If you want to start a career in the environment, forestry, marine science, engineering, law or any related field, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is offering a major bursary for the 2027 academic year – and the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the DFFE Full‑Time Bursary Programme 2027?
The DFFE is funding full‑time studies from diplomas up to PhDs in a wide range of subjects that support South Africa’s natural resources and climate goals. The bursary can be worth up to R80 000 per student.
Who can apply?
- South African citizens who are either:
- Current Grade 12 learners (Matric) — must not be employed, or
- Full‑time students at a recognised university or TVET college.
- Applicants must be South‑African citizens, previously disadvantaged or people with disabilities are given special consideration.
- You must not have taken part in the DFFE public‑service internship before.
- All applicants must be unemployed while studying.
What can you gain?
- Financial help of up to R80 000 per year.
- Access to practical experience through a mandatory internship after graduation.
- Opportunities to work in government, research, conservation, engineering or legal sectors.
- Support for studies at diploma, degree, Honours, Master’s or PhD level.
Fields of study and reference numbers
The bursary covers seven main categories. Use the correct reference number on your application.
- Environmental Programmes – Ref: EP/01/2027
- BSc / Honours / MSc in Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Conservation Ecology, Marine Biology, Engineering Management, GIS, Ecological Economics.
- Forestry Management – Ref: FOR/01/2027
- Diploma, Advanced Diploma, BSc, Honours in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Wood Sciences.
- Regulatory Compliance & Law – Ref: RCSM/01/2027
- LLB, LLM, BA Law, Paralegal Diplomas, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Environmental Impact Assessment.
- Biodiversity & Conservation – Ref: B&C/01/2027
- ND/BA in Environmental Management, BSc Natural Sciences, Eco‑Tourism, Nature Conservation, Zoology, Botany.
- Oceans & Coasts – Ref: OC/01/2027
- Marine Biology, Oceanography, Coastal Engineering, Marine Economics, Climate Change, Maritime Studies, and related engineering disciplines.
- Fisheries Management – Ref: FISH/01/2027
- Maritime Law, Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Ichthyology, Environmental Science, GIS, Actuarial Science, Engineering and related economics.
- Climate Change & Air Quality – Ref: CCAQ/01/2027
- ND/BSc in Environmental Science or Management, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Geography, Sustainable Development.
- Chemicals & Waste Management – Ref: CWM/01/2027
- Chemistry, Environmental Management, Waste Management, Circular Economy, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Law.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the official DFFE bursary application form from the department’s website.
- Choose the exact field of study you want to pursue and note the matching reference number.
- Gather all required documents:
- Motivation letter.
- Certified copies of your Matric results or university transcripts.
- Identity document of yourself and of both parents/guardians.
- Proof of registration (if already enrolled).
- Proof of parents’ income, or affidavit of unemployment, or death certificates if applicable.
- Complete the form, clearly writing the reference number and field of study.
- Submit the application in person or by courier to one of the addresses below. Do not email or fax the application.
Submission addresses
Pretoria
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Street, Arcadia
Pretoria
Cape Town
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
Contact details for questions
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
Call centre – +27 86 111 2468
Helpful tips to improve your chances
- Check the exact field and reference number before you write anything on the form.
- Prepare a concise motivation letter that links your career goals to the DFFE’s priorities.
- Submit the full package at least two weeks before the deadline to avoid postal delays.
- Use the SETA SA career and qualification explorer to verify that your chosen programme is recognised by the SAQA.
- Consider applying for other bursaries as well – many SETAs offer similar funding for environmental and engineering studies.
Next steps
Start gathering your documents today. Visit the official DFFE bursary page, download the form, and begin writing your motivation letter. Remember, the deadline is 02 October 2026. Early preparation will give you the best chance of success.
Apply for the DFFE Full‑Time Bursary Programme 2027 – https://www.dffe.gov.za/bursaries?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the bursary open for 2027? Yes – it covers both Grade 12 learners and full‑time university or TVET students.
- How much money can I receive? Up to R80 000 per year, depending on the funding category.
- Can I apply if I am already working? No – the bursary is only for unemployed full‑time students.
- Are postgraduate studies funded? Yes – Honours, Master’s and PhD programmes are included where the field matches the category.
- Will I have to work for DFFE after finishing? A mandatory public‑service internship is part of the bursary contract.
- What if I miss the deadline? Late applications are not accepted. Submit early to avoid any postal issues.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the official DFFE Full‑Time Bursary 2027 advertisement. Always verify details on the department’s website before submitting your application. The Department does not charge any fee for the bursary, and you should not pay anyone promising guaranteed success.
