The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in South Africa is offering a comprehensive bursary programme for full-time students and Grade 12 learners applying for studies in the 2027 academic year. This bursary is aimed at supporting students pursuing qualifications in a wide range of environmental and related fields, with funding of up to R80,000.
About the Bursary Programme
The DFFE bursary programme provides financial support for studies ranging from diplomas and undergraduate degrees to honours, master’s, and PhD qualifications in areas such as environmental science, forestry, fisheries, marine science, engineering, law, climate change, waste management, GIS, and conservation among others. This initiative targets South African citizens who are either currently in Grade 12 or enrolled full-time at a higher education institution.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens currently in Grade 12 (Matric) or full-time students enrolled at higher learning institutions.
- Applicants must be unemployed.
- Preference is given to historically disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities.
Requirements
- A minimum academic qualification equivalent to Grade 12 (Matric).
- Applicants must clearly indicate the relevant study field and bursary reference number on their application.
- Applicants should not have previously participated in the public service internship programme associated with the bursary.
- Participation in the DFFE internship programme after completing studies is mandatory under the bursary contract.
Fields of Study
The bursary supports seven main categories with specific study programmes including but not limited to:
- Environmental Programmes: BSc and postgraduate degrees in Environmental Management, Conservation Ecology, Marine Biology, Engineering Management and more.
- Forestry Management: Diplomas and degrees in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, and Wood Sciences.
- Regulatory Compliance Sector Monitoring: Law degrees focusing on environmental law, paralegal studies, GIS, and environmental impact assessment.
- Biodiversity and Conservation: Nature conservation, eco-tourism, zoology, and botany qualifications.
- Oceans and Coasts: Marine biology, engineering, oceanography, maritime studies, and coastal management.
- Fisheries Management: Marine and fisheries science, engineering, economics, and related disciplines.
- Climate Change and Air Quality Management: Environmental science, sustainable development, chemistry, and natural sciences.
- Chemicals and Waste Management: Environmental law, waste management, recycling economy, chemical and civil engineering.
Application Details and Closing Date
Applications must be submitted using the prescribed DFFE bursary application form, which is obtainable from the DFFE bursaries portal. The completed forms must be accompanied by a range of supporting documents including motivation letters, academic records, proof of registration or matric results, identity documents, and proof of parental income or status.
Applications can be hand-delivered or couriered to the DFFE offices in Pretoria or Cape Town. Postal applications should be addressed to the Director-General at the Department’s Pretoria address. Email and faxed applications are not accepted.
The deadline for submission is 2 October 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Important Considerations Before Applying
Applicants should carefully select their study field and refer to the correct bursary reference number as stated in the official bursary categories. It is critical to prepare a complete application package including all required documentation to avoid disqualification. Additionally, students should view this bursary as part of a broader career development plan which includes compulsory participation in a government internship programme after graduation.
How to Apply
The official application form and detailed bursary information can be accessed via the DFFE Bursaries Portal. Ensure the reference number for your chosen field of study is clearly stated on the application form.
Application submission addresses:
- Pretoria (hand-delivery/courier): Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Street, Cnr Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road, Arcadia, Pretoria.
- Cape Town (hand-delivery/courier): 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.
Contact Information
Applicants seeking clarification can contact the following:
- Pretoria: Joshua Moepya (012) 399 8682, Busisiwe Stemele (012) 399 8685, Mokhobo Putu (012) 399 9018.
- Cape Town: Kgomotso Moela 081 492 5570, Neliswa Magwala 066 081 9858, Tumeka Madolo 071 607 2014.
- General DFFE Call Centre: +27 86 111 2468.
