ADSA Bursary 2026 – Dietetics Students in South Africa

Are you a South African student passionate about nutrition and health, looking to pursue a career in dietetics? 

The Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA) bursary program might be the perfect opportunity for you. 

The ADSA is the professional organization representing Registered Dietitians in South Africa.

The association serves to advocate for the interests of dietitians within the country and promote the nutritional well-being of the South African community.

As a registered non-profit organization (NPO), ADSA boasts over a thousand members spread across eight regional branches.

About the Association for Dietetics in South Africa Bursary

The Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA) is the recognized professional body for registered dietitians in South Africa. 

Since 2013, ADSA has offered bursaries to support qualified and passionate dietetics students who demonstrate financial need.

Fields of Study Funded

This bursary is for undergraduate Dietetics students in South Africa.

Eligibility begins from your second year of study, continuing through to your final year.

Benefits for Recipients

Selected students receive partial funding of up to R30 000 per year, covering costs such as:

• Registration fees
• Textbooks and study materials
• Accommodation
• Other education-related expenses

Funds are paid directly into the university account upon receipt of your statement. 

In addition, successful applicants receive student membership with ADSA for the duration of the bursary.

Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify for the ADSA bursary, you must:

• Be a South African citizen
• Be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate dietetics programme at a recognized institution
• Be in your second year of study (or have completed your first year) entering your second year in 2026
• Demonstrate financial need
• Show passion for nutrition and health and leadership involvement during school or university

After graduation, you must also:

• Work in South Africa for at least the same number of years as the bursary duration (excluding your community service year)
• Remain an active ADSA member in your local branch for that same period

How to Apply

1. Apply online via ADSA’s official bursary application portal when applications open.
2. Complete the form and include “www.bursariesafrica.co.za.” in the “Where did you hear about bursaries?” field.
3. Upload all required documents (listed below).
4. Submit before the official closing date. Only complete applications are considered.

Required Documents

You must submit certified copies of the following:

1. South African ID document
2. Latest academic results (if final year marks are unavailable, submit June semester results)
3. Motivational letter (roughly 300 words), outlining why you deserve the bursary, your passion for dietetics, and your career aspirations
4. Proof of household income, such as payslips, affidavits, pensions, or grant letters; or a death certificate if applicable
5. Any other supporting documents, like reference letters or proof of leadership engagement

Closing Date

The confirmed closing date for the previous cycle was 4 December 2024. Expect the 2026 cycle to close in December 2025. 

Submit your application only once the official closing date is announced.

Contact Details

For inquiries or clarification, contact ADSA at:

• Email: [email protected]