Cape Wools SA (CWSA) is the official representative organization for the South African wool industry. It is a non-profit organization that promotes the production, trade, and consumption of high-quality South African Merino wool. Its mission is to support the industry through research, development, promotion, and market intelligence. It ensures high standards for South African wool, which is known for its uniformity, quality, and softness. The organization oversees certifications such as the Sustainable Cape Wool Standard.

The Cape Wools SA Bursary, through the Wool Industry Bursary Trust, provides funding to South African students pursuing studies related to the textile, fashion, or wool industry. The bursary aims to promote growth, innovation, and sustainability within South Africa’s wool sector by supporting young talent with a passion for wool and sheep-focused disciplines

Fields of Study Covered

Bursaries will be awarded for studies in:

• Textile Design
• Fashion Design
• Wool Industry-related programmes
• Sheep or wool-focused directions (including Agricultural Colleges)

Students whose academic or research work directly contributes to the wool value chain are strongly encouraged to apply.

What the Bursary Covers

Depending on the decision of Cape Wools SA (CWSA), the bursary may cover:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Prescribed books and study materials

Grootfontein Agricultural College students: The bursary may also provide up to R20 000 per student for on-farm practical training, payable to the farmer to offset costs (if required by the institution).

Bursary Renewal & Selection Criteria

• Bursaries are awarded based on academic merit and reviewed every six months.
• Renewal is not automatic — recipients must comply with institutional requirements and maintain satisfactory academic performance.
• Students will be required to complete up to 4 weeks of vacation work per year on an active wool farm.
• Upon graduation, beneficiaries must seek employment for one year within the wool or related industry for each year of funding received.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be studying or intending to study towards a qualification in Textile or Fashion Design with a wool focus
• Must meet all institutional admission requirements
• Final year collection must include garments made of at least 50% wool
• Master’s degree students must focus on wool and its applications
• Preference will be given to students studying at an Agricultural College or tertiary institution in a wool- or sheep-related field
• Preference will also be given to students in 3rd year or higher (Honours, Masters, or PhD level)
• Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged students
• Applicants must agree to all terms and conditions stated on the application form

Additional criteria for Grootfontein Agricultural College students:

• Must intend to specialise in wool (Merino production unit) in 3rd year (if applying for bursary funding in 1st or 2nd year)
• Must maintain satisfactory academic progress and comply with the college’s regulations for bursary continuation

Required Supporting Documents

Submit certified copies of the following documents along with your completed application form:

• South African ID document
• Most recent academic results (Matric certificate or tertiary record)
• Proof of tertiary registration (on institutional letterhead)
• Proof of permanent residence
• Details of any other bursaries received or applied for
• Motivational letter explaining why you are a suitable candidate

How to Apply

Download and complete the application form: Cape Wools SA Bursary Fund Application Form 2026 (PDF)

Submit your application in one of the following ways:

Email: bursaries@capewools.co.za
(Use the subject line: “Cape Wools Bursary 2026”)

Post:
The Chief Executive Officer
Cape Wools SA
P.O. Box 2191
North End
Port Elizabeth
6056