Macadamias South Africa NPC (SAMAC) has opened bursary applications for the 2026 academic year. SAMAC’s bursaries are aimed at academically strong South African students who need financial support and are studying in Agriculture (with a focus on crop production and horticulture) toward careers linked to the macadamia industry.
At a glance
- Sponsor/host: Macadamias South Africa NPC (SAMAC)
- Fields/level: Agriculture / Horticulture (undergraduate and postgraduate) – preference to macadamia-related focus
- Where to study: Recognised tertiary institutions in South Africa
- Closing date: 31 January 2026
About SAMAC
SAMAC is a commodity organisation for South Africa’s macadamia industry. The organisation’s bursary and skills-development initiatives form part of its broader work to support growth and capability across the macadamia value chain.
Fields of study (as reflected on SAMAC’s bursary information and forms)
SAMAC’s bursary information indicates support for Agriculture, with a specific focus on crop production and horticulture courses. The undergraduate application form includes options such as:
- BSc Forestry and Wood Science
- BSc Entomology
- BSc Food Science
- BSc Plant Pathology
- BSc Viticulture and Oenology
- BSc Bioresource Engineering (Agricultural Engineering)
- Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc)
- National Diploma: Food Technology
- National Diploma: Forestry
- Other (specify on the form)
For postgraduate study, SAMAC’s general bursary policy indicates postgraduate work should be in a field that benefits the macadamia industry (examples include Entomology, Microbiology, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Physiology, Soil Science and Crop Protection).
Eligibility (high level)
- South African citizen.
- Completed Matric (or currently in Matric) and accepted/registered at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
- Strong academic performance and proven financial need (assessed from your submission).
- Preference is indicated for applicants with a link to the macadamia industry (for example, where a family member works in the industry).
What it covers
SAMAC’s general bursary policy states bursary funding can be used towards tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, and student accommodation. Funding is subject to review, approval, and available funds.
Required documents
Prepare clear, certified copies (where required) and follow the checklist in the SAMAC application form. Supporting documents typically include:
- Applicant ID document
- Academic records (Matric results or latest transcripts)
- Proof of tertiary admission/acceptance (or registration, where applicable)
- Proof of household income (parents/guardians)
- Additional supporting documents (where applicable), such as proof of unemployment or SASSA confirmation
- Postgraduate applicants: the form requests a short research proposal
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting after the closing date (late applications are not considered).
- Leaving out required documents (especially proof of income and academic records).
- Uploading unreadable scans or uncertified copies where certification is required.
- Not using the prescribed application form for your study level (undergraduate vs postgraduate).
Closing date
31 January 2026 (applications must be received by this date to be considered).
How to apply
- Download the relevant SAMAC application form (undergraduate or postgraduate) and read the bursary policy.
- Complete the form fully and attach all required supporting documents.
- Email your application and documents to the addresses listed by SAMAC: juandre@samac.org.za or runal@samac.org.za.