The call for applications is now open for the DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2027 to enable eligible South African students who are enrolled in a full time studies at Honours, 4th year Engineering/Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and PhD level at any South African public university to get the funding they need.
Funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2027 is intended to support South African students studying full time studies in any of the eligible focus areas at Honours, 4th year Engineering/Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and PhD level at any South African public university for the 2027 academic year.
The DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2027 offers eligible students a chance at a Masters Scholarship, PhD Scholarship to help fund their studies.
DSTI-CSIR IBS applications are restricted to students whose degrees align with the thematic research areas and research themes/technology streams indicated below. Supervisor endorsement and motivation will be required for each bursary application for master’s and doctoral studies. Be aware that preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and people living with disabilities.
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Eligibility:
- All students who have been accepted or registered for full-time studies at any South
African public university. - All students who intend to register or are registered for the following:
- Honours/fourth-year engineering/postgraduate diploma;
- Master’s; and
- Doctorate.
Academic performance:
- A minimum average of 65% for the final undergraduate year of study for honours,
fourth year engineering and postgraduate diploma bursaries; - A minimum average of 65% at the honours level for the master’s bursary; and
- A minimum average of 65% at the master’s level for doctoral bursary.
Eligible Focus Areas:
DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2027 applications are restricted to students whose degrees are aligned with the thematic research areas indicated below:
- Biocatalysis
- Biopharming
- Bioprocessing
- Health
- ICT
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Microsystems technology
- Mining
- Modelling and digital sciences
- Titanium (manufacturing elements)
- Photonics
- Water Research
Bursary Worth per Annum
- Honours/fourth year engineering/Postgraduate Diploma: R160 000
- Masters: R170 000
- Doctorate: R180 000
- Students will receive an additional once-off laptop allowance of R10 000
Additional Benefits
Successful students will also receive additional support through the following initiatives:
- Experimental costs funding of up to R35 000 per annum – Access to laboratories at CSIR and other institutions
- National and international conference attendance funding opportunity of up to R35 000 per annum
- Recognition of Top Performing students – CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and gifts handed out
- Possible work placement opportunities at the CSIR and other affiliated organisations
- Interview skills training offered to final year students in preparation for the world of work
- Opportunity to work on real-life projects that address socioeconomic challenges through your research (CSIR co-supervision)
- Onboarding session and an opportunity to meet the CSIR team
- Psychosocial support (e.g academic and psychological support)
- Student wellness programme
- Opportunity to be paired with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme
- Research skills training workshops to sharpen your academic writing skills
- Thesis/dissertation/Research publications and printing costs funding
- Vacation work opportunities of up to six weeks per annum
- Opportunity to attend CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium – Showcase research project and networking
Method of Application
Applicants should use the APPLY NOW button to visit the CSIR Bursary Connect Portal. Applicants will be able to check their application status once an application has been submitted using the login details provided during the initial application process and communication will be sent to all applicants within two months of the deadline to notify them of their application status.
Application Deadline: September 15, 2026.
For More Information: Visit the Scholarship Website.
