Department of Agriculture – Land Reform and Rural Development Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you are passionate about agriculture and rural development and are looking for financial support to pursue your academic goals, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary South Africa 2026 could be your gateway to success. This prestigious bursary is designed to uplift students from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds and support the development of future leaders in the agricultural sector.
What is the DALRRD?
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) was formed in 2019 through the merger of two former departments: the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), and the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR). The goal of this unified department is to promote equitable access to land, ensure food security, support sustainable agricultural practices, and foster integrated rural development in South Africa.
Vision and Mission of the DALRRD Bursary Programme
The DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026 is part of a strategic mission to create a skilled and inclusive agricultural sector. The department seeks to empower previously disadvantaged individuals especially those from poverty-stricken rural areas with access to higher education in critical agricultural disciplines. By doing so, it strengthens the human capital needed to achieve sustainable food systems and efficient land reform.
Fields Covered by the DALRRD Bursary
The bursary offers funding for undergraduate studies in high-demand agricultural fields. Students planning to enroll in one of the following qualifications for the 2026 academic year are eligible to apply:
| Study Field | Qualification Type |
|---|---|
| Agriculture related fields | Advanced Diploma |
| Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering | BSc Eng |
| Agronomy | BSc Agric |
| Animal Science | BSc Agric |
| Entomology | BSc Agric |
| Food Science | BSc Agric |
| Food Science and Technology | BAS |
| Food Technology | Diploma |
| Plant Pathology | BSc Agric |
| Soil Science | BSc Agric |
| Veterinary Science | BVSc |
| Viticulture and Oenology | BSc Agric |
What the DALRRD Bursary Covers
The DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026 is a fully funded bursary designed to ease the financial burden of higher education. It includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Student accommodation
- Meals
- Monthly living allowance
The number of bursaries granted each year depends on the department’s available budget. Preference is given to deserving candidates who meet all eligibility requirements and demonstrate financial need.
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Condition |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a South African citizen |
| Education status | Must be in Matric or already have Matriculated |
| Study mode | Must study full-time in 2026 |
| Field of study | Must pursue one of the listed agriculture-related qualifications |
| Institution | Must attend a recognized tertiary institution in South Africa |
| Financial background | Must be previously disadvantaged and from poverty-stricken or rural areas |
| Department affiliation | Must not be a DALRRD staff member |
| Disabilities | Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply |
Academic Requirements Based on Field of Study
The bursary requires applicants to meet specific minimum academic standards in Mathematics and Physical Science, depending on the chosen field of study:
| Field of Study | Mathematics & Physical Science Requirements |
|---|---|
| Food Science and Technology (BAS), Food Technology (Diploma) | Minimum Level 4 (50–59%) |
| Agronomy, Animal Science, Entomology, Food Science (BSc Agric), Plant Pathology, Soil Science, Viticulture and Oenology | Minimum Level 5 (60–69%) |
| Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng), Veterinary Science (BVSc) | Minimum Level 6 (70–79%) |
How to Apply for the DALRRD Bursary 2026
To apply for the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary South Africa 2026, follow these steps:
- Download the application form for 2026 (DALRRD Bursary Application Form – PDF).
- Complete the form thoroughly.
- Indicate “https://zaupdates.co.za/” when asked how you heard about the bursary.
- Prepare and attach the required supporting documents (see next section).
- Email the completed application and documents to:
[email protected]
Use the subject line: “DALRRD Bursary 2026”
Required Supporting Documents
Ensure your application includes certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Latest Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if completed)
- Full academic record (if already studying)
- University acceptance letter (if available)
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Death certificates of parents/guardians (if applicable)
- Proof of income:
- Payslips (if employed)
- Proof of unemployment (Department of Labour)
- SASSA confirmation letter (if applicable)
Note: If your final Matric results or university acceptance are not yet available, you may still apply and submit those documents within 3 days after results are released in January 2026.
DALRRD Bursary 2026 Closing Date
Deadline: 30 September 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. It’s essential to apply before the closing date to ensure your application is reviewed.
Selection Process and Communication
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted within 14 days after the release of Matric final results. If you don’t hear back within two weeks after results are released, your application was unfortunately not successful.
Contact Details for DALRRD Bursary Queries
If you have any questions regarding the DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026, contact the DALRRD officials:
| Contact Person | Telephone |
|---|---|
| Ms Silindelo Dlomo | 012 319 7848 |
| Ms Bongiwe Shabalala | 012 319 7136 |
| Mr Sifiso Nkuna | 012 319 7201 |
| [email protected] |
FAQs About DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026
Can I apply for the DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026 if I haven’t received my Matric results yet?
Yes, you can still apply. Submit your application before the deadline and email your final Matric results within 3 days of their release in January 2026.
Does the DALRRD Bursary cover postgraduate studies?
No. The bursary is available only for undergraduate qualifications in agriculture-related fields.
Can students with disabilities apply for this bursary?
Yes, students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The programme supports inclusivity in higher education.
Conclusion
If you are a young, passionate South African from a disadvantaged background with an interest in agriculture, land reform, or rural development, the DALRRD Bursary South Africa 2026 could be your golden opportunity. Prepare your documents early, apply before the deadline, and take a step closer to a career that truly makes a difference.
