The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) has opened an exciting opportunity for South African students who are passionate about shaping the country’s future through land development, planning, mapping, surveying and geographic information systems. If you are planning to study in one of these specialised fields during the 2027 academic year, this comprehensive bursary could help remove the financial barriers that often prevent talented students from reaching their goals.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
Unlike many bursaries that only cover tuition fees, the DLRRD Bursary Programme offers comprehensive financial support, helping students pay for tuition, accommodation, prescribed books, meals and living expenses. This allows beneficiaries to focus on succeeding academically instead of worrying about finances.
The bursary particularly aims to support previously disadvantaged individuals and applicants from rural communities, while also encouraging applications from persons with disabilities.
Closing Date: 30 September 2027
Quick Overview
Opportunity: Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) Bursary Programme 2027
Organisation: Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
Closing Date: 30 September 2027
Study Level:
- Diploma
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Advanced Diploma
- Honours
- Master’s
- Doctoral (PhD)
Funding Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals
- Living allowance
Target Applicants:
- South African citizens
- Previously disadvantaged applicants
- Rural community applicants
- Persons with disabilities
- Students studying DLRRD priority fields
What Does the Bursary Cover?
Successful applicants may receive comprehensive financial assistance covering:
- Full tuition fees
- University registration costs
- Student accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals
- Living allowance
This comprehensive support allows students to concentrate on their studies without carrying significant financial pressure.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary is available for students studying the following priority programmes:
Bachelor’s Degrees
- BSc Land Surveying
- BSc Geomatics
- BSc Town and Regional Planning
- BSc Urban and Regional Planning
- BSc Geo-informatics
- BSc Geographic Information Science
- Bachelor in Geomatics
- Bachelor in Surveying
Diplomas
- Diploma in Geomatics
- Diploma in Surveying
- Diploma in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Diploma in Town and Regional Planning
Postgraduate Studies
Funding is also available for:
- Advanced Diploma
- Honours
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Postgraduate research must align with DLRRD priority research projects.
Minimum Academic Requirements
Applicants should meet the admission requirements for their chosen qualification.
According to the bursary advert:
For certain Bachelor of Science programmes applicants should have achieved:
- Mathematics Level 5 (60–69%)
- Physical Science or Geography Level 5 (60–69%)
For Bachelor and Diploma qualifications applicants generally require:
- Mathematics Level 4 (50–59%)
- Physical Science Level 4 (50–59%)
Applicants must also satisfy the admission requirements of the institution where they intend studying.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is suitable for:
- Grade 12 learners
- Current university students
- TVET graduates progressing to university
- Students entering postgraduate studies
- Rural community members
- Previously disadvantaged South Africans
- Persons living with disabilities
General Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should:
- Be South African citizens
- Apply only for approved fields of study
- Meet the minimum academic requirements
- Apply before the closing date
- Complete the official application process
Students waiting for final university acceptance may still submit their bursary application while awaiting their admission documentation.
How to Apply
Applicants should ensure they submit:
- Completed application form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Grade 12 results (where applicable)
- University acceptance letter (if available)
- Other supporting documents requested by the department
Applications submitted after the closing date may not be considered.
Important Notes
Applicants should remember:
- Only approved study programmes will be considered.
- Communication will generally be limited to successful applicants.
- Students awaiting admission results may still apply.
- The number of bursaries awarded depends on the department’s available budget.
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Why Choose a Career in Geomatics and Planning?
South Africa’s growing infrastructure and development needs continue to create demand for professionals who understand land management and spatial planning.
These careers combine technology with practical problem-solving and often involve:
- Satellite mapping
- Drone technology
- Geographic Information Systems
- Infrastructure planning
- Environmental sustainability
- Urban development
- Smart city planning
For students who enjoy geography, mathematics, technology and development, these careers offer excellent long-term prospects.
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Edupstairs Advice
Don’t wait until the final week before the closing date. Start preparing your documents early, request certified copies of your identification and academic records, and ensure your chosen qualification aligns with the bursary requirements. If you are still waiting for your university admission outcome, submit your bursary application on time while following up on your admission status. Applying early gives you time to correct any missing documents before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply?
South African citizens who meet the academic requirements and are studying one of the approved fields.
- Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Yes. The bursary includes accommodation together with several other study-related expenses.
- Are postgraduate students eligible?
Yes. Advanced Diploma, Honours, Master’s and PhD students may apply for approved research fields.
- Can I apply while waiting for university acceptance?
Yes. The department allows applicants to submit while waiting for their acceptance documentation.
- Are persons with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes. The department specifically encourages applications from persons with disabilities.
- Does the bursary include a living allowance?
Yes. Successful applicants may receive a living allowance in addition to tuition, accommodation, books and meals.
- When is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 September 2027.
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- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
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Disclaimer
This article is intended as an informational guide. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, applicants should always verify application requirements, supporting documents and submission procedures through the official Department of Land Reform and Rural Development before applying.
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