The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) is offering a bursary that can cover your full study costs for the 2027 academic year – you have until 30 September 2026 to apply.
What the bursary is
DLRRD will fund South African students who want to study land administration, surveying, geographic information systems (GIS) or planning.
The funding is for full‑time study at a recognised South African university. It is aimed at learners from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and from rural communities.
Who can apply
- South African citizen
- From a previously disadvantaged background or a rural area
- Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Planning to study full‑time in an approved field (see list below)
- Enrolled or accepted at a recognised South African university
- Meet the academic criteria for the chosen qualification
- Not an employee of DLRRD
Fields of study that are funded
- 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
- Related degree or diploma programmes in Town, Urban and Regional Planning
- Approved postgraduate studies in Geomatics and Planning
Make sure the qualification you intend to take is on this list.
What the bursary covers
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books and study materials
- Meals
- Living allowance
Academic requirements
BSc programmes – at least Level 5 (60‑69%) in Mathematics and Level 5 (60‑69%) in Physical Science or Geography.
Bachelor’s degree or Diploma programmes – at least Level 4 (50‑59%) in Mathematics and Level 4 (50‑59%) in Physical Science.
Check the specific requirement for the course you want.
Documents you must submit
- Certified copy of your ID (not older than three months)
- Certified copies of your parent(s) or guardian(s) ID
- Certified Grade 11 results and latest Matric results (if you are still in Matric)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate (if you have finished)
- Recent academic transcript (if you are already studying)
- Proof of university registration or acceptance letter
- Proof of residential address
You can apply before you have all the documents; just send the missing ones later.
How to apply – step by step
Step 1 – Choose one method only
You may apply online or by email. Do not use both.
Step 2 – Online application (recommended)
- Click Apply for the DLRRD Bursary 2027.
- Fill in your personal details and upload the required documents.
- Submit the form before the deadline.
Step 3 – Email application (if you prefer)
- Download the official form: DLRRD Bursary Application Form 2027.
- Complete the form and attach all certified documents.
- Email everything to Externalbursaries@dlrrd.gov.za with the subject line DLRRD Bursary Application 2027.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your chosen programme is on the approved list.
- Make sure you meet the Mathematics and Physical Science/Geography marks before you apply.
- Submit clear, legible certified copies of all documents.
- Write a brief, honest personal statement explaining why you chose the field.
- Apply early – the system can get busy close to the deadline.
Next steps
Gather your documents, confirm your eligibility and submit your application before 30 September 2026. This bursary could remove the financial barrier to a career in land reform, surveying or planning. Good luck!
