Agricultural Research Council
Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary
Closes
17 June 2026
Value
Research & publication funding
Level
Master's and PhD
For
Unemployed SA citizens (18-35)
Sector
Agriculture & Research
Type
Postgraduate bursary
About this bursary
The Agricultural Research Council offers postgraduate funding for students pursuing Master's and PhD qualifications in agricultural sciences and related socio-economic disciplines. For the 2027 academic year, 14 bursaries are available, divided equally between Master's and Doctoral candidates.
This initiative aims to build scientific research capacity within South Africa. Selected recipients gain access to specialized laboratory facilities, expert co-supervision, and direct mentorship from experienced researchers.
Funding supports up to three years for a Master's degree and up to five years for a PhD program. Applicants must be unemployed citizens under 35 years old.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- Applicants must be South African citizens between 18 and 35 years of age who are currently unemployed.
- Master's applicants need an Honours degree in an eligible agricultural or related field.
- Doctoral applicants require a Master's or MSc qualification in a relevant discipline.
- Candidates must be accepted or registered at a public South African university.
- You may not hold other bursary funding or NSFAS concurrently.
- Preference is given to candidates from designated demographic groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
You do not qualify if
- Applicants currently employed or older than 35 years.
- Non-South African citizens.
- Students receiving NSFAS or alternative bursary funding.
- Applicants who have not completed the required prerequisite Honours or Master's qualification.
Documents you need to submit
- Cover letter
- Comprehensive curriculum vitae
- Certified copy of identity document
- Driver's licence
- Certified copies of completed academic qualification certificates
- SAQA evaluation report if holding foreign qualifications
- Proof of university registration or official acceptance letter on institutional letterhead
- Contact details for three professional or academic referees
Ensure all documents are clearly legible and certified.
How to apply
- 1Visit the official recruitment portal for the ARC postgraduate bursary program.
- 2Select the correct reference link for your qualification level, using reference ARC-925 for Master's or ARC-926 for PhD applications.
- 3Complete all required online registration forms and personal details.
- 4Indicate how you heard about the funding opportunity when prompted.
- 5Upload all mandatory supporting documents before the closing date.
Applications must be submitted online before the closing deadline.