Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Bursaries 2027: Study Geomatics and Planning

The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students. This opportunity is for those pursuing studies in fields related to land reform, rural development, planning, surveying, and geomatics. Applications are open to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and rural communities.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Matric (Grade 12) or equivalent, with specific subject requirements for different study levels.
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the DLRRD Bursary Programme

The DLRRD Bursary Programme aims to support students who wish to contribute to land reform and rural development in South Africa. It focuses on developing skills in critical sectors like Geomatics and Town, Urban, and Regional Planning. The bursary is intended to help overcome financial barriers for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

This programme supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies at recognised South African universities. It covers a range of fields essential for the department’s mandate, promoting academic excellence and professional development in these areas.

About the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development

The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development is a government department in South Africa. Its main role is to address land issues, including land redistribution, restitution, and tenure reform. The department also focuses on promoting sustainable rural development and improving the lives of people in rural areas.

Fields of Study Covered

Bursaries are available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in specific fields. These are crucial for the department’s work in land management and development.

Undergraduate Studies

The bursary will fund undergraduate qualifications in:

• Geo-informatics / Geographic Information Science (BSc)
• Geomatics / Surveying / GIS (Diploma)
• Land Surveying / Geomatics (BSc)
• Town / Urban and Regional Planning (Bachelor’s Degree, BSc, or Diploma)

Postgraduate Studies

Postgraduate funding is available for:

• Geomatics
• Planning
• Advanced Diploma
• Postgraduate Diploma
• Honours
• Masters
• PhD

What the Bursary Offers

Successful applicants can expect financial support for various study-related expenses. This aims to ease the financial burden on students and their families.

The bursary typically covers:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation costs
• Textbooks and study materials
• Meals
• A living allowance

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is for the 2027 academic year. Studies will take place at recognised and accredited universities within South Africa. The specific duration of the bursary will depend on the length of the chosen qualification.

Minimum Requirements

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

• Be a South African citizen.
• 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 towards one of the listed qualifications.
• Be accepted or registered at a recognised and accredited South African university.
• Not be a staff member of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development.

Academic Requirements

Specific academic performance is required for different study levels:

• BSc studies: A minimum of Level 5 (60-69%) in Mathematics and Physical Science or Geography in Matric.
• Bachelor’s Degree studies: A minimum of Level 4 (50-59%) in Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric.
• Diploma studies: A minimum of Level 4 (50-59%) in Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed, applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and a desire to contribute to land reform and rural development. Good communication and academic skills are generally expected for university-level studies.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for ambitious South African students who are passionate about land reform, rural development, or urban planning. If you are from a previously disadvantaged background or a rural area and aim to pursue a career in Geomatics or Planning, this is a great opportunity to get financial support.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following documents:

• Certified copy of your South African ID document (not older than 3 months).
• Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
• Certified copy of your Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results (if currently in Matric).
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate (if Matric has been completed).
• Certified recent academic transcripts (if currently studying).
• Proof of university registration or acceptance letter.
• Proof of residential address.

Applicants awaiting university acceptance letters or final results may still apply.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted in one of two ways:

Online Application:
Visit the DLRRD Bursary Application portal: DLRRD Bursary Application 2027

Email Application:
Download and complete the application form: DLRRD Bursary Application 2027 (.pdf)
Submit the completed form via email to: [email protected]

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

Bursary Enquiries

For any questions regarding the DLRRD Bursary Programme, you can contact:

• Ms Leah Ngoetjana: Mobile: 060 972 8820 | Tel: 012 312 8352
• Mr Emmanuel Molefe: Mobile: 082 827 6245 | Tel: 012 312 8337

Closing Date

The deadline for submitting your application for the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Bursary South Africa 2027 is 30 September 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Applicants who do not hear back within 14 days after Matric results are released should consider their application unsuccessful.
• Ensure all required documents are certified and submitted correctly.
• Apply before the closing date to avoid disappointment.

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