Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
DFFE Bursary
Closes
2 October 2026
Value
Up to R80 000 per year
Level
Undergraduate & Postgraduate
For
Unemployed SA citizens
Sector
Environment & Agriculture
Work-back
Mandatory internship after graduation
About this bursary
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) awards financial assistance to students pursuing qualifications in environmental management, marine science, forestry, and related disciplines. Funding is capped at a maximum of R80 000 per academic year.
This bursary target unemployed South African citizens who are completing matric or currently studying full-time at accredited South African public tertiary institutions. The programme aims to build technical capacity in key environmental sectors including climate change, waste management, oceanography, and compliance.
Bursary recipients are required to join the department's internship programme upon completing their studies. Preference is given to applicants living with disabilities and those from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Obligation
Graduates must participate in the department's graduate internship programme after completing their studies.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be currently in matric or have already passed matric.
- You must plan to study or be enrolled full-time at a recognized public tertiary institution in South Africa.
- You must be studying a field of study approved by the department.
- You must be currently unemployed and not an employee of the DFFE.
- You must not have previously participated in a public service internship scheme.
You do not qualify if
- Part-time students are not eligible.
- Current employees of the DFFE cannot apply.
- Former public service interns are excluded from applying.
- Non-South African citizens do not qualify.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of South African ID document
- Certified copy of latest Grade 12 results (if currently in matric)
- Certified copy of matric certificate (if completed)
- Certified copies of completed tertiary qualifications (if applicable)
- Certified copy of recent academic transcript (if currently studying)
- Official proof of registration on institution letterhead (if enrolled)
- Certified copies of parents or guardians ID documents
- Proof of household income (payslips, pension slips, SASSA grant slips, or unemployment affidavits)
- Motivational letter explaining why you should receive the bursary
Ensure all submitted documents are clear certified copies.
How to apply
- 1Download the official 2027 DFFE bursary application form PDF.
- 2Fill out the form completely, including the specific reference number for your chosen field of study.
- 3Gather and certify all mandatory supporting documents listed on the form.
- 4Deliver the completed application package by post or hand delivery to the Pretoria or Cape Town office before the closing date.
Faxed or emailed applications are not accepted and will be rejected.