South African Association for Food Science and Technology invites eligible postgraduate students to apply for the SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant for the 2026 academic year.
Scholarship Application Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Scholarship Location: South Africa (Approved Universities and Universities of Technology)
This prestigious study grant supports academically strong students pursuing postgraduate studies in Food Science and Food Technology.
About SAAFoST
The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) is a non-profit professional association serving South Africa’s food and allied industries. With approximately 2 000 members across Southern Africa, SAAFoST promotes:
- Scientific research
- Professional development
- Workshops and seminars
- Educational advancement in food science
The SAAFoST Foundation manages academic bursaries, awards and prizes, including the Aubrey Parsons Study Grant.
About the Aubrey Parsons Study Grant 2026
The SAAFoST Foundation invites applications for the Aubrey Parsons Study Grant for students pursuing:
- BSc (Hons) in Food Science (at Universities), or
- BTech in Food Technology (at Universities of Technology)
Approved Institutions and Departments
Departments of Food Science:
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of Venda
- University of the Free State
Departments of Food Technology:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
Only students studying full-time within these departments may be considered.
Grant Value
The Aubrey Parsons Study Grant is valued at:
R20 000 per student
Important notes:
- This is a once-off total award
- The amount remains R20 000 regardless of study duration
- Payment is made directly to the institution toward tuition fees
- Selection is based primarily on academic excellence
Final selection decisions are made by the SAAFoST Foundation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Must have been a SAAFoST member for at least 12 months prior to applying
- Must be studying full-time at one of the approved institutions
- Must be pursuing:
- BSc (Hons) in Food Science (University), or
- BTech in Food Technology (University of Technology)
- Must have a strong academic record
- Must maintain a minimum overall average of 70% in previous academic years
Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.
How to Apply
Students cannot apply directly.
Applications must be submitted by the approved tertiary institutions only.
Application Process:
- Department Heads must nominate eligible students
- Each institution may nominate only one candidate
- Awards cannot be shared or transferred
If you meet the requirements, contact your Department Head and request nomination.
Required Supporting Documents:
- Proof of SAAFoST membership
- Proof of full-time registration at an approved institution
- Complete academic record for all previous years
Applications must be submitted using the official nomination form (PDF or DOCX format).
Submission Details
Applications must be emailed to:
SAAFoST Membership Development Officer
Email: irene@saafost.org.za
Subject Line: SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant Application
Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Contact Details
For any queries related to the study grant, contact:
SAAFoST Membership Development Officer
Tel: 071 870 2633
Email: irene@saafost.org.za
Why This Grant Matters
Food Science and Food Technology play a vital role in:
- Food safety and quality
- Innovation in food production
- Nutritional research
- Strengthening South Africa’s food industry
If you are academically strong and committed to advancing in the food science field, this grant can provide meaningful financial support toward your postgraduate studies.
Meta Description (For Rank Math SEO)
SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant 2026 worth R20 000 for BSc (Hons) and BTech Food Science/Technology students. Closing date 27 February 2026.