SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026 Now Open: Funding Agriculture and Horticulture Students
South Africa’s macadamia industry is one of the country’s fastest-growing agricultural sectors, driving job creation, exports, and innovation across rural economies. To support the future skills pipeline of this vital industry, Macadamias South Africa NPC (SAMAC) has officially opened applications for its SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026.
This bursary is aimed at talented South African students who want to study agriculture or horticulture, with strong preference given to macadamia-related fields. Applications close on 31 January 2026.
SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026: Key Information
- Bursary Name: SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026
- Organisation: Macadamias South Africa NPC (SAMAC)
- Who Can Apply: South African students (Matric learners or tertiary students)
- Fields of Study: Agriculture and Horticulture (macadamia-related fields preferred)
- Study Level: Matric, undergraduate, and postgraduate
- Funding Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Student accommodation
- Closing Date: 31 January 2026
- Application Method: Email submission
- Application Email Addresses:
What the SAMAC Bursary Covers
SAMAC has made it clear that this bursary is designed to support students with academic potential but limited financial resources, allowing them to focus fully on their studies.
The bursary may cover:
1) Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
2) Prescribed Textbooks
Agricultural and science-based textbooks can be costly, especially in specialised fields. SAMAC support helps reduce this burden.
3) Student Accommodation
Accommodation support is especially important for students who need to relocate to pursue their studies.
This funding structure is intended to remove the most common financial barriers faced by agriculture students.
Who Should Apply for the SAMAC Bursary?
The bursary is open to students studying or intending to study within:
Opportunities & Resources:
- Agricultural faculties, or
- Horticultural faculties
Preference is given to qualifications and study areas that have a direct link to the macadamia industry.
SAMAC is particularly interested in students who are:
- Academically strong
- Passionate about agriculture
- Motivated to contribute to South Africa’s agricultural sector
- In genuine financial need
The organisation also notes that bursary awards will reflect the demographics of South Africa, supporting inclusivity and transformation within the agricultural industry.
Additional Preference Consideration
SAMAC gives extra preference to applicants whose family members are employed in the macadamia industry.
If your parents or guardians work in:
- Macadamia farming
- Processing facilities
- Agricultural supply chains
- Industry-related services
you should clearly state this in your application and motivation letter.
Minimum Requirements (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
1) South African Citizenship
Only South African citizens may apply.
2) Matric Status
You must either:
- Have completed Matric, or
- Be currently in Matric
3) Agriculture-Related Studies
You must be studying or intending to study:
- A degree, or
- A diploma
in agriculture-related fields.
4) Recognised Institution
You must be:
- Registered at, or
- Accepted to study at
a recognised South African tertiary institution.
5) Strong Academic Performance
SAMAC looks for students who demonstrate commitment and academic ability.
6) Proven Financial Need
Applicants must show that they require financial support to continue or begin their studies.
Postgraduate Fields Supported
Postgraduate applicants are welcome, provided their field of study benefits the macadamia industry.
Supported fields include (but are not limited to):
- Entomology
- Microbiology
- Plant Science
- Plant Pathology
- Crop Science
- Agronomy
- Plant Physiology
- Soil Science
- Crop Protection
Your postgraduate research or coursework must clearly demonstrate relevance to agriculture and macadamia production.
How to Apply for the SAMAC Bursary 2026
Step 1: Complete the Official Application Form
SAMAC requires applicants to complete their prescribed bursary application form.
If you do not yet have the form, request it using the contact email addresses provided.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Although the advert does not list every document in detail, applicants are advised to submit a strong standard bursary application pack, including:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate or latest Matric results
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter
- Full academic record (for current students)
- Updated CV
- Motivational letter
- Proof of household income or financial need (where available)
- Reference letters (optional but beneficial)
Step 3: Submit Your Application by Email
Email your completed application form and supporting documents to:
Ensure all documents are clear, readable, and correctly attached.
DOWNLOAD THE SAMAC UNDERGRADUATE BURSARY APPLICATION FORM HERE
DOWNLOAD THE SAMAC POSTGRADUATE BURSARY APPLICATION FORM HERE
Step 4: Apply Before the Closing Date
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Applications received after this date may not be considered.
Why the SAMAC Bursary Is Important
The macadamia industry plays a growing role in South Africa’s agricultural economy. By funding students today, SAMAC is investing in:
- Sustainable agricultural development
- Improved crop management and plant health
- Research and innovation
- Skills development in rural communities
For students passionate about agriculture, this bursary offers both financial support and industry relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Matric learners apply?
Yes. Both current and completed Matric learners may apply.
Do I need to study macadamias specifically?
Not necessarily, but macadamia-related fields are given preference.
Are postgraduate students eligible?
Yes, if the field of study benefits the macadamia industry.
Is financial need important?
Yes. SAMAC prioritises students with genuine financial need.
How do I get the application form?
Request it via email from the SAMAC contacts listed above.
Final Advice to Applicants
Submit a complete, well-motivated application that clearly explains your academic goals, financial need, and interest in agriculture. If your studies connect to the macadamia industry, make that link obvious
