Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Student Funding
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) is inviting full-time students to apply for bursaries for the 2026 academic year.
This government funding opportunity supports students pursuing higher education while contributing to South Africa’s environmental and natural resource sectors.
Application Deadline: 03 October 2026
Target Applicants: Full-time students and Grade 12 learners
Employment Restriction: Not employed individuals only
Contract Requirement: Mandatory internship programme upon completion
Eligibility Requirements
Student Status
- Full-time students enrolled at institutions of higher learning
- Grade 12 (matric) learners preparing for tertiary education
- Unemployed status – applicants must not be currently employed
- Equal opportunity – all races, genders, and persons with disabilities encouraged
Previous Programme Restrictions
Important Exclusion: Students who have previously participated in the public service internship program are ineligible for consideration. Government regulations prohibit participation in the internship program more than once.
Post-Study Obligations
Upon completion of studies, participation in the internship program is mandatory as part of the bursary contract agreement. This creates a pathway into government service within environmental and natural resource sectors.
Required Documentation
Academic Records
- Certified copies of qualifications and recent academic records
- Latest Grade 12 results (if currently in high school)
- Proof of registration (if already enrolled at higher education institution)
Personal Documentation
- Certified copies of identity document (applicant and both parents or guardian)
- Motivation letter explaining why the bursary should be awarded
- Study field reference – clearly indicate reference number and field of study
Financial Documentation
- Proof of parents’ or guardian’s income
- Proof if parents are deceased
- Affidavit if parents are not working
Application Process and Guidelines
Submission Requirements
- Prescribed application form only – Must use official DFFE bursary application form (MS Word format)
- Complete applications only – Incomplete submissions will not be considered
- Physical submission required – No faxed or emailed applications accepted
- Clear field indication – Reference number and study field must be clearly marked
Application Timeline
- Deadline: 03 October 2026 (no late applications accepted)
- Response timeline: Correspondence limited to shortlisted and successful candidates
- Unsuccessful notification: If not contacted by end of January 2026, application was unsuccessful
- Contract requirement: Successful applicants must sign bursary contract
Programme Benefits and Obligations
Financial Support
The DFFE bursary programme provides comprehensive financial assistance for full-time tertiary education, supporting students in fields related to forestry, fisheries, environmental science, and related disciplines.
Career Pathway
Mandatory Internship Programme:
- Required participation upon study completion
- Gateway to government service career
- Experience in environmental and natural resource sectors
- Professional development within DFFE operations
Employment Opportunities
- Government service positions within DFFE
- Environmental sector careers in policy and implementation
- Natural resource management roles
- Research and development opportunities
Equal Opportunity Commitment
Representativity Goals
The DFFE promotes representativity across:
- Race – Supporting previously disadvantaged communities
- Gender – Encouraging female participation in environmental sciences
- Disability – Persons living with disabilities actively encouraged to apply
Affirmative Action
As an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, DFFE prioritizes creating diverse representation within the environmental and natural resource management sectors.
Study Fields and Focus Areas
While specific fields aren’t detailed in the current information, DFFE bursaries typically support studies in:
- Environmental Science and management
- Forestry and natural resource management
- Marine and Fisheries Science
- Conservation Biology and ecology
- Environmental Law and policy
- Sustainable Development studies
Application Strategy
Motivation Letter Excellence
Your motivation letter should demonstrate:
- Passion for environmental protection and natural resource management
- Career alignment with DFFE’s mission and objectives
- Academic commitment and achievement potential
- Understanding of internship obligations and career pathway
Documentation Preparation
- Certified copies – Ensure all documents are properly certified
- Complete financial information – Include all required income documentation
- Academic excellence – Highlight strong academic performance
- Reference accuracy – Double-check reference numbers and field codes
Important Reminders
Application Form Requirements
- Download official form – Use prescribed DFFE bursary application form only
- Complete all sections – Incomplete applications automatically rejected
- Clear handwriting – Ensure all information is legible and accurate
- Physical submission – Hand-delivery or postal submission only
Contract Obligations
Successful applicants must understand and accept:
- Bursary contract signing required
- Internship programme participation mandatory
- Government service commitment upon completion
- Academic performance maintenance throughout study period
Contact and Submission Information
Application Delivery: Physical submission required (specific address to be confirmed from official DFFE documentation)
Enquiries: Contact DFFE bursary administration for application process queries and clarification on requirements.
Apply Now for DFFE Bursary 2026
Ready to contribute to South Africa’s environmental and natural resource management future? This government bursary provides comprehensive support for full-time studies while creating pathways into meaningful public service careers.
Application Deadline: 03 October 2026
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, particularly the restriction on previous internship programme participation, and prepare complete documentation for your application.
Download the prescribed application form today and take the first step toward a career in environmental stewardship with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.
The DFFE is committed to developing environmental professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s sustainable development and natural resource management objectives.