Home Bursaries Citrus Academy Bursary
Open · Closes 18 Sep 2026

Citrus Academy NPC

Citrus Academy Bursary

Closes

18 September 2026

Value

Partial support

Level

2nd year to Postgraduate

For

SA, Zimbabwean, Swazi citizens

Sector

Agriculture

Type

Partial bursary

About this bursary

The Citrus Academy Bursary Fund assists students pursuing qualifications linked to citrus production, management, and research. Established by the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, the non-profit organization manages one of the largest agricultural study funds in the country.

This bursary scheme addresses technical skill shortages in the fruit industry. Preference is given to female applicants, candidates living with disabilities, and individuals from historically disadvantaged backgrounds who plan to build careers in citrus enterprise.

Funding is partial rather than full, meaning students may need to secure extra financial help. Recipients must sign an agreement promising to maintain sound academic results and work within the local citrus sector after completing their studies.

Obligation

One year of employment in the citrus industry for every year of bursary funding received.

Courses of study covered

Agriculture
Agricultural Economics
Agricultural Engineering
Agricultural Management
Entomology
Horticulture
Industrial Engineering
Plant Pathology
Plant Production
Mechanical Engineering
Microbiology
Soil Science

What the bursary covers

Partial contribution toward university tuition fees
Prescribed books and study materials
On-campus accommodation support
Meal allowances
Postgraduate research project costs
General study-related expenses

Who can apply

You qualify if

  • Applicants must hold citizenship in South Africa, Zimbabwe, or Eswatini.
  • You need to have completed matric and be enrolled at an accredited public tertiary institution in South Africa.
  • Funding is open to students entering their second year or higher in 2027, as well as postgraduate candidates.
  • Your studies must directly relate to citrus production, research, or enterprise.
  • Selection prioritises financial need, academic record, demographic background, and interest in the citrus industry.

You do not qualify if

  • First-year undergraduate students are not eligible.
  • Citizens of countries outside South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini cannot apply.
  • Students pursuing qualifications outside citrus-related disciplines will be rejected.
  • Studies at unaccredited or non-South African institutions are not supported.

Documents you need to submit

  • Certified copy of South African identity document, or passport for foreign citizens
  • Certified copy of Matric certificate
  • Certified copy of complete academic transcript from your university or college
  • Motivational essay under 500 words detailing your interest in the citrus industry
  • Postgraduate research outline and supervisor details where applicable

Ensure all uploaded document copies are clearly legible and certified.

How to apply

  1. 1
    Visit the Citrus Communities web portal to create your user account.
  2. 2
    Log in and complete the electronic application form.
  3. 3
    Indicate where you first heard about the Citrus Academy bursary opportunity.
  4. 4
    Upload clear, certified copies of your identification and academic transcripts.
  5. 5
    Attach your 500-word motivational essay explaining your career goals.
  6. 6
    Postgraduate applicants must submit their research outline and supervisor name.
  7. 7
    Check all entries and submit your file online before the closing date.

Apply before the deadline to ensure your application enters the scoring process.

How you are selected

1
Submissions undergo evaluation through a weighted scoring matrix after the closing date.
2
Citrus researchers score postgraduate applications based on project priority and value.
3
Top candidates form a shortlist alongside current bursary holders progressing in their studies.
4
Final funding allocations are confirmed and successful applicants receive notice by mid-December 2026.

Forms, downloads and links

Last verified: September 2026   ·   Category: Science   ·   Reviewed by grantZA Editorial
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