The 2027 DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme (IBS) is now accepting applications from outstanding postgraduate students seeking to pursue full-time studies at South African public universities. Established by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and supported by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the bursary aims to strengthen South Africa’s research capacity by investing in highly skilled graduates across critical scientific, engineering and innovation priority areas.
Open to all nationalities, the prestigious funding opportunity supports Honours, Fourth-Year Engineering, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s and Doctoral studies for the 2027 academic year. The programme is designed to develop the next generation of researchers, innovators and professionals whose work will contribute to national and global scientific advancement.
About the DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme
The Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme forms part of South Africa’s long-term strategy to build world-class research and innovation capabilities. Through this initiative, DSTI provides financial support to academically talented students pursuing postgraduate qualifications in fields identified as strategically important to the country’s economic and technological development.
CSIR administers and supports the programme by promoting advanced skills development, research excellence and innovation across multiple disciplines. The bursary enables students to focus on their academic and research ambitions while contributing to knowledge generation and sustainable development.
Unlike institution-specific scholarships, the bursary is available to eligible students studying at any South African public university, making it one of the country’s most accessible postgraduate funding programmes.
Eligible Study Levels
The bursary supports students who intend to register, or are already registered, for the following full-time postgraduate qualifications in 2027:
- Honours Degree
- Fourth-Year Engineering Programme
- Postgraduate Diploma
- Master’s Degree
- Doctoral (PhD) Degree
Applicants must have secured admission or be registered at a recognised South African public university before receiving funding.
Who Can Apply?
The DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme welcomes applications from both South African and international students who meet the academic and registration requirements.
Eligible applicants include:
- Students accepted for full-time postgraduate study at a South African public university.
- Honours and postgraduate diploma candidates.
- Fourth-year engineering students.
- Master’s students undertaking research-based postgraduate studies.
- Doctoral candidates pursuing advanced research degrees.
The programme’s inclusive nationality policy makes it an attractive opportunity for talented students from across Africa and around the world who wish to study in South Africa.
Academic Eligibility Requirements
Academic excellence is a fundamental requirement for selection. Applicants must demonstrate strong performance at their previous level of study by achieving a minimum average of 65%.
The required academic thresholds are:
| Study Level | Minimum Average Required |
|---|---|
| Honours / Fourth-Year Engineering / Postgraduate Diploma | 65% in the final undergraduate year |
| Master’s | 65% at Honours level |
| Doctoral (PhD) | 65% at Master’s level |
Meeting the minimum average does not automatically guarantee selection, as the bursary remains highly competitive and prioritises applicants with exceptional academic potential and strong research capability.
Why This Bursary Is Important
South Africa continues to invest significantly in developing highly qualified researchers capable of addressing complex national and global challenges. The DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme supports this vision by creating opportunities for postgraduate students to advance research in strategic priority sectors while building expertise in science, engineering, technology and innovation.
Beyond financial assistance, recipients become part of a broader ecosystem that encourages research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation-driven development. The programme contributes to strengthening human capital and preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, government and research institutions.
For aspiring researchers, scientists and engineers, the bursary represents an opportunity to pursue advanced studies within one of Africa’s leading higher education and research environments.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2027 DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme are currently open and will remain available until 15 September 2026 at 23:59 (South African Standard Time).
Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documentation early, including academic transcripts, proof of admission or registration and any supporting documents required by their respective universities. Reviewing the official eligibility guidelines before applying is strongly recommended to ensure compliance with all programme requirements.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official funding channels provided by their South African public university and consult the DSTI–CSIR bursary guidelines for complete application procedures. Applicants should verify all eligibility criteria, documentation requirements and submission deadlines before completing their applications.
The 2027 DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme offers an outstanding opportunity for talented postgraduate students to receive funding while contributing to research and innovation that shapes the future of South Africa and beyond.
