SAAFoST Bursary 2027
SAAFoST Bursary 2027 applications are now open for academically deserving South African matriculants who want to pursue careers in Food Science and Food Technology.
The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation is offering educational financial assistance to qualifying students planning to enrol in full-time undergraduate studies at recognised South African tertiary institutions.
Successful applicants may receive up to R60,000 per academic year toward actual tuition fees, subject to the Foundation’s conditions.
This opportunity is particularly relevant to Grade 12 learners who perform well in Mathematics and Physical Science and are interested in food production, product development, food quality and the science behind the food industry.
Applications close on 30 October 2026.
SAAFoST Bursary 2027: Application Details
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary |
| Organisation | SAAFoST Foundation |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Country | South Africa |
| Study fields | Food Science and Food Technology |
| Funding | Up to R60,000 per annum |
| Study level | First undergraduate degree or diploma |
| Study mode | Full-time |
| Application method | Download form and email |
| Closing date | 30 October 2026 |
| Selection period | November 2026 |
| Award announcements | December 2026 |
What Is the SAAFoST Bursary 2027?
The SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary is an educational funding programme designed to support promising South African learners entering the fields of Food Science and Food Technology.
The programme is awarded based on academic merit, employment equity considerations and demonstrated potential.
Food Science and Food Technology are important disciplines that contribute to the development of safe, nutritious and high-quality food products.
Students pursuing these qualifications may eventually work in food manufacturing, quality assurance, food safety, laboratory testing, research, product development and related industries.
The Foundation aims to support academically capable learners as they begin their tertiary education in these specialised fields.
How Much Does the SAAFoST Bursary 2027 Cover?
The bursary provides financial assistance toward actual tuition fees charged by an eligible tertiary institution.
The maximum award is R60,000 per academic year.
Funding is paid directly to the institution rather than into the student’s personal bank account.
Payments are made in two instalments, with the second instalment dependent on satisfactory first-semester academic results.
The official bursary information does not guarantee payment for accommodation, meals, transport, laptops or other living expenses.
Applicants should therefore establish whether they will require additional funding to cover costs outside tuition.
Who Qualifies for the SAAFoST Bursary 2027?
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria published by the Foundation.
1. South African Citizenship
Applicants must be South African citizens who have resided in South Africa for at least three years before applying.
2. Academic Performance
Applicants must have achieved an achievement rating of at least 5 in both Mathematics and Physical Science.
This generally corresponds to marks of 60–69% or higher in each subject.
Life Sciences is recommended but is not listed as an additional compulsory subject.
3. Approved Study Programme
Applicants must intend to enrol in full-time undergraduate studies toward a first degree or diploma in Food Science or Food Technology.
The programme must be offered by a South African tertiary institution.
4. Academic Potential
Preference is given to matriculants with strong academic performance or who demonstrate the potential to succeed.
5. Study Duration
Successful recipients are expected to complete their qualifications within the prescribed study period.
The Foundation identifies maximum funding periods that include:
- Undergraduate degrees up to BSc Honours: four years.
- BTech degrees: five years.
- Diplomas: four years.
These periods remain subject to the programme’s conditions and the institution’s prescribed qualification duration.
Which Courses Can You Study with SAAFoST Bursary 2027?
The SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary focuses on qualifications in Food Science and Food Technology.
Depending on the qualifications available at the chosen institution, eligible study programmes may include:
- Bachelor of Science in Food Science.
- Food Technology diplomas.
- Recognised undergraduate qualifications directly focused on Food Science or Food Technology.
Applicants must verify the eligibility of their intended course with the Foundation.
Related programmes such as general nutrition, hospitality, culinary arts or agricultural studies should not automatically be assumed to qualify unless the Foundation confirms that they are eligible.
Documents Required for SAAFoST Bursary 2027
Applicants must prepare all required supporting documents before submitting their applications.
The official checklist includes:
1. Passport-size photograph
Provide a recent head-and-shoulders photograph of yourself.
2. Certified identity document
Attach a certified copy of your South African identity document or valid South African passport.
3. Grade 11 academic results
Submit certified copies of your final Grade 11 examination results.
4. Latest Grade 12 academic results
Applicants must also submit certified copies of their most recent Grade 12 examination results.
5. Personal statement
Prepare a written personal statement explaining how studying Food Science or Food Technology will positively influence your life and contribute to the scientific community.
The statement must not exceed one A4 page.
6. Reference letter
A reference letter must be written by someone who has known you in a learning or educational capacity for at least three years.
This could be an appropriate teacher or educator who can comment on your character, commitment and academic potential.
All documents should be complete and clearly readable.
How to Apply for SAAFoST Bursary 2027
The application process requires applicants to download and complete the official form.
Step 1: Visit the official bursary website
Open:
Step 2: Download the application form
The Foundation provides the application form in PDF and Microsoft Word formats.
Select the version you can complete accurately.
Step 3: Read the bursary conditions
Carefully review the eligibility requirements, application checklist and contractual obligations.
Step 4: Complete the application form
Provide all requested personal details, academic information and information about your intended tertiary qualification.
Complete every relevant section.
Step 5: Attach supporting documents
Ensure the application includes your photograph, certified identity document, Grade 11 and Grade 12 results, personal statement and reference letter.
Step 6: Email your completed application
Send the complete application to the SAAFoST Membership Development Officer.
Application email: mdo@saafost.org.za
Use a clear subject line, such as:
SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary 2027 Application – Full Name
Step 7: Submit before the deadline
Email your complete application before 30 October 2026.
Save a copy of your email and all submitted documents.
Official SAAFoST Bursary 2027 Application Link
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL APPLICATION FORM:
Email completed applications to:
Applicants should not send applications to unrelated websites or individuals claiming to guarantee funding.
Important SAAFoST Bursary 2027 Conditions
Successful applicants must comply with the terms established by the Foundation.
These include maintaining satisfactory academic progress and completing the chosen qualification within the prescribed period.
Recipients must also register as SAAFoST members within the first three months of registering at their tertiary institution and remain active members during their studies.
Furthermore, students must submit progress reports and examination results every six months.
A particularly important condition is that the Foundation may convert a bursary into a repayable loan under specified circumstances, such as unauthorised interruption of studies, failure to complete the qualification within the prescribed period or academic failure.
Applicants should read these conditions carefully before accepting an award.
When Will SAAFoST Bursary 2027 Results Be Announced?
According to the Foundation’s published application information:
- Applications close in October 2026.
- Applications are reviewed during November 2026.
- Bursary awards are announced during December 2026.
Selection is not automatic, and the Foundation reserves the right not to award funding.
Applicants should monitor the email address supplied on their application forms.
Careers in Food Science and Food Technology
Students completing relevant qualifications may pursue career opportunities in several sectors.
Food Scientist
Food scientists study the physical, chemical and biological properties of food and investigate ways to improve its safety, quality and nutritional characteristics.
Food Technologist
Food technologists help develop, process, test and improve food products used by consumers.
Quality Assurance Specialist
These professionals help ensure that food products comply with quality standards, safety procedures and industry requirements.
Food Safety Professional
Food safety specialists identify and manage potential contamination and other hazards throughout food production and handling.
Product Development Technologist
Product development professionals research and develop new food products and improve existing formulations.
The specific career opportunities available depend on qualifications, experience and employer requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About SAAFoST Bursary 2027
Is the SAAFoST Bursary 2027 open?
Yes. The official SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary webpage lists applications closing on 30 October 2026.
How much funding is available?
Successful applicants may receive up to R60,000 per academic year toward actual tuition fees.
Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. The matriculant bursary is intended for qualifying learners entering eligible full-time undergraduate studies.
What Mathematics mark is required?
Applicants must have achieved at least an achievement rating of 5 in Mathematics and Physical Science.
Does SAAFoST cover accommodation?
The official matriculant bursary information specifies tuition funding. It does not guarantee accommodation or living allowances.
Is a personal statement compulsory?
Yes. Applicants must include a personal statement of no more than one A4 page.
Can I apply online?
The Foundation instructs applicants to download and complete the application form, then email the completed application and supporting documents.
When will successful applicants be announced?
The Foundation lists December 2026 as the award announcement period.
Contact Details For SAAFoST Bursary 2027
Organisation: SAAFoST Foundation
Contact: Membership Development Officer
Telephone: 073 339 0870
Email: mdo@saafost.org.za
Official website: https://www.saafost.org.za/
SAAFoST Bursary 2027
The SAAFoST Bursary 2027 provides an opportunity for academically deserving South African matriculants interested in Food Science and Food Technology to receive tuition funding of up to R60,000 annually.
With the application deadline approaching, eligible learners should immediately review the requirements, complete the application form and prepare the required documents.
Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Official Application: https://www.saafost.org.za/mysaafost/bursaries/saafost-matriculant-bursary/
Application Email: mdo@saafost.org.za
Disclaimer
ZA Vacancies is an independent employment and educational opportunities website. We are not affiliated with the SAAFoST Foundation and do not administer, approve or guarantee bursary applications.
Applicants must verify the latest requirements and closing dates using the official SAAFoST website before applying.
Source: South African Association for Food Science and Technology Foundation.
Article updated: 29 October 2026.
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Last Updated: October 29, 2026