The deadline for the DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027 is fast approaching, and it could be the financial help you need to study land surveying, geomatics, GIS, town planning or rural development.
What is the DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027?
The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) offers this bursary to support South African students who want to study in specific fields related to land administration and spatial planning. The aim is to create skilled professionals who can help with land reform, mapping, and rural development.
Who can apply?
You must be a South African citizen and choose a qualification that appears on the approved list. The bursary is open to:
- Grade 12 learners
- Current university students
- TVET graduates moving to university
- Post‑graduate students
- Applicants from rural or previously disadvantaged backgrounds
- People with disabilities
Academic requirements differ by programme:
- BSc programmes – Mathematics Level 5 (60‑69%) and Physical Science or Geography Level 5 (60‑69%)
- Other Bachelor and Diploma programmes – Mathematics Level 4 (50‑59%) and Physical Science Level 4 (50‑59%)
Make sure you also meet the admission criteria of your chosen institution.
What you gain
If you are selected, the bursary can cover most study costs, allowing you to focus on learning.
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals
- Living allowance
The amount paid depends on the department’s available funding and final allocation decisions.
Supported fields of study
Only the following qualifications are funded:
Bachelor’s degrees
- BSc Land Surveying
- BSc Geomatics
- BSc Town and Regional Planning
- BSc Urban and Regional Planning
- BSc Geo‑informatics
- BSc Geographic Information Science
- Bachelor of Geomatics
- Bachelor of Surveying
- Bachelor of Town and Urban Planning
- Bachelor of Regional Planning
Diplomas
- Diploma in Geomatics
- Diploma in Surveying
- Diploma in Geographic Information Systems
- Diploma in Town and Regional Planning
- Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning
Post‑graduate studies (if aligned with DLRRD research priorities)
- Advanced Diploma
- Honours
- Master’s degree
- Doctoral studies
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all required documents (see the list below).
- Check that your chosen programme is on the approved list.
- Visit the official online application form.
- Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Upload clear, readable copies of each document.
- Review every answer, then submit the form before the deadline.
- If you receive a request for additional information, respond promptly.
Documents you need
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results (Grade 12 or university transcript)
- Grade 12 certificate (if you have completed it)
- University acceptance letter or proof of registration (if applicable)
- Certified copies of any relevant certificates
- Other documents requested on the application form
All files must be clear and legible. Verify that your name and ID number match on every document.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your field of study matches the approved list exactly. Small spelling differences can cause rejection.
- Submit your application well before 30 September 2026. Late submissions may encounter technical glitches.
- Provide all required documents, even if you are still waiting for final university results. Upload the missing files as soon as they arrive.
- Proofread your form for errors. Inconsistent information can delay processing.
- If you have a disability, include any relevant certificates – the department encourages disability applicants.
Final thoughts
The DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027 offers substantial financial support for students interested in land surveying, geomatics, GIS, town planning and related fields. It can cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, meals and a living allowance, removing a major barrier to study.
Make sure you are a South African citizen, meet the academic thresholds, and apply for an approved qualification. Prepare your documents early, follow the steps carefully, and submit before 30 September 2026.