The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) offers a transformative opportunity for South African students through its Agriculture Bursaries for the 2025 academic year.
African Bank Ad
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about these bursaries, including the eligibility criteria, application process, and fields of study covered under this initiative.
About the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
The Department of Agriculture Bursaries originate from the DALRRD, which was formed by merging two previous departments in 2019. This department is dedicated to equitable land access, enhancing food security, fostering sustainable agriculture, and promoting integrated rural development across South Africa.
Fields Covered by the Department of Agriculture Bursaries
The Department of Agriculture Bursaries are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students in a range of fields within the agriculture, land reform, and rural development sectors:
Undergraduate Studies:
Agricultural (Bioresource) Engineering (BSc Eng)
Agronomy (BSc Agric)
Entomology (BSc Agric)
Food Science (BSc Agric)
Food Science and Technology (BAS)
Food Technology (Diploma)
Geo-Informatics/ Geographic Information Science (BSc)
Geomatics/ Land Surveying/ GIS (National Diploma/ Bachelors Degree)
Land Surveying/ Geomatics (BSc)
Pasture Science (BSc Agric)
Plant Pathology (BSc Agric)
Soil Science (BSc Agric)
Town/ Urban and Regional Planning (National Diploma/ Bachelors Degree)
Town/ Urban and Regional Planning (BSc)
Veterinary Science (BVSc)
Viticulture and Oenology (BSc Agric)
Postgraduate Studies:
DALRRD priority research projects (Advance Diploma/ B Tech/ BSc Hons, MSc/ DTech/ PhD)
Benefits of the Agriculture Bursaries from DALRRD
The Department of Agriculture Bursaries offer substantial financial support designed to alleviate the economic barriers many students face when pursuing higher education in fields essential for national development. Here are the comprehensive benefits recipients can expect:
Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees ensures that students can focus on their studies without the stress of financial constraints affecting their academic performance.
Books and Educational Supplies: The bursaries provide funds for textbooks and other essential educational materials, which are often a significant expense. This support helps ensure that students have access to the necessary resources to succeed academically.
Accommodation: For students studying away from home, the bursaries cover the cost of accommodation. This allows students from all regions, including rural and underdeveloped areas, to access quality education opportunities that may be geographically distant.
Meals: Understanding that proper nutrition is crucial for effective learning, the bursaries include an allowance for meals. This ensures that students are well-nourished and can concentrate on their studies rather than worrying about their next meal.
Monthly Allowance: A monthly stipend is provided to cover additional living expenses such as transportation, personal care items, and minor academic costs, enabling a more comfortable and conducive academic environment.
Holistic Support: Beyond financial assistance, the bursary program sometimes offers mentoring and support services to help students navigate the challenges of higher education. This holistic approach aims to enhance academic success and personal development.
Career Advancement: Recipients often gain access to internships and career opportunities within the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development and its associated networks. This exposure is invaluable, providing practical experience and facilitating smoother transitions into the workforce.
Contributing to National Goals: By supporting students in agriculture and related fields, these bursaries contribute to broader national objectives like food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development. Bursary recipients play a crucial role in these sectors, directly impacting national growth and stability.
Eligibility Criteria
Prospective applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for the Department of Agriculture Bursaries:
South African citizenship
Matriculation status: either current or completed
Full-time enrollment at an accredited South African institution
Commitment to a career in the sectors targeted by the department
Specific academic requirements depending on the chosen field of study
Application Process for the Department of Agriculture Bursaries
To ensure a smooth and successful application process for the Department of Agriculture Bursaries, applicants must submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with their completed application form. It is crucial to include all required documents, as missing items can lead to the disqualification of your application.
For Undergraduate Students:
ID Document: Submit a certified copy of your South African ID document.
Matric Latest Results: If you are currently in Matric, provide a certified copy of your latest results.
Matric Certificate: If you have completed Matric, submit a certified copy of your Matric certificate.
Full Academic Record: For students already enrolled in tertiary studies, provide a certified copy of your full academic record.
University Acceptance Letter: If available, include a copy of your acceptance letter from the tertiary institution, printed on the institution’s letterhead.
Parents or Guardians’ ID Documents: Provide certified copies of ID documents for your parents or guardians.
Parents or Guardians’ Death Certificates: If applicable, submit certified copies of death certificates.
Parents or Guardians’ Proof of Income: Include the latest payslips if employed, proof of unemployment from the Department of Labour if unemployed, or a SASSA confirmation letter if applicable.
Application form: DALRRD-Bursary-Application-Form-2025-Undergraduate
Note: If you have not yet received your Matric final results or university acceptance letter, you may submit your application without these documents. However, you must provide them as soon as they are available.
For Postgraduate Students:
ID Document: A certified copy of your ID document.
Full Academic Record: Provide a certified copy of your full academic record from your most recent institution of study.
Qualifications/Certificates: Submit certified copies of all your relevant qualifications and certificates.
University Acceptance Letter: Include a copy of your acceptance letter from the tertiary institution, printed on the institution’s letterhead.
Parents or Guardians’ ID Documents: Provide certified copies of ID documents for your parents or guardians.
Parents or Guardians’ Death Certificates: If applicable, submit certified copies of death certificates.
Parents or Guardians’ Proof of Income: Include the latest payslips if employed, proof of unemployment from the Department of Labour if unemployed, or a SASSA confirmation letter if applicable.
- Application form: DALRRD-Bursary-Application-Form-2025-Postgraduate
Submission Instructions
- Complete your application form and attach all required documents. Applications must be submitted via email to externalbursaries@dalrrd.gov.za
- Ensure that the email subject line includes “DALRRD Bursary Application 2025” to properly direct your application to the appropriate department for processing.
- All applications for the Department of Agriculture Bursaries must be submitted by 30 September 2024. It is crucial to apply within this timeframe to ensure your application is considered.
Tip: 10 Bursary Interview Preparation Steps for Success
The Department of Agriculture Bursaries provide a vital opportunity for students dedicated to pursuing careers in agriculture, land reform, and rural development. These bursaries not only offer substantial financial support but also pave the way for recipients to contribute to significant national initiatives. By alleviating the financial burdens associated with higher education, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development ensures that students can focus on their academic and professional growth without the distraction of economic constraints.
For more information and to download the application form, visit the official DALRRD website. Remember, a successful application begins with your proactive approach—apply now to secure your future and contribute to the nation’s growth.
