The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is offering bursaries for Postgraduate studies for the 2025 academic year.
This bursary programme aims to support capacity development in priority areas identified in key departmental strategies.
Fields of Study:
The bursary is available for the following Thematic Research Focus Areas:
- Biocatalysis
- Biopharming
- Bioprocessing
- Health
- ICT
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)
- Microsystems Technology
- Mining
- Modelling and Digital Sciences
- Titanium (Manufacturing Elements)
- Photonics
- Water Research
Bursary Value:
- Honours, 4th Year Engineering, Postgraduate Diploma: Up to R130,000 per annum
- Masters: Up to R140,000 per annum
- Doctoral: Up to R160,000 per annum
- Additional Benefit: A once-off laptop allowance of R10,000
Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizenship: South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Study Requirements: Must be studying or intend to study full-time towards a postgraduate qualification in one of the listed Thematic Research Focus Areas at a public university in South Africa.
- Other Funding: Must not be receiving any other bursary funding.
- Academic Performance:
- Honours Applicants: Maximum age of 28; minimum average of 65% for all major subjects in the final year of undergraduate study.
- Masters Applicants: Maximum age of 30; minimum average of 65% for all major subjects in Honours or final year of a 4-year degree.
- Doctoral Applicants: Maximum age of 32; minimum average of 65% at Masters level.
- Supervisor Endorsement: Required for Masters and Doctoral applicants.
- Preference: Given to students with disabilities and those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
Application Process:
- Required Documents:
- Certified copy of ID (for South African citizens) or passport and proof of permanent residency (for international students).
- Certified copy of university degree certificate.
- Full university transcript/record on institution letterhead.
- Proof of university application or registration on institution letterhead.
- Recommendation letter from Supervisor (for Masters and Doctoral applicants).
- Admission letter showing full-time registration (to be submitted by successful applicants if available).
Important Information:
- Application Feedback: Applicants will be notified of the outcome within 2 months of the closing date. If you do not receive feedback, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Status Check: You can check your application status by logging into the application portal.
- Closing Date: 31 August 2024 (12:00 PM)
Experienced career development professional with a background in student administration and guidance across several South African universities. Over the years, I have supported students in shaping their academic and professional journeys, providing career counselling, employability training, and placement support. I now focus on helping young graduates successfully transition from university or college into the workplace, bridging the gap between education and employment through practical guidance and career-readiness initiatives.
