UKZN College Of Agriculture – Engineering And Science Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you’re a passionate student aiming to pursue postgraduate studies in South Africa, the UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Bursary for 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity. Administered by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), this bursary programme supports deserving postgraduate and returning undergraduate students through financial aid, enabling them to achieve academic excellence in the fields of Agriculture, Engineering, and Science.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about the UKZN CAES bursary, including eligibility, fields of study, bursary values, how to apply, and deadlines.
About the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Established in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and Durban-Westville, UKZN is one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions. It boasts five key campuses:
- Edgewood Campus
- Howard College Campus
- Medical School Campus
- Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Westville Campus
Each campus hosts various colleges offering specialized academic disciplines. Among these is the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES), led by Professor Albert Modi, supported by six Deans across key disciplines.
UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES)
The UKZN CAES consists of five core schools:
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences
- School of Chemistry and Physics
- School of Engineering
- School of Life Sciences
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science
These schools are instrumental in developing South Africa’s next generation of scientists, engineers, and agricultural experts. To support this mission, UKZN has partnered with donors to offer CAES bursaries for postgraduate studies in 2026.
Fields Covered by the UKZN CAES Bursary for 2026
The bursaries target postgraduate students pursuing Master’s or Doctoral degrees in the following fields:
| Field of Study | Qualification Level | Donor | Number of Awards | Bursary Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture / Agriculture Management | MSc | Donald Moore | 2 | R45,845 each |
| Horticulture | MSc or PhD | John Travers | 2 (1 MSc, 1 PhD) | R34,422 |
| Engineering (Excl. Mechanical) | MScEng | TB Davis | 1 | R20,287 |
| Mechanical Engineering | MScEng or PhD | Reino Stegan | 4 MScEng, 4 PhD | MScEng: R50,000, PhD: R55,000 |
Each bursary is generously funded by private donors committed to fostering academic excellence.
Eligibility Criteria for the UKZN CAES Bursary
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on their field of study:
For MSc in Agriculture or Agricultural Management
- Must be a South African citizen
- Currently registered at UKZN
- Enrolled in MSc in Agriculture or Agricultural Management
- Minimum 75% average in Honours
For MSc or PhD in Horticulture
- Registered for MSc or PhD in Horticulture
- Achieved a minimum 75% average in the previous qualification
For MScEng (excluding Mechanical Engineering)
- Must be a UKZN graduate in engineering
- Registered for MScEng (excluding Mechanical Engineering)
- Minimum 75% average in BScEng
For MScEng or PhD in Mechanical Engineering
- Registered for MScEng or PhD in Mechanical Engineering
- Minimum 75% average
- Preference given to UKZN graduates
UKZN Bursaries for Returning Undergraduate Students (2026)
In addition to postgraduate support, UKZN CAES also provides bursaries for returning undergraduate students. These are internal bursaries and are funded through donor contributions and corporate social responsibility programmes.
Features of the Undergraduate Bursary Programme:
| Criteria | Bursary Value |
|---|---|
| Academic Average > 74.5% | R25,000 |
| Academic Average 64.5% – 74.5% | R12,500 |
| Academic Average 54.5% – 64.5% | R7,500 |
Note:
- Family income must be below R600,000 per annum
- Bursary is renewable if the student maintains a minimum 55% average
- If you receive NSFAS or external funding, your bursary will be adjusted accordingly
How to Apply for the UKZN College of CAES Bursary
There is no formal application form. Students must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Cover Letter
- Clearly state which bursary you’re applying for
- Explain why you’re a suitable candidate
- Highlight how you meet the eligibility requirements
- Mention any other bursaries or scholarships held
- Proof of Registration at UKZN
- Most Recent Academic Transcript
Application Format Guidelines
- Combine all documents into one PDF
- File should be named using Surname_StudentNumber
- Email subject line must be: “UKZN Bursary Application”
Send your application to: Ms Maju Radebe [email protected]
Application Deadline
- Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Late submissions will not be considered. Apply early to avoid disappointment.
Contact Information
If you have questions regarding the bursary programme, please get in touch with:
Contact Person: Ms Maju Radebe
Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES)
Why You Should Apply for the UKZN CAES Bursary
- Financial Relief: Substantial support to ease tuition and academic expenses
- Academic Empowerment: Encourages merit-based success in critical fields
- Career Growth: Opens doors for future research, innovation, and leadership
- Donor-funded: Backed by credible names like Reino Stegan and TB Davis
- Simple Application Process: No forms just a compelling letter and academic proof
Whether you’re specializing in Mechanical Engineering, Horticulture, or Agriculture Management, the UKZN CAES bursary 2026 could be the game changer you need.
FAQs About UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Bursary
Can I apply for multiple UKZN CAES bursaries at once?
You may only apply for one bursary category relevant to your field of study. Make sure your application clearly states your qualification level and specialization.
Is there an official application form for the UKZN CAES Bursary?
No, there is no official application form. Applicants must compile all required documents and send them via email in one PDF.
Do I qualify if I already receive NSFAS funding?
Yes, you can still qualify. However, your UKZN bursary amount may be adjusted to reflect your existing financial aid.
Conclusion
The UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Bursary South Africa 2026 is more than financial support it an investment in your academic future. With a simplified application process, donor-backed funding, and recognition of academic excellence, this opportunity is ideal for ambitious students aiming to advance in postgraduate or continuing undergraduate studies.
