Matric learners planning to study Food Science or Food Technology can apply for the SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary 2027. This opportunity is for full-time study and is aimed at learners who show academic merit, potential and a clear interest in entering the food-science sector.
At a glance
Sponsor/host: SAAFoST Foundation
Opportunity type: Matriculant bursary for first-year tertiary study
Who it’s for: Matric learners entering full-time Food Science / Food Technology study
Location: South African tertiary institutions
Study field: Food Science and Technology
Closing date: 30 October 2026
Last verified: 20 May 2026
High-value notes (read this first)
This bursary is for learners moving from school into full-time tertiary Food Science / Food Technology study. You need at least an achievement rating of 5 in both Mathematics and Physical Science, and Life Sciences is recommended.
Successful recipients must register as SAAFoST members within the first three months of tertiary registration and remain active members for the duration of study. The bursary may be converted into a repayable loan if the student interrupts studies, changes course without permission, fails a year or semester, or does not complete within the required period.
About the sponsor
SAAFoST is the South African Association for Food Science and Technology, serving food scientists, technologists and other professionals in the food and allied industries. The Foundation bursary programme helps develop future talent for Food Science and Food Technology in South Africa.
Source Link: SAAFoST
What it covers
The bursary provides financial assistance for actual tuition fees charged by the tertiary institution, up to a maximum of R40,000 per year. Payment is made directly to the tertiary institution in two instalments, with the second instalment dependent on satisfactory first-semester results.
Eligibility
- Must be applying for full-time undergraduate study in Food Science and Technology
- Must meet admission requirements for a first degree or diploma at a South African tertiary institution
- Must have at least Achievement Rating 5 / 60–69% in both Mathematics and Physical Science
- Life Sciences is recommended
- Must be a South African citizen who has been resident in South Africa for at least 3 years before applying
- Must provide a personal statement and a reference from someone who has known the applicant in a learning capacity for at least 3 years
Documents to prepare
- Head-and-shoulders passport-size photograph
- Certified copy of ID book or RSA passport
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results and latest Grade 12 results
- Personal statement
- Reference letter
Closing date
30 October 2026.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying for a field outside Food Science and Technology
- Submitting without Mathematics and Physical Science results
- Leaving out the personal statement or reference letter
- Forgetting that SAAFoST membership is required after tertiary registration
- Assuming the bursary automatically renews without satisfactory academic progress
How this opportunity was verified
Verified against SAAFoST’s current Matriculant Bursary page and 2027 application form, including the closing date, tuition-support value, eligibility rules, required documents and submission email.
How to apply
- Download the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary application form.
- Complete the form and attach the required school results, ID/passport copy, statement and reference.
- Email the completed application to info@saafost.org.za.
- Submit before the closing date.