SANSOR is offering bursary funding to postgraduate students conducting scientific research that supports the South African seed industry.

Funding is available to qualifying students registered for Honours, Master’s or Doctoral studies at recognised tertiary institutions in South Africa.

Bursaries are awarded primarily on academic merit and are granted for one academic year at a time.

Eligible Qualifications

The SANSOR bursary is intended for students pursuing postgraduate studies in areas that are relevant to the South African seed industry.

Funding is available towards:

• Honours degrees
• Master’s degrees
• Doctoral degrees / PhD

Applicants must have already completed an undergraduate qualification before applying.

Fields of Study

SANSOR considers postgraduate research across a range of disciplines that can contribute to the development and advancement of the seed sector. Relevant fields include:

• Agronomy
• Biotechnology
• Entomology
• Genetics
• Horticulture
• Molecular Plant Biology
• Pasture Science
• Plant Breeding
• Plant Pathology
• Plant Physiology

The applicant’s chosen research area or study subject should align with SANSOR’s vision and mission while making a meaningful contribution to the seed industry.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be South African citizens by birth.
• Have successfully completed an undergraduate degree.
• Be registered, or intending to register, for an Honours, Master’s or Doctoral qualification in 2027.
• Be enrolled at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution.
• Conduct studies or research that is relevant to the seed industry.
• Ensure that their research topic or study area aligns with SANSOR’s vision and mission.
• Not be receiving funding from another government source.

Applicants who receive any form of government funding are required to disclose this information to SANSOR.

Bursary Selection and Duration

SANSOR awards bursaries according to academic merit. Funding is initially provided for one academic year at a time.

Students who wish to receive support beyond the initial year may be considered for further funding, provided that they continue to achieve satisfactory academic results.

Payment of Bursary Funds

Successful applicants receive their bursary payments directly into their university student account.

The funding is paid in two separate instalments.

The available information does not confirm the specific monetary value of the bursary.

Additional Opportunities for Recipients

The bursary offers more than financial assistance. Successful students may also gain valuable exposure to the seed industry through opportunities such as:

• Employment-skills workshops.
• Educational visits and field trips to seed companies.
• Greater insight into the South African seed sector.
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals.
• Development of practical career skills and industry knowledge.

These opportunities can help students gain a better understanding of potential career paths within the seed industry.

Academic Requirements for Continued Funding

Bursary support is reviewed on an ongoing basis, with further funding dependent on the student maintaining satisfactory academic performance.

Students who receive the bursary should therefore ensure that they continue to meet SANSOR’s required academic standards throughout their studies.

Restriction on Government Funding

Applicants may not hold other government-funded bursaries or financial support while receiving the SANSOR bursary.

Any government funding received by the applicant must be declared to SANSOR during the application process.

Documents Required for Application

Applicants must submit clear copies of the relevant supporting documentation, including:

• ID document.
• Degree certificate, where applicable.
• Academic transcripts from previously completed studies.
• Academic transcripts for current studies.

Missing compulsory documentation may result in the application being disqualified.

How to Apply for SANSOR Bursary Programme 2027

Applications must be submitted online.

Click here to apply for SANSOR Bursary Programme 2027

Applicants should complete the online application form and upload all required supporting documentation before submitting their application.

Bursary Application Closing Date

Applications close on:

30 September 2026