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