SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary

The SAAFoST Foundation Matriculant Bursary supports South African students pursuing Food Science and Technology at a tertiary institution. Funded by the South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation, this bursary covers tuition fees up to R60,000 per year, paid directly to the institution in two instalments, contingent on academic performance. Preference is given to academically strong matriculants with strong Mathematics (5+) and Physical Science (5+) grades, along with demonstrated potential and employment equity considerations. Applicants must be South African citizens with at least 3 years of residency in the country, enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree or diploma in Food Science and Technology. The bursary requires SAAFoST membership within the first three months of study and six-monthly progress reports, with potential repayment if studies are interrupted or grades fail.⁠​‌‌​​‌‌‌​‌‌​​​‌​​‌​​​​‌​​‌​​​​‌‌⁠

What it offers

• Financial support for tuition fees (up to R60,000 per year), paid directly to the institution.
• No stipend or living allowance provided.
• Membership in SAAFoST mandatory for the duration of studies.
• Repayment clause if studies are discontinued or grades are unsatisfactory.

Who can apply

This bursary is open to South African matriculants who have achieved at least a 5 in Mathematics and Physical Science (or equivalent) and are enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree or diploma in Food Science and Technology at a South African tertiary institution. Preference is given to those with strong academic merit and demonstrated potential.

What you'll do

Applicants must:

• Submit a personal statement (≤1 A4 page) outlining how their studies will benefit them and the scientific community.
• Provide a reference letter from someone who has known them for at least 3 years in an educational capacity.
• Register as SAAFoST members within the first three months of study.
• Submit six-monthly progress reports and exam results.

How to apply

1. Download and complete the application form (PDF or Word).
2. Submit required documents:
   • Passport-sized photograph.
   • Certified copies of ID, Grade 11 and Grade 12 results (with 5+ in Mathematics and Physical Science).
   • Personal statement (Part D).
   • Reference letter (Part D).
3. Email the completed application to mdo@saafost.org.za by 30 October 2026.

Good to know

• Deadline: 30 October 2026 (announced for 2026 cycle).
• Review period: November.
• Award announcement: December.
• No automatic award—SAAFoST reserves the right to not award bursaries.
• Repayment may apply if studies are interrupted or grades fail.
• Active SAAFoST membership is mandatory for the duration of studies.