The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 is officially open and offers full financial support to South African students who want to pursue undergraduate qualifications in agriculture. This bursary is designed to build critical skills that support food security, rural development, and sustainable agricultural growth across the country.
Administered by the Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa, the programme focuses on funding students who are studying at Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education. For students who are passionate about agriculture and want to build a long-term career in the sector, this bursary provides an opportunity to study without the pressure of tuition costs.
About the Land Bank Bursary Programme
The Land Bank Bursary Programme is a targeted funding initiative aimed at strengthening South Africa’s agricultural sector by investing in young people with the potential to contribute meaningfully to agricultural development. Rather than offering broad funding across multiple disciplines, the programme focuses specifically on agricultural qualifications that support economic transformation and long-term sustainability.
By supporting students at accredited agricultural colleges, Land Bank ensures that beneficiaries receive both theoretical knowledge and practical training that aligns with real industry needs. This approach helps bridge the gap between education and employment within the agricultural value chain.
What the Land Bank Bursary Covers
Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial support for their undergraduate studies, subject to meeting academic and bursary conditions throughout the funding period.
Financial Support Includes
- Full payment of tuition fees directly to the institution
- Coverage of compulsory academic fees linked to the qualification
- Developmental support aligned with Land Bank’s mandate
This funding structure allows students to focus fully on their studies and practical training without the financial burden that often limits access to agricultural education.
Fields of Study Given Priority
The bursary supports undergraduate qualifications that directly strengthen South Africa’s agricultural value chain. Priority is given to fields that contribute to sustainable production, agribusiness growth, and rural development.
Common areas of study include:
- General agriculture
- Crop and animal production
- Agricultural economics
- Agribusiness management
- Soil science
- Agricultural engineering and related disciplines
Applicants are encouraged to apply if their chosen qualification supports long-term agricultural development and food security in South Africa.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 is suitable for students who meet the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be accepted or registered at a CHE-accredited agricultural college
- Must be enrolled in an undergraduate agricultural qualification
- Must demonstrate strong academic performance and a genuine interest in agriculture
Students from rural or farming communities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the programme aims to support inclusive growth within the agricultural sector.
How to Apply for the Land Bank Bursary 2026
Applications must be submitted according to Land Bank’s official application process. Incomplete or late applications are not considered.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Download the bursary application form from the official Land Bank bursary opportunities section
- Complete the application form carefully and accurately
- Attach all required supporting documents, including:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results or transcripts
- Proof of acceptance or registration at an agricultural college
- Any additional documents requested on the application form
- Email your completed application and supporting documents to:
Why the Land Bank Bursary Matters
Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors. Through this bursary programme, Land Bank plays a direct role in developing scarce agricultural skills and supporting young people who will shape the future of food production and rural economies.
The bursary contributes to:
- Strengthening food security
- Promoting rural development
- Building a skilled agricultural workforce
- Supporting sustainable agribusiness growth
This makes the Land Bank Bursary Programme not only a financial opportunity but also a long-term investment in national development.
Career Paths After Completing Your Studies
Graduates supported by the Land Bank bursary can pursue a wide range of career opportunities within the agricultural sector, including:
- Commercial and emerging farming
- Agricultural finance and agribusiness
- Government and public-sector agriculture
- Research and agricultural development
- Extension services and agricultural consultancy
Demand for qualified agricultural professionals continues to grow, making these career paths both stable and impactful.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Applicants are encouraged to submit a complete and well-prepared application. To improve your chances:
- Ensure all documents are certified and clearly scanned
- Double-check that academic results meet programme expectations
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to agriculture through your chosen field of study
- Submit your application well before the deadline
A professional and accurate application reflects seriousness and dedication to your studies and future career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Land Bank Bursary only for agricultural studies?
Yes. The bursary supports undergraduate qualifications focused specifically on agriculture at CHE-registered agricultural colleges.
Does the bursary cover accommodation or living expenses?
The bursary primarily focuses on tuition and compulsory academic fees. Any additional support depends on the bursary’s specific terms and conditions.
Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Students who have been accepted or provisionally registered at an agricultural college may apply.
Is the bursary awarded for one year or the full qualification?
Funding is usually reviewed annually and is dependent on satisfactory academic performance.
Where must the application be submitted?
All applications must be submitted via email to the address provided in the application process.
Conclusion
The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for students who want to study agriculture without the burden of tuition costs while preparing for a meaningful and impactful career. If agriculture is your chosen path and you are committed to contributing to South Africa’s food security and rural development, this bursary can help you achieve your goals.
The closing date for applications is 05 January 2026.
