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 Grade 12 learners and current students pursuing full-time studies in fields related to the department’s work. The bursary can provide up to R80,000 per year to support studies in environmental management, forestry, marine biology, and more. Applications close on 02 October 2026.

Application Closing Date: 02 October 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Up to R80,000 per year
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 or current tertiary student
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the DFFE Bursaries 2027

The DFFE Full-Time Bursary Programme aims to support students who wish to study in fields that align with the department’s mandate. This includes a wide range of environmental and resource management disciplines. The bursary is designed to help cover the costs associated with tertiary education, encouraging more individuals to pursue careers in these critical sectors. It supports various levels of study, from diplomas to postgraduate degrees.

The programme focuses on developing skills and knowledge in areas such as environmental science, conservation, forestry, and marine studies. By investing in students, the DFFE hopes to build a stronger workforce capable of addressing South Africa’s environmental challenges. Successful applicants will gain financial support and the chance to contribute to important work within the department.

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 managing and protecting the country’s natural resources. It plays a key role in environmental conservation, sustainable use of forestry and fisheries resources, and ensuring compliance with environmental laws. The department works to promote a healthy environment and sustainable development for all South Africans.

DFFE is involved in various initiatives, including biodiversity protection, climate change mitigation, waste management, and promoting sustainable forestry practices. It also oversees marine and coastal management, ensuring the health of South Africa’s oceans and coastlines. The department’s work is essential for the country’s ecological well-being and economic development.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The DFFE bursary programme supports studies across several categories, each with specific fields of study. Applicants must ensure they apply under the correct reference number for their chosen field.

• Environmental Programmes (Ref: EP/01/2027): Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Biodiversity, Biology, Marine Biology, Civil Engineering, Engineering Management, GIS, Ecological Economics.
• Forestry Management (Ref: FOR/01/2027): Forestry, Advanced Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Forestry and Wood Sciences.
• Regulatory Compliance Sector Monitoring (Ref: RCSM/01/2027): LLB, LLM, BA Law, Paralegal Studies, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geoinformatics, Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Biodiversity and Conservation (Ref: B&C/01/2027): Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Sciences Management, Eco Tourism, Game Range Management, Nature Conservation, Zoology, Botany.
• Oceans and Coasts (Ref: OC/01/2027): Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Engineering (Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Communication), Oceanography (Physical, Chemical, Biological), Maritime Studies, Maritime Economics, Nature Conservation, Coastal Engineering, Coastal Planning, Climate Change, Chemistry.
• Fisheries Management (Ref: FISH/01/2027): Fisheries Science, Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Engineering, GIS, Remote Sensing, Actuarial Science, Statistics, Economics, Maritime Law, Ichthyology, Aquatic Science, Applied Mathematics, Environmental Informatics, Fisheries Economics.
• Climate Change and Air Quality Management (Ref: CCAQ/01/2027): Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Natural Science, Chemistry, Geography, Sustainable Development.
• Chemicals and Waste Management (Ref: CWM/01/2027): Chemistry, Environmental Science, Waste Management, Recycling Economy, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geography, Development Studies, Environmental Law, Environmental Education, Circular Economy, Extended Producer Responsibility, Waste as a Resource.

What the DFFE Bursary Offers

Successful applicants for the DFFE Bursary Programme can expect financial support for their studies. The bursary covers up to R80,000 per academic year, which can help with tuition fees, study materials, and other educational expenses. This funding aims to reduce the financial burden on students and their families, allowing them to focus on their academic performance.

Beyond financial assistance, the bursary programme includes a post-study commitment. Beneficiaries are required to participate in an internship programme with the department after completing their studies, as part of the bursary contract. This provides valuable work experience and an opportunity to apply their learned skills in a professional setting.

Programme Duration and Location

The DFFE Bursary Programme is open to students studying full-time across South Africa. While the specific duration of each bursary award is not detailed, it is intended to support students through their chosen diploma, degree, or postgraduate qualification. The bursary is applicable to studies undertaken at recognized institutions of higher learning within South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the DFFE Bursary Programme 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be currently in Grade 12 or enrolled full-time at a tertiary institution.
• Be unemployed.
• Be studying or intending to study full-time 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 explicitly listed, applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record and a genuine interest in environmental fields. Key qualities that would be beneficial include:

• A strong willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Good communication abilities.
• An understanding of the importance of environmental conservation.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A commitment to completing their studies and fulfilling the post-study internship requirement.

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, or sustainable resource management. If you are currently in Grade 12 and planning your tertiary education, or if you are already studying and need financial support, this opportunity could be a great fit. It is particularly suited for those who are committed to contributing to the environmental sector in South Africa.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their bursary application:

• A completed prescribed DFFE bursary application form.
• A motivation letter explaining why the bursary should be awarded to you.
• Copies of your latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Grade 12).
• Copies of your current tertiary qualifications and academic records (if already studying).
• A certified copy of your South African ID document.
• Certified copies of the ID documents of your parents or guardians.
• Proof of registration from your institution (if already studying).
• Proof of parent or guardian income.
• Proof of where parents are deceased, or an affidavit if parents are unemployed.

Ensure all documents are certified and submitted as per the application instructions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted using the official DFFE bursary application form. You can access the application form and further details by visiting the DFFE website. It is important to clearly indicate the correct field of study and the corresponding reference number on the application form.

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

Faxed and emailed applications will not be accepted. Applications can be hand-delivered or couriered to the DFFE offices in Pretoria or Cape Town, or sent via post.

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 considered.
• Ensure that all required documents are included and certified correctly.
• Double-check all personal details and the chosen field of study on the application form.
• Applicants must meet all minimum requirements to be considered.
• Read the full bursary conditions carefully before applying.

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 to avoid any last-minute issues.

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