re you planning postgraduate studies in 2026? The Department of Science, Technology & Innovation (DSTI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) are now calling for applications for Master’s and Doctoral scholarships in South Africa. This funding supports research in Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems
Scholarship Overview
The DSTI‑NRF Programme enables outstanding candidates to pursue postgraduate research with either Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS) funding:
- FCS funding is reserved for South African citizens and permanent residents who are financially needy (household income ≤ R350,000 p.a.), living with a disability, or exceptional academic achievers.
- PCS funding is available to international students (including qualified South Africans not eligible for FCS) but capped at 5% of total awards.
Eligibility & Criteria
- Degrees Supported: Master’s, Doctoral, and extensions. Honours (General) funding also available.
- Academic Performance: Minimum average of 65% in your final qualifying year:
- Honours → 65% in undergraduate major
- Master’s → 65% in Honours or postgraduate diploma
- Doctoral → 65% at Master’s level
- Age Limit:
- Honours: ≤28 years
- Master’s: ≤30 years
- Doctoral: ≤32 years in the application year
- Citizenship: South African citizens, permanent residents; limited slots for international students (PCS funding).
- Fields of Study: Any area including Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities, Indigenous Knowledge Systems.
Application Timeline & Deadlines
You must apply via the NRF Connect online portal—manual or paper applications will not be accepted. Opportunities For Africans
| Scholarship Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Honours (General) | 1 July 2025 | 21 Nov 2025 |
| First-time Master’s scholarships | 14 May 2025 | 4 July 2025 |
| First-time Doctoral scholarships | 14 May 2025 | 4 July 2025 |
| Master’s & Doctoral Extension Support | 15 August 2025 | 15 August 2025 |
- Institutional claim deadlines may differ (e.g. institutions reporting Honours claims by 31 March 2025).
Funding Benefits
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance / stipend
- Study materials and possibly accommodation
- Extension support for final stages of your studies: 6–12 months additional support upon request University of Pretoria
Funding duration varies by level:
- Honours: up to 1 year
- Master’s: up to 2 years
- Doctoral: up to 3 years (or 4 years if upgrading from Master’s), plus up to 12 months extension support
How to Apply
- Register and apply online through NRF Connect: nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za
- Prepare the following supporting docs:
- Certified ID / passport (international applicants require passport)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of income (if applying for FCS)
- Research proposal or study plan
- Supervisor support letter
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
- Carefully review and follow the DSTI‑NRF Application & Funding Guide and Framework documents during submission.
- Submit before respective deadlines—late or incomplete applications will be rejected.
- If you’re a continuing student, do not apply again—submit a Progress Report instead.
DOWNLOAD THE DSTI‑NRF SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME FOR 2026 APPLICATION GUIDE HERE
Contact & Support
- For technical issues: NRF Support Desk
- Phone: +27 12 481 4202
- Email: [email protected]
- For funding-related queries:
- Email: [email protected]
- Include subject line with “Level of Study – Funding Opportunity – Application Reference Number”
- Most university research offices provide guidance—consult your department early.
Quick Summary
- DSTI‑NRF 2026 scholarships now open for Master’s and Doctoral studies
- Must apply via NRF Connect portal
- Minimum 65% final-year average
- Age limits: 28 (Honours), 30 (Master’s), 32 (Doctoral)
- Funding covers fees, living costs, materials, extensions
- Deadlines range from May to August 2025
Why It Matters
This scholarship world opens doors for future researchers, innovators, and thought leaders. It fuels South Africa’s skills pipeline across critical sectors like science, technology, development, social sciences, and indigenous knowledge systems.
By investing in postgraduate talent, the DSTI‑NRF scholarship helps create a knowledge-based, inclusive, and sustainable future. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your academic journey and impact through funding support starting in 2026.