Are you an unemployed South African graduate looking to further your studies in agriculture, economics, environmental management, or related fields? The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary 2027 offers an excellent opportunity for postgraduate students to pursue Master’s and Doctoral qualifications while receiving financial support, mentorship, and research development opportunities.
The ARC Bursary Programme is designed to strengthen South Africa’s agricultural research capacity by supporting talented graduates who are committed to innovation, scientific research, and sustainable agricultural development. A total of 14 bursaries will be awarded for the 2027 academic year.
About the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
The Agricultural Research Council is South Africa’s premier agricultural science institution. The organization conducts research, develops innovative technologies, and supports agricultural growth through scientific advancement and capacity development.
Through its bursary programme, ARC aims to develop future researchers, scientists, and professionals who can contribute to food security, agricultural sustainability, and socioeconomic development in South Africa.
Direct Link to Apply for the ARC Bursary 2027
Official ARC Website
Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Official Website
ARC Careers and Opportunities Portal
Applicants should search for the bursary reference numbers:
- ARC-925 (Master’s Bursary)
- ARC-926 (Doctoral Bursary)
ARC Bursary 2027 Overview
| Programme | Number Available |
|---|---|
| Master’s Bursaries | 7 |
| Doctoral (PhD) Bursaries | 7 |
| Total Bursaries | 14 |
The bursary supports postgraduate students pursuing research-focused qualifications in agricultural sciences and related disciplines.
Fields of Study Covered
The ARC Bursary 2027 covers Master’s and Doctoral studies in fields including:
- Agribusiness Management
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Extension
- Agricultural Management
- Econometrics
- Environmental and Natural Resources Management
- Gender Studies
- Information Systems
- Intellectual Property Management and Commercialisation
- International Relations
- Knowledge Management
- Social Sciences
- Socioeconomics
- Social Accounting Matrix (SAM)
- Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) Modelling
- Agent-Based Modelling and related agricultural research fields.
Benefits of the ARC Bursary
Successful applicants may receive:
- Funding for postgraduate studies
- Mentorship from experienced ARC researchers
- Access to ARC laboratories and research facilities
- Research skills development workshops
- Support for thesis and dissertation research
- Opportunities to participate in real-world agricultural research projects
- Potential work placement opportunities within ARC and affiliated organizations.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Agricultural Research Council Bursary 2027, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be unemployed
- Be accepted or registered at a South African university
- Not be receiving NSFAS or another bursary
- Meet the academic requirements for the chosen postgraduate qualification
Master’s Applicants
Applicants must have completed an Honours degree in a relevant field.
Doctoral Applicants
Applicants must have completed a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Cover letter
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified academic qualifications
- Academic transcripts
- Driver’s licence (if available)
- Proof of university registration or acceptance
- SAQA evaluation report (for foreign qualifications)
- Details of three contactable referees.
How to Apply for the ARC Bursary 2027
Follow these steps:
- Visit the ARC recruitment portal.
- Search for the relevant bursary reference number.
- Create or log into your profile.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before the closing date.
Only online applications submitted through the official ARC recruitment system will be considered.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates may undergo:
- Security clearance verification
- Competency assessments
- Leadership evaluations
- Academic record review
- Reference checks.
Application Closing Date
The current advertised closing date for the ARC Bursary Programme is:
17 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing the deadline.
Why You Should Apply
The Agricultural Research Council Bursary is more than just financial assistance. It provides access to leading researchers, advanced research facilities, mentorship, and opportunities to contribute to South Africa’s agricultural development.
For graduates interested in agricultural research, economics, environmental management, and policy development, the ARC Bursary can be an important stepping stone toward a successful academic and professional career.
Final Thoughts
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary 2027 is one of South Africa’s leading postgraduate funding opportunities for students pursuing Master’s and PhD studies in agriculture and related disciplines. With comprehensive support, research exposure, and mentorship from industry experts, the programme helps develop the next generation of agricultural scientists and researchers.
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official ARC recruitment portal before the closing date.
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