SAAFoST Foundation Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on SAAFoST Foundation Bursary (for Part-Time Students) Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student who is balancing work, family responsibilities, or professional commitments while pursuing your studies in food science, nutrition, or related fields? The SAAFoST Foundation Bursary for Part-Time Students 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering much-needed financial support to dedicated learners who are upgrading their qualifications on a part-time basis. This bursary is administered by the South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST), a leading professional body committed to advancing food science, technology, and innovation in South Africa.

The SAAFoST Foundation plays a vital role in developing skilled professionals who contribute to food safety, food security, nutrition, and sustainable food systems. Through its bursary programme, the foundation invests in students who demonstrate passion and commitment to the food and allied industries, even while studying part-time. This makes the SAAFoST bursary ideal for working professionals and mature students seeking to grow their careers without interrupting their employment.

The SAAFoST Foundation Bursary provides financial assistance that may cover tuition fees and other study-related expenses, helping to ease the burden of education costs. In addition to funding, beneficiaries become part of a professional network that offers exposure to industry opportunities, mentorship, and continuous professional development within the food science and technology sector. This support structure empowers students to excel academically while gaining practical insights into the industry.

By applying for the SAAFoST Foundation Bursary for Part-Time Students 2026/2027, you are taking a strategic step towards advancing your education and career in food science, food technology, nutrition, and related disciplines. It is more than just financial aid; it is an investment in your professional growth and future impact in South Africa’s food industry.

In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.

Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026

Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026

Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026

Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the SAAFoST Foundation Bursary for Part-Time Students 2026/2027.

About South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST)

The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) is a professional, non-profit organization that serves food scientists, technologists, and other professionals within South Africa’s food and allied industries. The association plays a key role in promoting excellence in food science and technology through scientific research, professional development, education, and industry engagement.

SAAFoST achieves its objectives by:

Publishing a membership magazine
Hosting workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and meetings
Encouraging scientific research
Supporting educational activities and training initiatives

With approximately 2,000 members across Southern Africa, SAAFoST is largely run by volunteers who are passionate about advancing the food science profession.

To manage and administer its academic funding initiatives, SAAFoST established the SAAFoST Foundation, which oversees all bursaries, awards, and prizes offered by the association.

About the SAAFoST Bursary Programmes 2026/2027

Fields Covered

The SAAFoST Foundation offers bursaries to students studying within the Food Science and Technology field. These bursaries are aimed at developing skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s food industry.

SAAFoST awards three different types of bursaries:

1. SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary

For learners currently in Matric who intend to study full-time towards their first undergraduate Degree or Diploma in Food Science and Technology.

2. SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary

For students already pursuing full-time studies towards their first undergraduate Degree or Diploma in Food Science and Technology.

3. SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary for SAAFoST Members

For paid-up SAAFoST full members who are studying part-time towards a:

BSc Honours, or
BTech qualification
within the Food Science and Technology field.

This article focuses mainly on the SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary.

Selection & Coverage Value

The SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary is awarded primarily on academic merit, rewarding students who demonstrate strong performance and potential in their studies.

Bursary Coverage

The bursary covers:

Tuition fees only, based on the tertiary institution’s official statement of account

The funding is:

Up to a maximum of R40,000, or
Paid pro-rata over a two-year period

Payments are made directly to the tertiary institution in two instalments. The second instalment is conditional upon satisfactory academic performance during the first semester.

Eligibility Requirements for SAAFoST Foundation Bursary Application 2026/2027

To qualify for the SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Must have lived in South Africa for at least 3 years before applying
Must have completed Matric
Must be studying part-time towards a BSc Honours or BTech qualification in Food Science and Technology
Must be studying at a recognized and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
Must be able to complete studies within the prescribed time:
- Maximum 2 years for BTech
- Maximum 3 years for BSc Honours
Must have been a paid-up full SAAFoST member for at least 12 months before applying
Preference is given to students with strong academic results or proven academic potential

Failure to meet any of these criteria will result in automatic disqualification.

How to Apply for SAAFoST Foundation Bursary 2026/2027

Applicants must download and complete one of the following application forms:

SAAFoST Bursary Application Form (Part-Time Students) (.pdf)
SAAFoST Bursary Application Form (Part-Time Students) (.docx)

Required Supporting Documents

All applications must include certified copies of the following:

ID document or passport
Passport-sized photograph (head and shoulders only)
Most recent tertiary academic results
BSc or National Diploma results and certificate
A Personal Statement (maximum 1 A4 page) explaining:
- How your education and training in Food Science and Technology will positively impact the scientific community
- How it will benefit your personal and professional development
Proof of registration at your tertiary institution (on official letterhead)

Submission Method

Applications must be submitted in two ways:

1. Email Submission

Send your completed application and documents to: irene@saafost.org.za

Email subject line: “SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary Application”

2. Postal Submission

Send a hardcopy to:

SAAFoST Membership Development Officer
PO Box 35233
Menlo Park
0102

Notes About the SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary

The bursary is administered by the SAAFoST Foundation, in collaboration with Student Liaison Representatives at tertiary institutions
The Foundation reserves the right not to award any bursaries
Bursary recipients must submit:
- Six-monthly progress reports
- Examination results
- Details of participation in SAAFoST activities
The bursary will be converted into a repayable loan if:
- A semester or year is failed
- Studies are terminated, interrupted, or changed
- Studies are not completed

All applications are reviewed in January and February, and successful candidates are announced in February.

Closing Date for SAAFoST Foundation Bursary Application 2026/2027

The official closing date is: 31 January

Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.

Contact Details of South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST)

For any queries about the SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary Programme, contact:

Tel: 071 870 2633
Email: irene@saafost.org.za