Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) Bursaries 2027: Apply Now

The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds and rural communities. This opportunity focuses on fields related to land administration, surveying, and planning.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (covers tuition, accommodation, books, meals, living allowance)
Minimum Qualification: Matric or relevant tertiary qualification
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027

The DLRRD Bursary Programme aims to support students pursuing qualifications critical for land reform and rural development in South Africa. It targets individuals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and rural areas, providing them with financial assistance to further their education. The programme supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in specific fields.

This bursary is designed to build capacity within the department and contribute to the development of skilled professionals in land administration, surveying, and planning. It is a full-time study opportunity at recognised South African universities.

About the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD)

The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development is a government department in South Africa responsible for land reform, land redistribution, land restitution, and rural development. It plays a key role in addressing historical land inequalities and promoting sustainable land use and development across the country. The department works to ensure equitable access to land and to foster inclusive economic growth in rural areas.

Fields of Study Supported

The DLRRD Bursary Programme funds studies in a range of specialised fields. These include:

• BSc Geo-informatics
• BSc Geographic Information Science
• Diploma in Geomatics
• Diploma in Surveying
• Diploma in Geographic Information Systems
• BSc Land Surveying
• BSc Geomatics
• Town Planning
• Urban Planning
• Regional Planning
• Relevant degree programmes in Town, Urban and Regional Planning
• Relevant Diploma programmes in Town, Urban and Regional Planning
• Approved postgraduate studies in Geomatics and Planning

Applicants must ensure their chosen qualification aligns with these approved fields.

What the DLRRD Bursary Covers

Successful applicants will receive financial support for several aspects of their studies. The bursary aims to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families.

The bursary provides funding for:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation costs
• Books and study materials
• Meals
• A living allowance

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the DLRRD Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be South African citizens.
• Come from a previously disadvantaged background or a rural community.
• Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
• Be studying or intend to study full-time in one of the approved fields at a recognised South African university.
• Meet the specific academic requirements for their chosen qualification.
• Not be an employee of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development.

Academic Requirements

Specific academic performance is required for different application types:

• For BSc applications: At least Level 5 (60-69%) in Mathematics and Level 5 (60-69%) in Physical Science or Geography.
• For Bachelor’s Degree and Diploma applications: At least Level 4 (50-59%) in Mathematics and Level 4 (50-59%) in Physical Science.

Applicants must ensure they meet these subject-specific requirements.

Required Application Documents

Applicants need to prepare and submit several documents with their application. Ensure all copies are certified and not older than three months where specified.

The required documents include:

• Certified copy of your South African ID.
• Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
• Certified Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results (if currently in Matric).
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate (if Matric has already been completed).
• Certified recent academic transcripts (if currently studying).
• Proof of university registration or acceptance.
• Proof of address.

If you do not yet have your university acceptance letter or final academic results, you can still apply and submit these documents later.

How to Apply for the DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027

Applicants must choose only one method to submit their application. Submitting through both methods may lead to disqualification.

Online Application

To apply online, please use the following link:

Click here to apply for Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Bursary Programme 2027

Email Application

If you prefer to apply via email, you must first download and complete the official bursary application form.

Click here to download the DLRRD Bursary Application Form 2027

After completing the form, email it along with all your supporting documents to:

[email protected]

Ensure your email subject line reads: DLRRD Bursary Application 2027.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the DLRRD Bursary Programme 2027 is 30 September 2026.

Late applications will not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the closing date.

Important Application Notes

• This bursary is specifically for the 2027 academic year.
• It is intended for students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and rural communities.
• Funding is available for studies in Geomatics, GIS, Surveying, Land Surveying, and Town and Regional Planning.
• The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, books, meals, and a living allowance.
• Applicants must be registered for full-time studies.
• Meeting the specific Mathematics and Physical Science or Geography requirements is essential.
• Current employees of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development are not eligible.
• Choose either the online or email application method, but not both.
• Applications close on 30 September 2026.

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