The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and the CSIR have opened the 2027 Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme. The programme supports full-time postgraduate study in specified research themes at South African public universities.
At a glance
- Funded by: Department of Science, Technology and Innovation
- Administered by: CSIR
- Study level: Honours, fourth-year Engineering, Postgraduate Diploma, master’s and doctorate
- Closing date: 15 September 2026
Fields of study
Applications are restricted to qualifications aligned with biocatalysis, biopharming, bioprocessing, health, ICT, indigenous knowledge systems, microsystems technology, mining, modelling and digital sciences, titanium-related manufacturing, photonics and water research.
Eligibility
- Be approved or registered for full-time study at a South African public university.
- Plan to study at Honours, fourth-year Engineering, Postgraduate Diploma, master’s or doctoral level.
- Ensure that the degree or research project aligns with one of the stated thematic areas.
- Meet the detailed academic and application requirements in the programme guidelines.
Required documents
Applicants should prepare the academic, identity, registration or admission, research and supporting documents specified in the current CSIR-DSTI IBS guidelines and online application form. Requirements can differ by study level.
What it covers
- Honours, fourth-year Engineering or Postgraduate Diploma: R160 000 per year
- Master’s: R170 000 per year
- Doctorate: R180 000 per year
- Laptop allowance: an additional once-off R10 000
Further opportunities may include funding for experimental costs and conference attendance, research-skills training, mentorship, psychosocial support, vacation work and other development support, subject to the programme rules.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying with a research topic that does not align with a listed theme.
- Selecting the wrong study-level application route.
- Failing to supply current university approval, registration or research information.
- Assuming every additional benefit is automatically awarded.
Closing date
15 September 2026.
How to apply
- Read the current IBS guidelines and confirm that your research area qualifies.
- Prepare the supporting documents required for your study level.
- Open the CSIR bursary portal and complete the relevant DSTI-CSIR IBS application.
- Submit the complete application before 15 September 2026.