The DFFE Bursary Programme is open for applications now, and you have until 2 October 2026 to apply for up to R80 000 in funding. This is a chance to start or continue your studies in the environmental and natural‑resource sectors.
What the DFFE Bursary Programme 2027 offers
The bursary can cover study costs up to a maximum of R80 000. The amount you receive will depend on the specific funding arrangement for your chosen qualification. Funding is available for:
- Diploma and undergraduate programmes
- Honours and Master’s degrees
- Selected doctoral (PhD) studies
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following conditions:
- You are either a Grade 12 learner preparing for higher education or a full‑time student at a recognised institution.
- You are currently unemployed.
- Your chosen qualification falls within one of the approved fields of study (see the list below).
- You are a South African citizen and can provide the required identity documents.
- People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- You have not previously taken part in the public‑service internship programme.
Approved fields of study
Funding is linked to specific categories. Match your exact qualification to the correct category before you start the form.
- Biodiversity and Conservation – Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Sciences Management, Ecotourism, Game Range Management, Nature Conservation, Zoology, Botany.
- Chemicals and Waste Management – Chemistry, Waste Management, Environmental Law, LLB, LLM, Administrative Law.
- Climate Change and Air Quality Management – Climate Change, Air Quality, Environmental Engineering.
- Environmental Programmes – Conservation Ecology, Biodiversity, Biology, Marine Biology, Civil Engineering, GIS, Ecological Economics.
- Fisheries Management – Oceanography, Marine Biology, Ichthyology, Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Aquatic Science, Fisheries Economics, Agricultural Economics.
- Forestry Management – Diploma in Forestry, Advanced Diploma in Forestry, BSc Forestry, Honours in Natural Resource Management, BSc Forestry and Wood Sciences.
- Oceans and Coasts – Marine Science, Coastal Engineering, Environmental Economics, Coastal‑Management pathways.
- Regulatory Compliance & Sector Monitoring – Law related qualifications, Environmental Management, Administrative Law.
What you can gain
- Financial support up to R80 000 to cover tuition, books and related costs.
- Eligibility for a mandatory internship after you finish your studies, providing on‑the‑job experience.
- Opportunities to study at diploma, bachelor, honours, master’s or PhD level in high‑demand environmental fields.
- Improved career prospects in South Africa’s growing green economy.
How to apply – step by step
- Confirm that your qualification matches one of the funded categories listed above.
- Download the official application form from the DFFE bursaries portal.
- Gather all required supporting documents:
- Motivation letter explaining why you should receive the bursary.
- Copies of your qualification certificates (or proof of registration if already studying).
- Recent academic transcripts.
- Your South African ID and copies of both parents’ or guardians’ IDs.
- Proof of parents’/guardians’ income, or proof of death/unemployment where applicable.
- Latest Grade 12 results (if you are still in school).
- Complete the form, making sure to:
- Enter the correct study‑field reference number.
- Select the exact funding category that matches your qualification.
- Provide accurate contact details.
- Submit the completed form and all documents either:
- By hand or courier to the Pretoria address:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Environment House 473 Steve Biko Street Corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road Arcadia, Pretoria
- Or to the Cape Town address:
- Or by post to:
- Make sure the package arrives before the deadline on 2 October 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Foretrust Building 3 Hammerschlag Way Foreshore, Cape Town 8000
Attention: Learning and Development (Bursary Section) The Director-General Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Private Bag X447 Pretoria 0001
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check the study‑field reference number on the form; an incorrect number can disqualify a strong application.
- Tailor your motivation letter: explain what you will study, why you chose it, your career goals, and how the qualification will benefit the sector.
- Submit a complete set of documents the first time; incomplete applications are rejected.
- Keep your phone and email active; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Start gathering documents early to avoid last‑minute stress.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, download the form today, prepare your documents, and send your application before the deadline. This bursary can fund your studies and open doors to a rewarding career in South Africa’s environmental and natural‑resource fields.