Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary
Role Overview
The Department of Agriculture (DOA) is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2027 academic year.
Bursaries will be awarded for studies within the following Agricultural-related fields:
The bursary aims to fund previously disadvantaged and impoverished students, from poverty-stricken and rural communities.
The bursary will provide cover for the following expenses: tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals and a monthly allowance.
The Department of Agriculture (DoA) reserves the right to determine the total number of bursaries to be awarded, based on the available funding.
www.zabursaries.co.za is committed to keeping you up to date with the latest bursary opportunities, and this article covers all details about the DoA Bursary.
Successful applicants will be contacted within 14 days after Matric final results are released, and after the National Bursary Committee has completed the selection process.
If you do not receive any feedback within 2 weeks after Matric final results are released, please regard your application as unsuccessful.
Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
• You must be a South African citizen
• You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
• You must be studying or intend on studying full-time, towards one of the qualifications listed above in 2027
• You must be studying or intend on studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
• You must be previously disadvantaged or impoverished
• You must from a poverty-stricken area or rural community
• You must NOT be a staff member of the department
• You must have achieved a minimum result of level 4 (50 to 59%) for Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, if studying or intend on studying within one of these fields: Food Science and Technology (BAS) Food Technology (Diploma)
• Food Science and Technology (BAS)
• Food Technology (Diploma)
• You must have achieved a minimum result of level 5 (60 to 69%) for Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, if studying or intend on studying within one of these fields: Agricultural Agronomy (BSc) Agricultural Animal Health (BSc) Agricultural Entomology (BSc) Agricultural Food Science (BSc) Agricultural Plant Pathology (BSc) Agricultural Plant Science (BSc) Agricultural Soil Science (BSc) Agricultural Viticulture and Oenology (BSc) Veterinary Nursing (BVetNurs) Veterinary Technology (BHSci)
• Agricultural Agronomy (BSc)
• Agricultural Animal Health (BSc)
• Agricultural Entomology (BSc)
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from ZABursaries. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Download and complete the DALRRD Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf) Enter “www.zabursaries.co.za” in the field asking how you heard about the DALRRD Bursary. Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your completed application form (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified): ID document (certified copy) Matric latest results, if currently in Matric (certified copy) Matric certificate, if completed Matric (certified copy) Full academic record, if currently studying (certified copy) University acceptance letter, if available (on tertiary letterhead) Parents or guardians ID documents (certified copies) Parents or guardians death certificates, if applicable (certified copies) Parents or guardians proof of income (latest payslips if employed, proof of unemployment from Department of Labour if unemployed, SASSA confirmation letter if applicable) (certified copies) Note: if you have not yet received your Matric final results or University acceptance letter, you may apply without it and submit the outstanding documents within 3 days after the release of Grade 12 results in January 2026. Applications must be submitted via email to: Externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za (Insert the words “DALRRD Bursary 2026” in the email subject line).
About Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
This bursary is offered by Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Apply as soon as possible — positions may close without notice
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Yes, this opportunity requires a matric certificate.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
No closing date specified. Apply as soon as possible as positions may fill quickly.
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Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)'s careers portal.
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