Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursaries 2027: Up to R80,000
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students. This opportunity is for those currently in Grade 12 or studying full-time at a higher learning institution. The bursary aims to support studies in fields related to the department’s work, with a maximum value of R80,000. Applications close on 02 October 2026.
Application Closing Date: 02 October 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Up to R80,000 (maximum value)
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 or current tertiary student
Opportunity Type: Bursary
About the DFFE Bursary Programme
The DFFE Full-Time Bursary Programme is designed to support students pursuing qualifications that align with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s mandate. It covers a range of fields, from environmental management and science to forestry, marine biology, and climate change studies. The programme aims to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to the department’s environmental protection and resource management goals.
This bursary supports diploma, undergraduate degree, and selected postgraduate studies. It is a valuable opportunity for students passionate about environmental conservation, sustainable resource use, and related scientific and legal fields. Successful applicants will receive financial assistance to help cover their educational costs.
About the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is a government department in South Africa responsible for environmental affairs and natural resource management. It plays a key role in developing and implementing policies related to biodiversity, forestry, fisheries, climate change, and waste management. The department works to protect South Africa’s natural heritage and promote sustainable use of its resources.
Fields of Study Covered
The DFFE bursary supports a wide array of fields, categorized by specific reference numbers. These categories ensure that funding is directed towards critical areas of environmental and resource management.
- Environmental Programmes (EP/01/2027): Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Biodiversity, Biology, Marine Biology, Civil Engineering, Engineering Management, GIS, Ecological Economics.
- Forestry Management (FOR/01/2027): Forestry, Advanced Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Forestry and Wood Sciences.
- Regulatory Compliance Sector Monitoring (RCSM/01/2027): LLB, LLM, BA Law, Paralegal Studies, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geoinformatics, Environmental Impact Assessment.
- Biodiversity and Conservation (B&C/01/2027): Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Sciences Management, Eco Tourism, Game Range Management, Nature Conservation, Zoology, Botany.
- Oceans and Coasts (OC/01/2027): Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Oceanography, Maritime Studies, Coastal Engineering, Climate Change, Coastal Planning, Chemistry.
- Fisheries Management (FISH/01/2027): Fisheries Science, Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Engineering, GIS, Remote Sensing, Actuarial Science, Statistics, Economics.
- Climate Change and Air Quality Management (CCAQ/01/2027): Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Natural Science, Chemistry, Geography, Sustainable Development.
- Chemicals and Waste Management (CWM/01/2027): Chemistry, Environmental Science, Waste Management, Recycling Economy, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geography, Development Studies, Environmental Law.
What the Bursary Offers
The DFFE bursary provides financial support to eligible students. The maximum bursary value is R80,000. This funding is intended to assist with educational expenses such as tuition fees, books, and other study-related costs.
Successful bursary holders are also required to participate in an internship programme with the department upon completion of their studies, as per the bursary contract. This provides valuable work experience in their field.
Programme Duration and Location
The bursary is for full-time studies for the 2027 academic year. The specific duration of the bursary award will depend on the length of the chosen course of study. The bursary is open to South African citizens, and applications are accepted from across the country.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the DFFE Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Currently be in Grade 12 or enrolled full-time at a recognized institution of higher learning.
- Not be employed.
- Be studying or intend to study in one of the fields supported by the DFFE.
- Applicants who have previously participated in a Public Service Internship Programme are not eligible.
Consideration will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities who meet the requirements.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies are not detailed, a passion for environmental issues and a strong academic record are generally beneficial. Applicants should demonstrate:
- A commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
- Good academic performance.
- Willingness to learn and grow within the environmental sector.
- An understanding of the importance of the department’s work.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are passionate about environmental science, conservation, forestry, fisheries, or related fields. If you are a Grade 12 learner planning your tertiary education or a current student needing financial assistance to continue your studies in these areas, this bursary could be a great fit. It is also suited for individuals interested in a career within the public sector focused on environmental protection and resource management.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit a comprehensive application with supporting documents. These typically include:
- A completed DFFE bursary application form.
- A motivation letter explaining why the bursary should be awarded to you.
- Certified copies of your South African ID document.
- Certified copies of your latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Grade 12).
- Certified copies of your Grade 12 certificate (if completed).
- Certified copies of your tertiary qualifications and recent academic records (if already studying).
- Proof of registration from your institution of higher learning (if applicable).
- Proof of parent or guardian income.
- Proof of death if parents are deceased.
- An affidavit if parents are unemployed.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants must use the prescribed DFFE bursary application form. Ensure you clearly indicate the correct field of study and reference number on the application form.
Faxed and emailed applications will not be accepted. Applications can be submitted by hand, courier, or post.
Hand-delivery or Courier:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House
473 Steve Biko Street
Corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road
Arcadia, Pretoria
Or
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Foretrust Building
No. 3 Hammerschlag Way
Foreshore, Cape Town 8000
Postal Applications:
Attention: Learning and Development (Bursary Section)
The Director-General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X447
Pretoria 0001
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Late applications will not be considered.
- Ensure all required documents are certified and submitted correctly.
- Read the full bursary conditions carefully before applying.
- Applicants who have previously participated in a Public Service Internship Programme are not eligible.
Closing Date
The closing date for the DFFE Bursary Programme 2027 applications is 02 October 2026. Ensure your application is submitted well before this date.
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