Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DALRRD) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide of Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DALRRD) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about agriculture, environmental sustainability, or food security? The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (now known as the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development – DALRRD) Bursary 2026/2027 is now open for applications. This prestigious government-funded bursary aims to support talented and deserving students who wish to pursue studies in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and related fields that contribute to the nation’s economic growth and rural development.
The DALRRD Bursary Programme 2026/2027 provides financial assistance to undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing degrees or diplomas in areas such as crop science, animal production, agricultural economics, environmental studies, forestry management, aquaculture, and rural development. Through this initiative, the Department seeks to develop a new generation of skilled professionals who will drive innovation and sustainability within South Africa’s vital agricultural and natural resource sectors.
By applying for the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DALRRD) Bursary, students gain access to full or partial funding that may cover tuition, accommodation, study materials, and living expenses. Successful applicants also benefit from opportunities for experiential training and career placement within the department after graduation.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the DALRRD Bursary 2026/2027, including eligibility criteria, supported fields of study, how to apply, and the official closing date.
About Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) was established in 2019 following the merger of two government departments. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR).
DALRRD’s mission is to promote food security, equitable land access, and sustainable agriculture, while driving integrated rural development across South Africa. The department plays a critical role in ensuring that the country’s agricultural sector grows in a way that benefits all citizens, particularly those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
About the DALRRD Bursary Programme 2026/2027
The DALRRD Bursary Programme is an initiative aimed at supporting talented and deserving students who wish to pursue Undergraduate studies in agricultural sciences and related fields.
Bursaries are available for the following study areas:
- Agriculture-related fields (Advanced Diploma)
- Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng)
- Agronomy (BSc Agric)
- Animal Science (BSc Agric)
- Entomology (BSc Agric)
- Food Science (BSc Agric)
- Food Science and Technology (BAS)
- Food Technology (Diploma)
- Plant Pathology (BSc Agric)
- Soil Science (BSc Agric)
- Veterinary Science (BVSc)
- Viticulture and Oenology (BSc Agric)
This bursary is part of DALRRD’s commitment to developing skilled professionals who will contribute to the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s agricultural sector.
What the DALRRD Bursary Covers
The DALRRD bursary is comprehensive and covers the following study-related costs:
- Full tuition fees
- Books and study materials
- Accommodation and meals
- A monthly allowance for living expenses
The number of bursaries awarded each year depends on budget availability within the department.
Successful applicants will be contacted within 14 days after the release of final Matric results. If you don’t receive feedback within two weeks after results are announced, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements for DALRRD Bursary Application 2026/2027
To qualify for the DALRRD Bursary 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Must intend to study full-time towards one of the approved undergraduate qualifications listed above in 2026
- Must be accepted or intend to study at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Must be from a previously disadvantaged or impoverished background
- Must come from a rural or poverty-stricken community
- Must not be a staff member of the DALRRD
Academic requirements based on field of study:
- For Food Science and Technology (BAS) and Food Technology (Diploma):
- Minimum of Level 4 (50–59%) in Mathematics and Physical Science
- For Agronomy, Animal Science, Entomology, Food Science, Plant Pathology, Soil Science, and Viticulture & Oenology:
- Minimum of Level 5 (60–69%) in Mathematics and Physical Science
- For Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng) and Veterinary Science (BVSc):
- Minimum of Level 6 (70–79%) in Mathematics and Physical Science
Note: Students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the DALRRD Bursary 2026/2027
To apply, download and complete the DALRRD Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf). Click here to download the application form
Once completed, email your application and all required documents to: Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za
Required supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest Matric results
- Certified copy of your full academic record, if currently studying
- University acceptance letter, if available
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ death certificates, if applicable
- Certified proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (latest payslips, unemployment confirmation from the Department of Labour, or SASSA confirmation letter)
If you have not yet received your Matric results or university acceptance letter, you may still apply and submit the missing documents within three days after the release of Grade 12 results in January 2026.
Closing Date for DALRRD Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Ensure that all required documents are included and submitted before the deadline.
Contact Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
For queries about the DALRRD Bursary Programme 2026, contact the department directly:
- Email: Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za
- Contact persons:
-
- Ms. Silindelo Dlomo – 012 319 7848
- Ms. Bongiwe Shabalala – 012 319 7136
- Mr. Sifiso Nkuna – 012 319 7201
