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 those currently in Grade 12 or studying full-time at a higher learning institution. The bursaries aim to support studies in fields related to the department’s work, with a maximum value of R80,000.

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

About the DFFE Bursary Programme 2027

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 is designed to develop skills and knowledge within critical environmental sectors in South Africa. The programme supports a wide range of study fields, from diplomas to postgraduate degrees.

The bursary covers studies in areas such as environmental management, forestry, biodiversity, oceans and coasts, fisheries, climate change, and waste management. It is a valuable opportunity for students passionate about contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management in the country.

About the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is a government department responsible for managing and protecting South Africa’s natural resources. It plays a key role in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and the regulation of forestry, fisheries, and environmental protection activities. The department works to ensure that South Africa’s natural heritage is preserved for future generations.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The DFFE bursary programme supports various fields of study, categorized by reference numbers. Applicants must ensure they select the correct category and reference number when applying.

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

What the Bursary Offers

The DFFE bursary programme provides financial support to successful applicants. The maximum bursary value is R80,000 per year. This funding is intended to cover study-related costs.

Successful bursary beneficiaries are also required to participate in an internship programme after completing their studies, as per the bursary contract agreement. This provides valuable post-study work experience.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary programme is for the 2027 academic year. The location for applications and potential internship placements is South Africa. Specific details regarding the duration of the bursary or the internship period are not provided.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered 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 South African institution of higher learning.
• Not be employed.
• Be studying or intend to study in a field aligned with the DFFE’s mandate.
• Consideration will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities who meet the requirements.
• Applicants who have previously participated in a Public Service Internship Programme are not eligible.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not listed, applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record and a genuine interest in environmental fields. The ability to commit to the post-study internship requirement is also essential.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for ambitious South African students who are passionate about environmental issues and wish to pursue a career in fields such as environmental management, conservation, forestry, or marine science. If you are a dedicated student looking for financial assistance to complete your studies and gain practical experience in the public sector, this bursary is for you.

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.
• Certified copies of your South African ID.
• Copies of your latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Grade 12).
• Proof of registration from your institution of higher learning (if already studying).
• Copies of qualifications and recent academic records.
• Proof of parent or guardian income.
• Proof of death certificates if parents are deceased.
• 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

Applicants must use the prescribed DFFE bursary application form. You can access the application form and further details by visiting the official DFFE website.

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

Ensure you clearly indicate the correct field of study and reference number on your application form. Faxed and emailed applications will not be accepted. Applications can be submitted by hand, courier, or post.

Hand Delivery/Courier:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House
473 Steve Biko Street
Corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road
Arcadia
Pretoria

OR

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

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be accepted.
• Applicants must meet all minimum requirements.
• Ensure your application is complete and all documents are correctly submitted.
• 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.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.