FoodBev SETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027

by

FoodBev SETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on FoodBev SETA Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with a passion for the food and beverage industry, agriculture, food science, manufacturing, or quality assurance? The Food and Beverages Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FoodBev SETA) Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue studies in fields that drive South Africa’s food and beverage manufacturing sector. As a SETA mandated to develop skills and strengthen the workforce within the industry, FoodBev SETA invests in education to build a pool of competent professionals who will enhance productivity, innovation, and sustainability in the sector.

The FoodBev SETA Bursary provides comprehensive funding, which may include tuition fees, registration fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, and a monthly allowance, depending on available funding and the student’s needs. In addition to financial support, beneficiaries gain valuable industry exposure, skills development opportunities, and improved employability within one of South Africa’s most critical economic sectors. This bursary is especially aimed at students who show strong academic potential and an interest in contributing to the growth and transformation of the food and beverages manufacturing industry.

By applying for the FoodBev SETA Bursary 2026/2027, students not only reduce the financial burden of tertiary education but also position themselves for exciting career opportunities in food technology, food science, agriculture, quality control, engineering, manufacturing, and related disciplines.

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 FoodBev SETA Bursary Programme 2026/2027.

About FoodBev SETA

The Food and Beverage Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FoodBev SETA) is responsible for promoting, facilitating, and incentivising skills development within South Africa’s food and beverage manufacturing sector. Its main goal is to ensure that high-quality learning and training standards are maintained, while also improving access to knowledge and practical skills for both employed and unemployed individuals in the industry.

FoodBev SETA is one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa. SETAs play a crucial role in developing vocational and professional skills across different industries, ensuring that the workforce remains competitive, innovative, and aligned with national economic priorities. Through bursaries, learnerships, and training programmes, FoodBev SETA supports the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that can drive growth in the food and beverage manufacturing sector.

Fields Covered

The FoodBev SETA Bursary Programme is aimed at supporting postgraduate research and innovation. Public universities are invited to apply on behalf of students who are registered for postgraduate qualifications.

The bursary is awarded to students pursuing:

  • Master’s Degree (MSc or equivalent)
  • Doctorate (PhD)

All research topics must be directly related to the Food and Beverages Manufacturing value chain. This includes areas such as food production, processing, safety, quality assurance, packaging, supply chain management, sustainability, and innovation in manufacturing systems.

The programme was established in response to the growing need for research and development within the food and beverage manufacturing sector, ensuring that South Africa remains globally competitive and technologically advanced.

Coverage Value

The bursary provides financial assistance subject to the availability of funds and is awarded based on the evaluation of the student’s approved research topic.

For Master’s Students:

The bursary covers:

  • Registration fees
  • Tuition fees
  • Research costs
  • Study materials

Funding is provided up to a maximum of R120 000 for the entire duration of the Master’s degree. Students are also required to complete coursework as part of their qualification.

For PhD Students:

The bursary covers:

  • Tuition fees
  • Research-related costs

Funding is provided up to a maximum of R150 000 for the entire duration of the PhD programme.

All bursary recipients must submit a progress report at the end of each academic year, signed and approved by their supervisor. This ensures accountability and continuous academic performance monitoring.

Eligibility Requirements for FoodBev SETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027

To qualify for the FoodBev SETA Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
  • Must be registered for a Master’s or PhD qualification
  • Must be studying at a recognized public university in South Africa
  • Master’s students:
    • Research topic must be endorsed by a supervisor
    • Research must be relevant to the food and beverage manufacturing value chain
  • PhD students:
    • Must have an approved research proposal
    • Proposal must include clear timeframes and an estimated completion date
    • Expected PhD completion period is between 2 and 5 years
  • Must not be receiving any other bursary funding (to be confirmed by the University Bursary Office)
  • Preference is given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds

Failure to meet all the requirements will result in the application not being considered.

How to Apply for FoodBev SETA Bursary 2026/2027

It is important to note that students do not apply directly to FoodBev SETA. Applications must be submitted through their University Bursary Office, which will apply on their behalf.

Step-by-step Application Process:
  1. Download and complete the FoodBev SETA Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
  2. Submit the completed form to your University Bursary Office
  3. Attach all the required supporting documents
Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following documents:

  • Certified copy of ID document (not older than 6 months)
  • Proof of registration for the current academic year
  • PhD students:
    • Approved research proposal (including research costs)
  • Master’s students:
    • Approved research proposal (including research costs)
    • Research topic endorsed by the supervisor
  • University’s Tax Clearance Certificate
  • Signed declaration of intent
  • Signed progress reports and results submitted to FoodBev SETA officials (signed by both applicant and supervisor)

Missing documents may lead to immediate disqualification.

Closing Date for FoodBev SETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027

The official closing date for applications is: 17 February

Late applications will not be accepted, so students are encouraged to submit all required documentation well before the deadline.

Contact Details of FoodBev SETA

For any queries related to the FoodBev SETA Bursary Programme, contact:

Related Posts: