DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursaries 2026

DSTI

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) invites applications for the Inter-programme Bursary Scheme (IBS) for the 2026 academic year.

This bursary programme supports postgraduate studies (Honours, Master’s, and PhD) in critical and strategic research areas aligned with South Africa’s innovation priorities.

Bursary Application Closing Date: 04 August 2025
Location: All South African Public Universities

Who Can Apply?

  • South African citizens or permanent residents accepted or registered full-time at any public university.
  • Students enrolling for:
    • Honours / Postgraduate Diploma / 4th Year Engineering
    • Master’s Degree
    • Doctoral Degree
  • Academic requirement: Minimum average of 65% in previous qualifying degree.
  • Students must be pursuing studies in designated thematic research areas (see below).

Bursary Values

Study Level Annual Bursary Laptop Allowance
Honours R130,000 R10,000
Master’s R140,000 R10,000
Doctorate R160,000 R10,000

Note: Funding cannot be combined with other government-derived bursaries (e.g. NRF).

Research Focus Areas Include

Biotechnology & Health

  • Biopharming, Bioprocessing, Biocatalysis
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Pathology
  • Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Nutrition, Microbiology

ICT & Engineering

  • Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science
  • Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics
  • Software Engineering, Mechatronics

Environment, Mining & Energy

  • Climate Change, Environmental Science, Hydrogeology
  • Clean Energy, Civil & Rock Engineering
  • People-centred Mine Modernisation

Water & Photonics

  • Water Resource Management, Water Quality Modelling
  • Optical Communication Systems, Quantum Optics, Laser Research

Titanium Manufacturing

  • Additive Manufacturing, Friction Welding, High-speed Machining
  • Investment Casting, Titanium Powder Consolidation

Important Conditions

  • Funds are paid to the university account, covering registration & tuition. The balance is disbursed monthly or quarterly.
  • Duration:
    • Honours/Postgrad Diploma: 1 year
    • Master’s: up to 2 years
    • Doctorate: up to 3 years
  • Continuation is subject to academic progress and fund availability.
  • No work-back obligation required post-completion.

Required Documents

  • Certified copy of ID or passport (for international students)
  • Proof of academic transcript (min. 65% average)
  • Master’s/Doctoral applicants must have a supervisor endorsement

How to Apply

Click the link below to access the official online application portal:

Apply for the DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2026

For enquiries, contact:
Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za