South Africa’s future food security depends on skilled crop scientists — and funding remains one of the biggest barriers for students entering this field. The South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) Bursary 2026 is now open, offering financial support to undergraduate and postgraduate students studying crop production-related degrees at South African universities.
If you’re pursuing Crop Science or Agronomy and need help covering study costs in 2026, this bursary could make a meaningful difference.
Why the SASCP Bursary Matters Right Now
Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most critical sectors, especially as climate change, soil degradation, and food insecurity place growing pressure on crop production systems. At the same time, many capable students struggle to continue their studies due to financial constraints.
The SASCP bursary is designed to support students who are already committed to crop production studies — helping them stay on track while contributing to long-term agricultural sustainability in South Africa.
Rather than funding large numbers of students superficially, SASCP focuses on targeted, discipline-specific support, reinforcing skills that the country genuinely needs.
Who Is Behind the SASCP Bursary?
The South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) was founded in 1971 in Pretoria by a group of leading agricultural scientists. Since its establishment, the organisation has played a key role in promoting:
- Crop science research
- Soil and environmental management
- Training and technology transfer
- Sustainable agricultural practices
Many SASCP members are actively involved in research on maize, oilseeds, small grains, and protein crops, making the society deeply connected to real-world agricultural challenges.
This background gives the bursary programme strong credibility — it is shaped by professionals who understand both academic demands and industry realities.
Fields of Study Covered by the SASCP Bursary
The SASCP bursary is open to students studying within the broad field of Crop Production, including:
- Crop Science
- Agronomy
- Related crop production disciplines
Both undergraduate and postgraduate students may apply, provided their studies are directly linked to crop production.
Importantly, undergraduate applicants must have completed at least their first year of study, ensuring that funding goes to students who are already established in their academic path.
How Much Is the SASCP Bursary Worth?
The bursary provides once-off financial assistance, with funding levels based on the level of study:
- Undergraduate students: R15,000
- MSc students: R20,000
- PhD students: R25,000
While this may not cover full tuition, it can significantly ease the burden of registration fees, research costs, fieldwork expenses, or study materials — particularly for postgraduate students.
Eligibility Requirements You Must Meet
To be considered for the SASCP Bursary 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Have completed Matric
- Be registered for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies
- Be studying Crop Production, Crop Science, Agronomy, or a related field
- Have completed the first year of study (for undergraduate applicants)
- Be enrolled at a recognised South African university
Applications that do not meet these requirements are unlikely to be considered, so it’s important to check eligibility carefully before applying.
How to Apply for the SASCP Bursary 2026
Applications must be completed online via the official SASCP bursary application platform.
When completing the application form, applicants must enter “www.dailyfeed.co.za” in the field asking how they heard about the bursary.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear copies of the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Full academic record
- Proof of tertiary registration
- Reference letters from a study leader or faculty dean
- A motivational letter explaining why you should be awarded the bursary
Incomplete applications may be disqualified, so double-check that all documents are included.
Submission Method
Completed applications and documents must be submitted electronically to one of the following email addresses:
Use the email subject line: “SASCP Bursary 2026”
Closing Date and Contact Details
- Closing date: 15 March 2026
- Late applications will not be accepted.
For bursary-related enquiries, contact:
Lisa Smorenburg
Email: li*************@*************ov.za
Applicants are advised not to contact SASCP if the bursary has already closed.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the SASCP bursary renewable?
No, the bursary is awarded as a once-off payment for the 2026 academic year.
Can first-year students apply?
No. Undergraduate applicants must have completed at least one year of study.
Does the bursary cover all study costs?
No. It provides partial financial support, not full funding.
Can postgraduate research students apply?
Yes. Both MSc and PhD students in crop production-related fields are eligible.
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