. Confirm the correct submission email address on the official SAAFoST website or application form.
6. Submit your completed application before the closing date.

Official application page: SAAFoST Foundation Undergraduate Bursary

Closing Date

Applications for the SAAFoST Foundation Undergraduate Bursary 2027 close on 29 January 2027, according to the official SAAFoST bursary page and 2027 application form.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents and submit their applications before the deadline.

Contact Details

Organisation: South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST)
Contact person: Membership Development Officer
Telephone: 071 870 2633
Website: www.saafost.org.za

Email: Confirm the correct application email using the official bursary page and the 2027 application form before submitting your documents.

Important Information

The SAAFoST Foundation reviews applications and reserves the right not to award a bursary. Successful recipients must comply with the bursary contract, academic progress requirements and reporting obligations.

Under the published conditions, the bursary may be suspended or converted into a repayable loan in certain circumstances, including interruption of studies without permission, failure to complete within the permitted period or failure of a year or semester. Applicants should read the official conditions carefully before accepting an award.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary 2027?

Eligible applicants are full-time undergraduate students studying Food Science or Food Technology at a South African tertiary institution who meet the citizenship or permanent-residency, residency and membership requirements.

How much funding is available?

The bursary provides tuition assistance of up to R60,000 per year, subject to the official terms and conditions.

Must I be a SAAFoST member?

Yes. The published criteria require applicants to have been SAAFoST members for at least 12 months before applying.

When is the closing date?

The published closing date for the 2027 undergraduate bursary is 29 January 2027.

Does meeting the requirements guarantee funding?

No. Applications are assessed by the SAAFoST Foundation, and funding is not guaranteed.