VKB Bursary Programme 2027 Opens for Grade 12 Learners and University Students
The VKB Group, one of South Africa’s leading agribusinesses, has officially opened applications for its VKB Bursary Programme 2027. The bursary aims to support academically strong Grade 12 learners and university students pursuing qualifications aligned with South Africa’s agriculture, engineering, commerce, and business sectors.
Beyond financial assistance, successful bursary recipients may benefit from vacation work, professional mentorship, industry exposure, and potential employment opportunities with VKB after completing their studies.
Applications opened on 1 July 2026 and close on 31 August 2026
Opportunity Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | VKB Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Organisation | VKB Group |
| Programme Type | Bursary |
| Academic Intake | January 2027 |
| Opening Date | 1 July 2026 |
| Closing Date | 31 August 2026 |
| Location | South Africa |
| Study Level | Grade 12 Learners & University Students |
| Work Experience | Vacation Work |
| Employment Opportunity | Possible Work-Back Agreement |
Fields of Study Funded
The VKB Bursary supports students studying the following qualifications:
Bachelor of Commerce in Chartered Accountancy
Career opportunities include:
- Chartered Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Manager
- Tax Specialist
- Corporate Finance Professional
Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying
Career opportunities include:
- Quantity Surveyor
- Construction Cost Consultant
- Infrastructure Development Specialist
- Commercial Construction Professional
Bachelor of Science (Mechanical Engineering) or Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical)
Graduates may work in:
- Agricultural Machinery
- Manufacturing
- Industrial Engineering
- Plant Maintenance
- Equipment Design
- Production Systems
BCom Economic Sciences
Specialisations include:
- International Trade
- Marketing
Possible careers include:
- Business Development
- Export Management
- Commercial Strategy
- Marketing Management
BCom Agricultural Economics with Risk Management or BSc Agricultural Economics
Career opportunities include:
- Agricultural Economist
- Agribusiness Consultant
- Farm Management Specialist
- Commodity Markets Analyst
- Agricultural Finance Professional
- Risk Management Specialist
Eligibility Requirements
Grade 12 Learners
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Obtain a National Senior Certificate.
- Achieve a minimum overall average of 70%.
- Submit Grade 11 results.
- Submit current Grade 12 results.
University Students
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled at an accredited South African university.
- Study one of the approved qualifications.
- Achieve at least 60% in major subjects.
- Submit a full academic record, including 2026 results.
Additional Requirements
Successful applicants should be willing to:
- Complete vacation work at a VKB regional office.
- Relocate after graduation if employment opportunities arise.
- Fulfil any work-back obligations linked to the bursary.
- Communicate effectively in both English and Afrikaans.
What the Bursary Offers
While the value of each bursary may vary, recipients may receive:
- Financial assistance for approved studies
- Vacation work opportunities
- Professional mentorship
- Industry exposure
- Workplace experience
- Career development support
- Potential permanent employment after graduation
Required Documents Checklist
Grade 12 Applicants
- South African ID
- Grade 11 Results
- Current Grade 12 Results
University Students
- South African ID
- Complete Academic Record
- Latest 2026 University Results
Important: Upload all documents in PDF format.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the VKB bursary application portal.
- Select the bursary that matches your qualification.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required PDF documents.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before 31 August 2026.
APPLY FOR THE BACHELOR OF COMMERCE IN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANCY BURSARY HERE
APPLY FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN QUANTITY SURVEYING BURSARY HERE
APPLY FOR THE BCOM ECONOMIC SCIENCES (INTERNATIONAL TRADE OR MARKETING) BURSARY HERE
Applicants are advised to use Google Chrome when completing the online application.
Closing Date
Applications close on 31 August 2026.
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The VKB Bursary Programme offers more than financial support. Successful applicants can:
- Reduce the financial burden of university studies.
- Gain practical workplace experience through vacation work.
- Build professional networks within the agricultural sector.
- Receive mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Improve employability after graduation.
- Potentially secure long-term employment with the VKB Group.
Career Pathways After Graduation
Depending on your qualification, this bursary can help prepare you for careers such as:
- Chartered Accountant
- Financial Manager
- Mechanical Engineer
- Quantity Surveyor
- Agricultural Economist
- Marketing Specialist
- International Trade Specialist
- Agribusiness Consultant
- Risk Management Analyst
- Business Development Manager
Related Opportunity
Youthscope
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
South African Grade 12 learners and university students studying approved qualifications.
What is the closing date?
31 August 2026.
Which qualifications qualify?
- BCom Chartered Accountancy
- BSc Quantity Surveying
- BSc/BEng Mechanical Engineering
- BCom Economic Sciences (International Trade or Marketing)
- BCom Agricultural Economics with Risk Management
- BSc Agricultural Economics
Is vacation work compulsory?
Yes. Successful bursary recipients must complete vacation work at a VKB regional office.
Is relocation required?
Applicants must be willing to relocate after graduation if employment opportunities arise.
What academic average is required?
- Grade 12 learners: 70% overall average
- University students: 60% average in major subjects
Can first-year university students apply?
Yes, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Expert Guidance (E-E-A-T – Mbalizuke Nkosi)
Career Advice by Mbalizuke Nkosi
“The VKB Bursary Programme is an excellent opportunity for academically strong students who want to build careers in agriculture, engineering, finance, and commerce. Before applying, ensure your academic records are complete, upload clear PDF documents, and double-check every section of your application. Applying early gives you time to correct any issues before the closing date and demonstrates strong organisational skills.”
Disclaimer
This article is published for informational purposes to help South African students discover verified bursary opportunities. The VKB Group determines all eligibility requirements, selection criteria, funding, and work-back obligations. Applicants should consult the official VKB bursary advertisement and application portal for the latest information before submitting an application.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
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