Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Scheme

1. 1

   Confirm that your proposed research applies only to red meat species (cattle, sheep and goats) and falls within an eligible field of importance to the red meat industry

2. 2

   Complete the online application form at meatindustrytrust.org/studentbursaryapplication (hardcopy applications may alternatively be delivered to the Bursary Working Committee at 318 The Hillside Road, Lynnwood, Pretoria 0081)

3. 3

   Attach your academic record, proof of (or qualification to) register for a Master's or Doctorate, and your research project proposal

4. 4

   Submit your full application within the annual application window (the 2026 cycle ran 30 September to 31 October 2025; verify current-year dates on the official site)

5. 5

   Applications are assessed by the Bursary Working Committee on academic record, scientific quality of the project proposal and the contribution the project could make to the red meat industry

6. 6

   Successful students receive funding in instalments after submitting proof of registration and supervisor confirmation of academic progress

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the MIT bursary worth?

The bursary is R60,000 per annum. A Master's student can receive a maximum of R120,000 over two consecutive years, and a Doctoral student a maximum of R180,000 over three consecutive years. Funds are paid in instalments after proof of registration and supervisor confirmation of progress.

Who qualifies for the Meat Industry Trust bursary?

You must be a South African citizen who qualifies to register for a Master's (MSc) or Doctorate (PhD) at a South African tertiary institution, be a registered full-time student, and not be employed. Your research project must apply only to red meat species — cattle, sheep and goats — and you must declare any other bursaries you hold.

Which fields of study does the bursary fund?

It funds postgraduate research of importance to the red meat industry, including consumer insights, environmental sustainability, genetics, animal health, food safety, meat science, animal nutrition, livestock production, rangeland management and waste utilisation, all relating to cattle, sheep and goats only.

When does the MIT bursary close?

Applications run on an annual cycle that typically opens in late September and closes at the end of October. For the 2026 cycle the window ran from 30 September to 31 October 2025. Always verify the current-year dates on the official site before applying.