Hortgro
Hortgro Bursary 2027 – Apply Now
Role Overview
Hortgro has opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme, offering South African students a chance to study towards a career in the country’s deciduous fruit industry. The bursary is open to learners who have completed Matric or who are currently in Matric, and who plan to study agriculture or horticulture related qualifications in 2027. The award is renewable each year and successful students are paired with a mentor. Applications close on 15 August 2026 for the Hortgro bursary, so interested students should prepare their documents and apply early.
About the Hortgro Bursary Programme
Hortgro is one of South Africa’s leading agricultural organisations and is committed to the future of the deciduous fruit sector. It helps fruit growers to produce, market and sell high quality produce, and focuses on research and technology, production, transformation, markets and communication within the industry. The organisation’s roots stretch back to 1652, when the first apple seeds were planted in the Cape, and today its members include the SA Apple and Pear Producers’ Association, the SA Stone Fruit Producers’ Association and the Dried Fruit Technical Services.
Through its bursary programme, Hortgro invests in young South Africans who want to build careers in agriculture. The deciduous fruit industry is a major employer and exporter, and skilled graduates in horticulture, agricultural science and related fields are in steady demand. For unemployed youth and school leavers, a Hortgro bursary is more than funding. It is a direct pathway into a growing sector with real jobs.
The Hortgro Bursary offers the following benefits to successful students:
An annual bursary award that is renewable each year, based on satisfactory academic performance
Access to a dedicated mentor who supports your studies and career development
Funding towards a recognised agriculture or horticulture qualification at a South African tertiary institution
The full breakdown of costs covered (such as tuition, books and accommodation) is confirmed during the application process
To qualify for the Hortgro Bursary 2027, you must meet all of the following requirements:
Have completed Matric, or currently be in Matric
Be studying or intend to study towards one of the approved qualifications in 2027
Be studying or registered at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa
Meet the admission requirements for your chosen course
Approved fields of study include Agri-Management, Agricultural Biotechnology, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Science, Entomology, Horticulture (Production or Post-harvest), Marketing, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Project Management, and Soil and Water Science.
RELATED: Absa Bursary Programme 2027 – Apply Now
Certified copy of your ID document or ID card (both sides)
Matric certificate, or your latest Matric results if you are currently in Matric
Your latest tertiary academic record (if you are already studying)
Proof of tertiary registration on the institution’s letterhead
An estimated breakdown of your study fees (tuition, books and accommodation)
Your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
Proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income (payslips if employed, or an affidavit if unemployed)
Proof of any other financial assistance, bursaries or loans, if applicable
A handwritten essay about yourself, your career plans and why you should be awarded the bursary
Visit the official Hortgro website and open the Hortgro Bursary Application 2027 form.
Complete every section of the online application form accurately.
Gather and upload all of the required supporting documents listed above.
Write and attach your handwritten essay and list your two references.
Submit your completed application before the closing date and keep a copy for your records.
For more information or to request the bursary brochure, email learn@hortgro.co.za. Apply at Hortgro.
The closing date for the Hortgro Bursary 2027 is 15 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains one of the highest in the world, and the cost of tertiary education keeps many talented young people out of the classroom. A fully supported bursary like this one removes the biggest barrier between a Matric certificate and a professional qualification. Agriculture is also one of the few sectors that continues to create jobs, from farm management and food science to research and export.
By studying in a Hortgro-approved field, you position yourself for stable, well-paid work in an industry that feeds the nation and earns valuable export income. The added mentorship means you are not just funded, you are guided. For a young person from a low income household, this opportunity can change the direction of an entire family.
No. This is a study bursary for school leavers and students. No prior work experience is required, only that you meet the academic and citizenship criteria.
Yes. Learners currently in Matri
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• To qualify for the Hortgro Bursary 2027, you must meet all of the following requirements:
• Be a South African citizen
• Have completed Matric, or currently be in Matric
• Be studying or intend to study towards one of the approved qualifications in 2027
• Be studying or registered at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa
• Meet the admission requirements for your chosen course
• Approved fields of study include Agri-Management, Agricultural Biotechnology, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Science, Entomology, Horticulture (Production or Post-harvest), Marketing, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Project Management, and Soil and Water Science.
• RELATED: Absa Bursary Programme 2027 – Apply Now
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Visit the official Hortgro website and open the Hortgro Bursary Application 2027 form. Complete every section of the online application form accurately. Gather and upload all of the required supporting documents listed above. Write and attach your handwritten essay and list your two references. Submit your completed application before the closing date and keep a copy for your records. For more information or to request the bursary brochure, email learn@hortgro.co.za. Apply at Hortgro.
Email application: learn@hortgro.co.za
About Hortgro
This bursary is offered by Hortgro.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Hortgro can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 15 August 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Yes, this opportunity requires a matric certificate.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 15 August 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.