The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) invites South African matriculants or current tertiary students from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for its 2026 bursary programme, offering comprehensive support for agriculture and rural development-related undergraduate studies.

About the Bursary Provider

The DALRRD, formed in 2019 by merging DAFF and DRDLR, aims to ensure land reform, food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development. Its bursary scheme nurtures future agricultural professionals from rural communities.

Fields Covered

Bursaries are available for full-time undergraduate studies in the following fields:

  • Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng)
  • Agronomy, Animal Science, Entomology, Food Science, Plant Pathology, Soil Science, Veterinary Science, Viticulture & Oenology (BSc Agric / BVSc)
  • BAS Food Science & Technology, Food Technology Diplomas
  • Land Surveying / Geomatics / Geo-Informatics / Town & Regional Planning (BSc / Diplomas)

Expenses Covered

The bursary covers:

  • Tuition and registration fees
  • Prescribed textbooks
  • Accommodation and meals
  • A monthly stipend

Selected applicants will receive comprehensive funding based on need and availability.

Eligibility Requirements

  • South African citizen from a rural or poverty-stricken area
  • Currently in Matric or have completed Matric; undergrad or postgrad study in 2026
  • Accepted to study one of the listed courses at a recognised SA tertiary institution
  • Previously disadvantaged or financially needy; staff members are excluded
  • Minimum Matric marks in Maths & Physical Science depending on field level (Level 4–6)
  • Encouragement for students with disabilities to apply

How to Apply

Follow these steps:

  1. Download and complete the DALRRD Bursary Application Form 2026 (Undergrad/Postgrad).
  2. Upload or include certified copies of: ID, Matric results/certificate, academic transcript, acceptance letter (if available), parent/guardian ID and income proof.
  3. If results or acceptance letters are pending, submit within 3 days of release in January 2026.

Email the complete application to Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za with subject “DALRRD Bursary 2026”.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about the bursary.

Closing Date

30 September 2025. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

Department of Agriculture, Land Reform & Rural Development
Email: Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za
Contacts:
Ms Silindelo Dlomo – Tel: 012 319 7848
Ms Bongiwe Shabalala – Tel: 012 319 7136
Mr Sifiso Nkuna – Tel: 012 319 7201

1. Who is eligible?
South African citizens from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds in Matric or higher, studying eligible agriculture or rural development courses full-time in 2026. Staff members are excluded.
2. Which fields are funded?
Fields include Agricultural Engineering, BSc Agric sciences, Veterinary Science, Food Technology, Land Surveying, Geo‑Informatics, Regional Planning, and more.
3. What does the bursary cover?
It covers tuition, registration, textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend.
4. Are there academic requirements?
Yes—Matric marks in Maths & Physical Science range from Level 4 to 6 depending on the study field. Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
5. How do I submit my application?
Email completed form and certified documents to Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za, subject “DALRRD Bursary 2026.” Pending documents can be submitted within 3 days of results.
6. What documents are required?
Certified copies of your ID, Matric results/certificate, academic transcripts, acceptance letter (if available), parent/guardian IDs and income proof.
7. When is the deadline?
30 September 2025. No applications after this date are considered.
8. How will selection be communicated?
Applicants will be contacted within 14 days of Matric results release by the National Bursary Committee. If not contacted within 2 weeks, consider your application unsuccessful.
9. Is repayment required?
No—this is a full-cost bursary; recipients are not required to repay the funds.
10. Who can I contact for help?
Email Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za or call Silindelo Dlomo (012 319 7848), Bongiwe Shabalala (012 319 7136), or Sifiso Nkuna (012 319 7201).