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, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) was established when a merger occurred between the 2 prior government departments, namely: the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and the Department Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR), in 2019.
The DALRRD’s vision includes ensuring citizens have fair access to land, food security, sustainable agriculture and integrated rural development.
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2026 academic year.
Bursaries will be awarded for Undergraduate studies, in fields within the agriculture sector – specifically the following fields:
The bursary aims to fund previously disadvantaged and impoverished students, from poverty-stricken and rural communities.
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 DALRRD Bursary.
The bursary will provide cover for the following expenses: tuition fees, books, accommodation, meals and a monthly allowance. The number of bursaries awarded will be dependent on the departments budget availability.
Key Responsibilities
You must represent the bursary programme positively in your professional conduct and fulfill any work-back obligations specified in your bursary contract after graduating. As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as 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 undergraduate qualifications listed above, in 2026
• 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: Agronomy (BSc Agric) Animal Science (BSc Agric) Entomology (BSc Agric) Food Science (BSc Agric) Plant Pathology (BSc Agric) Soil Science (BSc Agric) Viticulture and Oenology (BSc Agric) You must have achieved a minimum result of level 6 (70 to 79%) for Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, if studying or intend on studying within one of these fields: Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng) Veterinary Science (BVSc)
• Agronomy (BSc Agric)
• Animal Science (BSc Agric)
• Entomology (BSc Agric)
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. Many bursary programmes also include vacation work placements and guaranteed employment after graduation, giving you both education and career security.
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
- 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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