Established in 1940, the South African National Seed Organization Bursary (SANSOR) plays a big role in upholding the integrity and quality of South Africa’s seed industry.

Knowing how important training skilled professionals is to the country, they offer postgraduate bursaries for ambitious minds dedicated to advancing the field.

About the South African National Seed Organization Bursary

This competitive program financially supports Honours, Masters, and Doctorate degrees in fields crucial to the seed industry’s growth and sustainability. These include:

  1. Plant Breeding
  2. Plant Pathology
  3. Entomology
  4. Agronomy
  5. Horticulture
  6. Pasture Science
  7. Biotechnology
  8. Plant Physiology
  9. Genetics
  10. Molecular Plant Biology

Beyond financial support, SANSOR empowers their bursary recipients through:

  1. Workshops: Develop employability skills through valuable “soft skills” training.
  2. Field trips: Gain firsthand experience at seed companies and deepen your understanding of the industry.
  3. Networking opportunities: Connect with established professionals and build connections for future career success.

South African National Seed Organization Bursary Application Form

Applications for the SANSOR Bursary are normally brought to a close in September each year.

You can access the online application form and detailed guidelines on the SANSOR website.

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for your application:

  1. Completed application form: Ensure all sections are filled accurately and comprehensively.
  2. Certified copies of academic qualifications: Transcripts and certificates from previous studies.
  3. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic achievements, relevant work experience, and extracurricular activities.
  4. Research proposal (applicable for Masters and Doctorate applicants): Outline your proposed research topic and its potential impact on the seed industry.
  5. Motivational letter: Express your passion for the field and explain how the bursary will help you achieve your career goals.

Applications must be submitted via email to: [email protected] and [email protected]

Use the phase “SANSOR Bursary Application 2024” as your email subject.

The South African National Seed Organization Bursary Requirements

To qualify for the South African National Seed Organization bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African citizenship or permanent residency.
  2. Registered for a postgraduate degree (Honours, Masters, or Doctorate) in a field covered by the program.
  3. Minimum average of 70% for your previous degree.
  4. Demonstrated financial need.
  5. Commitment to working in the seed industry for a minimum of two years after graduation.

The South African National Seed Organization Bursary Closing Date

Applications for the SANSOR Bursary typically close in September each year. However, the exact date may vary slightly from year to year.

The closing date for the just ended application cycle for the 2024 academic year was 30 September 2023.

It’s good to keep an eye on the SANSOR website or any other trusted platforms like this one for the latest updates and deadlines.

You can reach SANSOR through phone call at 012 472 9512 / 012 472 9500 for any inquiries related to the bursary program.

You can also send them an email directly at [email protected].