For students building a future in horticulture or landscaping, second year can feel financially heavier than the first. The SANA Tom Arnold Bursary Fund 2026 is now open — offering targeted support for students who have successfully completed their first-year modules and are continuing their studies.
With the 31 March 2026 closing date approaching, eligible students should prepare their documents early to avoid last-minute rejection.
About SANA and the Tom Arnold Bursary Fund
The South African Nursery Association (SANA) represents nurseries and businesses within South Africa’s green industry. From plant production to landscaping services, the association plays a role in strengthening professional standards and industry development.
Through the Tom Arnold Bursary Fund, SANA supports students who are serious about building careers in horticulture and landscaping.
This is not a general bursary open to all fields. It is focused, practical and aligned with the realities of the green sector.
And that focus matters.
Horticulture and landscaping are often overlooked compared to engineering or finance, yet they are essential to urban development, environmental management and commercial property design across South Africa.
Who the SANA Tom Arnold Bursary Fund 2026 Is For
The bursary is open to students who:
- Are studying Horticulture or Landscaping
- Have successfully completed and passed all first-year modules
- Have achieved an average of over 60%
- Submit a motivation letter of at least 150 words (as required in the application form)
This means first-year students cannot apply yet. You must have already progressed beyond your first year.
The bursary is aimed at students who have demonstrated commitment and academic capability. In other words, this fund supports continuation — not entry-level study.
What the Bursary Covers — and What It Doesn’t
The SANA Tom Arnold Bursary Fund 2026 provides support for:
- Study fees for the 2026 academic year
It does not cover:
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Books or allowances
- Practical training costs
This is important to understand clearly.
The bursary can reduce tuition pressure, but students will still need to plan for living costs and other academic expenses. For many horticulture students who require tools, fieldwork gear or practical training materials, budgeting remains necessary.
Transparency around what is not covered helps avoid disappointment later.
Documents You Must Prepare Carefully
Incomplete applications may be rejected. SANA specifically notes that all checklist items must be completed.
You will need:
- Completed 2026 SANA Bursary Application Form
- Motivation letter (minimum 150 words, answering questions in the form)
- Photograph (portrait, student card photo or selfie)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Full academic record
- Certificates of previous studies (if applicable)
- Proof of tertiary registration for 2026 (on institution letterhead)
- Institution banking details (on institution letterhead)
- Subject list for the new academic year (including cost per subject)
That final requirement — subject list with cost per subject — often catches students off guard. Make sure your institution provides a detailed breakdown on official letterhead.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
From past bursary trends across sectors, applications are often declined due to avoidable errors.
For this bursary, common mistakes include:
- Submitting a short or generic motivation letter
- Not answering the specific questions in the application form
- Forgetting certified copies
- Leaving sections blank
- Submitting after the closing date
A 150-word motivation letter may seem simple, but it needs to reflect genuine commitment to horticulture or landscaping. Generic statements like “I have always loved plants” are unlikely to stand out.
Instead, students could briefly mention:
- Practical experience (nursery work, landscaping projects, community gardens)
- Long-term career goals
- How their studies align with South Africa’s environmental or urban development needs
Authenticity matters more than exaggeration.
Why This Bursary Matters in 2026
South Africa’s green industry continues to grow, especially in:
- Commercial landscaping
- Eco-estate developments
- Municipal greening projects
- Indigenous plant nurseries
- Environmental rehabilitation initiatives
Horticulture is no longer limited to traditional gardening. It intersects with sustainability, urban planning and climate resilience.
However, it remains a field where funding opportunities are fewer compared to engineering or finance.
The SANA Tom Arnold Bursary Fund 2026 helps close that gap — even if partially.
It may not cover every cost, but it can reduce tuition stress and allow students to focus more on developing technical expertise.
How to Apply Before 31 March 2026
To apply:
- Complete the official 2026 SANA Bursary Application Form.
- Compile all required supporting documents.
- Submit your full application via email to: ay****@*****co.za
Closing date: 31 March 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Because supporting documents must be on institutional letterhead, it’s wise to request them early.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the SANA Tom Arnold Bursary Fund 2026?
Students studying Horticulture or Landscaping who have passed all first-year modules with an average above 60%.
Does it cover accommodation?
No. It covers study fees only.
Can first-year students apply?
No. You must have completed first-year modules successfully.
What is the closing date?
31 March 2026.
How do I apply?
Submit the completed application form and supporting documents via email to ay****@*****co.za.
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