The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation warmly invites students to apply for its competitive Undergraduate, Matriculant and Part-Time bursary programs designed for the 2025 academic year. These bursaries aim to support and empower aspiring individuals in the field of food science and technology, providing them with essential financial assistance to further their education and pursue their career goals. This is an excellent opportunity for students committed to making a significant impact in the food industry.

The programme comprises three types of bursaries:

  1. SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary: For matriculants planning to study full-time toward an undergraduate degree or diploma.
  2. SAAFoST Undergraduate Bursary: For students already pursuing full-time undergraduate studies. More information here.
  3. SAAFoST Part-Time Bursary: For paid-up SAAFoST members studying part-time toward a BSc Hons or BTech.

About SAAFoST

The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to advancing food science and technology in South Africa. The organization supports education, research, and knowledge sharing within the food and allied industries through initiatives such as workshops, seminars, publications, and bursary programmes. SAAFoST is operated by volunteers and serves approximately 2000 members across Southern Africa.

What the Bursary Covers

  • Covers tuition fees only, up to R40,000 per year.
  • Payments are made directly to the institution in two instalments.
  • Renewable annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance and program completion within the prescribed time:
    • Diploma: max 4 years
    • Undergraduate Degree: max 4 years
    • BTech Degree: max 5 years

Selection Criteria

  • Academic merit
  • Employment equity
  • Demonstrated potential

Eligibility Requirements for the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary 2025

Applicants must:

  • Be South African citizens and residents for at least 3 years.
  • Be currently in Matric (Grade 12).
  • Intend to study full time towards a degree or diploma in Food Science and Technology in 2025.
  • Be accepted at an accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
  • Have a Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC) or equivalent qualification.
  • Achieve a minimum of:
    • 60–69% (Level 5) in Physical Science and Mathematics.
    • (Life Science is recommended.)
  • Register as a SAAFoST member within 3 months of tertiary enrollment and maintain active membership

How to Apply for the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary 2025

Steps to Apply

  1. Download and complete the application form:
  2. Submit the following documents via email to irene@saafost.org.za
    • Certified copy of ID or passport
    • Passport-sized photo (head & shoulders)
    • Certified copy of Grade 11 results and latest Matric results
    • Personal Statement outlining achievements, career goals, and how studying Food Science and Technology will positively impact the scientific community
    • Reference Letter from someone who has known you academically for at least 3 years
  3. Email Subject Line:
    “SAAFoST Matric Bursary Application 2025”

Important Notes

  • Applicants must submit 6-monthly progress reports to the SAAFoST Foundation.
  • If studies are terminated, or interrupted, or a semester is failed, the bursary will convert to a repayable loan.
  • Applications will be reviewed in November 2024, and successful candidates will be announced in December 2024.

Closing Date

The application deadline is 31 October 2024. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Contact Information

For queries, contact:

This bursary is a great opportunity for students looking to advance their studies. Share this information with others who might benefit from it. For more bursaries and scholarships, visit: studyinvarsity.co.za.