SAMAC Bursary Programme

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria (South African citizen, completed or current Matric or acceptance at a recognised SA tertiary institution, strong academic record and proven financial need)

2. 2

   Visit the SAMAC skills development page (samac.org.za/skills-development) for programme details and the correct application form

3. 3

   Download the relevant application form - undergraduate or postgraduate (the two streams use separate forms)

4. 4

   Postgraduate applicants: prepare a research proposal showing how your research will benefit the macadamia industry

5. 5

   Gather all supporting documents (certified ID, Matric certificate, academic records, proof of registration and parental income documentation)

6. 6

   Email your completed application and documents to the SAMAC office with the subject line 'SAMAC Bursary 2026 - Undergraduate or Postgraduate'

7. 7

   Submit before the closing date (around 31 January for the academic year; applications open in the latter part of the preceding year)

8. 8

   Wait for the SAMAC office to assess applications and notify successful applicants

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the SAMAC Bursary Programme?

South African citizens who have completed Matric (or are currently in Matric or accepted at a recognised SA tertiary institution), have a strong academic record and proven financial need, and are studying or intending to study at an accredited South African tertiary institution. Postgraduate applicants must propose research that benefits the macadamia industry.

What does the SAMAC Bursary cover and how much is it worth?

The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed or required textbooks, and student accommodation. SAMAC does not publicly disclose a fixed rand amount on its official page, so no specific figure can be confirmed.

How do I apply for the SAMAC Bursary?

Download the correct application form for your stream (undergraduate or postgraduate) from the SAMAC skills development page, then email your completed application and supporting documents to the SAMAC office with the subject line 'SAMAC Bursary 2026 - Undergraduate or Postgraduate'. Undergraduate and postgraduate applicants use separate forms, and postgraduate applicants must include a research proposal that benefits the macadamia industry.

When does the SAMAC Bursary close?

It is an annual programme. Applications for the 2026 academic year closed on 31 January 2026, with applications opening in the latter part of the preceding year. The cycle recurs each year with a closing date around 31 January, and the next (2027) cycle is expected to follow the same pattern.