DFFE Bursaries 2027: Funding for Environmental Studies Up to R80,000

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursaries 2027: Up to R80,000

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is inviting applications for its 2027 Full-Time Bursary Programme. This opportunity is for South African Grade 12 learners and students currently studying full-time in fields related to the department’s work. Successful applicants can receive up to R80,000 to support their studies.

Application Closing Date: 02 October 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Up to R80,000
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the DFFE Bursary Programme

The DFFE Full-Time Bursary Programme aims to support students pursuing qualifications that align with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s mandate. This initiative helps develop skills and knowledge within critical environmental sectors in South Africa. The bursary covers a range of study levels, from diplomas to postgraduate degrees.

The programme focuses on fields that contribute to environmental management, conservation, and sustainable resource use. It is designed to attract and support talented individuals who will contribute to the department’s mission of protecting and managing South Africa’s natural resources. This includes areas like biodiversity, forestry, oceans, and climate change.

About the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is a government department responsible for managing and protecting South Africa’s natural resources. It works to ensure the sustainable use of forests, fisheries, and the environment for the benefit of all citizens. The department plays a key role in policy development and environmental protection initiatives.

DFFE’s work spans across various sectors, including environmental management, biodiversity conservation, climate change response, and the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources. They are committed to environmental sustainability and the development of green economy initiatives.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The DFFE bursary programme supports a wide array of fields of study. Applicants should ensure their chosen field aligns with the categories listed below and the department’s overall mandate.

• Environmental Programmes: Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Biodiversity, Biology, Marine Biology, Civil Engineering, Engineering Management, GIS, Ecological Economics.
• Forestry Management: Forestry, Advanced Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Forestry and Wood Sciences.
• Regulatory Compliance Sector Monitoring: LLB, LLM, BA Law, Paralegal Studies, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geoinformatics, Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Biodiversity and Conservation: Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Sciences Management, Eco Tourism, Game Range Management, Nature Conservation, Zoology, Botany.
• Oceans and Coasts: Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Engineering (Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Communication), Oceanography, Maritime Studies, Coastal Engineering, Climate Change, Coastal Planning, Chemistry.
• Fisheries Management: Fisheries Science, Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Engineering, GIS, Remote Sensing, Actuarial Science, Statistics, Economics.
• Climate Change and Air Quality Management: Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Natural Science, Chemistry, Geography, Sustainable Development.
• Chemicals and Waste Management: Chemistry, Environmental Science, Waste Management, Recycling Economy, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geography, Development Studies, Environmental Law.

What the Bursary Offers

Successful bursary recipients will benefit from financial support towards their studies. The programme aims to cover educational expenses for eligible students.

• Financial support up to a maximum of R80,000.
• Opportunity to study in fields critical to environmental management and conservation.
• Potential for future involvement in public service internship programmes upon completion of studies.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary programme is for full-time studies during the 2027 academic year. The specific duration of study will depend on the chosen qualification. The bursary is available to South African citizens, and successful applicants will study at institutions within South Africa.

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 recognised institution of higher learning.
• Be unemployed.
• Be studying or intend to study full-time in one of the fields supported by the DFFE.
• Consideration will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities who meet the requirements.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed, applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental issues and a desire to contribute to conservation efforts. Good academic performance and a clear motivation for their chosen field of study are important.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are passionate about environmental issues and wish to pursue a career in fields such as environmental management, conservation, forestry, or marine sciences. If you are a Grade 12 learner with excellent results or a current student seeking financial aid for your studies in these areas, you are encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• 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.
• Certified copies of your latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Grade 12).
• Certified copies of your qualifications and recent academic records (if already studying).
• Proof of registration from your institution (if currently studying).
• Proof of parent or guardian income.
• Proof of death certificates if parents are deceased.
• An affidavit if parents are unemployed.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Applicants must use the official DFFE bursary application form. Ensure you clearly indicate the correct field of study and reference number on the form.

Click here to apply for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary Programme 2027.

Applications can be submitted in person or via courier to the addresses provided below, or by post. Faxed and emailed applications will not be accepted.

Pretoria Address:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House
473 Steve Biko Street
Corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road
Arcadia
Pretoria

Cape Town Address:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Foretrust Building
No. 3 Hammerschlag Way
Foreshore
Cape Town
8000

Postal Address:
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 accepted.
• Applicants must ensure all required documents are submitted correctly.
• Applicants who have previously participated in a Public Service Internship Programme are not eligible.
• Successful bursary beneficiaries are required to participate in an internship programme after completing their studies as part of the bursary contract.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 02 October 2026. Ensure your application is submitted well before this date.

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