Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary is a prestigious scholarship program offered by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

The ARC is a government agency dedicated to advancing agricultural research and development in South Africa.

This bursary aims to support academically smart students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in fields related to agriculture, with a strong focus on addressing national needs and priorities.

These bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses, alleviating the financial burden and allowing recipients to focus on academic excellence.

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary application process is open to South African citizens who have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, such as agricultural science, animal science, veterinary science, or environmental science.

Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary Application Form

The ARC bursary application process is conducted online through the ARC bursary portal.

You should prepare the following documents for the online submission:

  1. Certified copies of your academic transcripts.
  2. Proof of South African citizenship (ID or birth certificate).
  3. Proof of financial need (parents’ income statements or affidavits).
  4. A CV outlining relevant skills and experience.
  5. A motivational letter explaining your academic goals and career aspirations in the agricultural research field.

The completed application form and supporting documents must be submitted online via the ARC website.

Applicants must use the relevant reference number when applying so the selection committee will know where to place you:

  1. BSc/ Honours students: HCD01Masters
  2. Masters students: HCD02Doctoral
  3. PhD students: HCD05Postdoc

Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary Requirements

The specific requirements for the ARC bursary may vary slightly depending on your chosen field of study. However, some general criteria apply:

  1. Academic Performance: You must demonstrate strong academic performance, typically with a minimum average of 70% or higher in your previous studies.
  2. Financial Need: You must be able to demonstrate financial need to justify the bursary award.
  3. Field of Study: Your chosen field of study must align with the ARC’s research priorities, which include:
    • Animal Production and Health.
    • Plant Production and Protection.
    • Agricultural Engineering and Technology.
    • Agricultural Economics and Policy.
    • Food Science and Technology.
    • Natural Resource Management.
  4. Commitment to South Africa: You must show a strong commitment to contributing your knowledge and skills to the advancement of agricultural research in South Africa after completing your studies.

Download The ARC Bursary List

Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary Closing Date

The ARC Bursary application deadline is normally announced on the ARC website in July or August of each year.

As of today, January 22, 2024, the next ARC Bursary application cycle has not yet been announced.

I recommend checking the ARC website regularly for updates and deadlines or you can simply come back here for any new updates.

If you have any inquiries about the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary, you can contact Mr. Ndikho Mbuce at the ARC Human Resources department through email at arcpdp@arc.agric.za.