FoodBev SETA Bursary Requirements and Online Application

The FoodBev SETA bursary scheme is part of the SETA’s drive to build critical skills in South Africa’s food and beverages manufacturing sector. 

It supports students at various levels (TVET, undergraduate, postgraduate) whose studies align with the food & beverage value chain. 

Eligibility requirements for the FoodBev SETA Bursary

1. Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
2. For the postgraduate (Master’s/PhD) stream: Must be registered or accepted at a recognised public university for a Master’s or Doctorate degree.
3. Research topics must relate to the food and beverages manufacturing value chain (for postgraduate stream).
4. For the undergraduate/TVET stream: Students must be registered at a public university or TVET college for full-time study in eligible programmes, and must meet income threshold criteria (parents’/guardians’ combined annual income < R650,000, in some cases) for the unemployed learner stream.
5. Applicants must not hold another bursary for the same level of study in many cases.
6. Preference is given to students from previously disadvantaged groups and persons with disabilities.

Application process for the FoodBev SETA Bursary

1. Download the application form from the FoodBev SETA website (for postgraduate research bursary) or via the institution for undergraduate/TVET bursaries.
2. Complete the form and attach supporting certified documents: ID copy, proof of registration or acceptance, academic record, approved research proposal (for postgraduate), proof of income threshold (for undergraduate/TVET stream) etc.
3. The university or TVET college bursary office normally submits the application on behalf of the student (especially for postgraduate research bursary).
4. Submit the application forms and supporting documents can be emailed tol: ResearchBursaries@FoodBev.co.za.

Closing date for the FoodBev SETA Bursary

The 2026/2026 postgraduate research bursary stream closed on 06 December 2026.

Contact details for the FoodBev SETA Bursary

• General enquiries: +27 11 253 7300
• Email: info@foodbev.co.za / ResearchBursaries@FoodBev.co.za
• Contacts: Mr Collin Mshayisa – 011 253 7322; Mr Mondi Makhubu – 011 253 7343 for bursary-related queries.
• Website: www.foodbev.co.za

For postgraduate research bursary: Master’s up to R120,000 total (for full duration) and PhD up to R150,000 total.

For undergraduate/TVET unemployed learner funding stream: The grant covers tuition fees, books, accommodation and meals, up to a maximum of R120,000 in some cases.

Students must submit annual progress reports (especially for postgraduate) signed by their supervisor. If subjects are failed, funding may not continue.

The bursary is highly competitive and funding is subject to availability, the SETA’s priorities and policy. 

Applicants should ensure they meet the sector-relevant research or programme requirement.

FAQs