DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2026 – Closing Date: 4 August 2025, Apply Now!

Hey future South African innovator! Are you dreaming of pursuing your Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate in a critical science and technology field? Well, buckle up, because the DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2026 is here to help you turn those dreams into reality!

This incredible bursary, a collaboration between the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), is designed to support talented young South African students like you. It’s all about boosting capacity and developing skills in key strategic areas that are vital for our nation’s progress. Think of it as a golden ticket to fund your postgraduate studies while contributing to groundbreaking research!

Who Can Apply?

Ready to see if you qualify? Here’s the lowdown on who can apply for the DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary:

• You must be a young South African student.
• You must be accepted or registered for full-time studies at any South African public university.
• You must intend to register or already be registered for one of the following:
  • Honours / Fourth-year Engineering / Postgraduate Diploma
  • Master’s
  • Doctorate
• Academic Performance:
  • A minimum average of 65% for your final undergraduate year for Honours, 4th year Engineering, and Postgraduate Diploma bursaries.
  • A minimum average of 65% at Honours level for a Master’s bursary.
  • A minimum average of 65% at Master’s level for a Doctoral bursary.
• Your degree must align with the thematic research areas and research themes/technology streams supported by the DSTI-CSIR IBS. These focus areas include:
  • Biocatalysis
  • Biopharming
  • Bioprocessing
  • Health
  • ICT
  • Indigenous Knowledge Systems
  • Microsystems technology
  • Mining
  • Modelling and Digital Sciences
  • Titanium (manufacturing elements)
  • Photonics
  • Water Research
• For Master’s and Doctoral studies, a supervisor endorsement and motivation will be required with your application.
• Preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and people living with disabilities.

What Does It Cover?

This isn’t just about tuition – the DSTI-CSIR Bursary offers comprehensive support to help you thrive! Here’s what you can expect:

• Bursary Amounts:
  • Honours / Fourth-year Engineering / Postgraduate Diploma: R130,000
  • Master’s: R140,000
  • Doctorate: R160,000
• You’ll also receive a once-off laptop allowance of R10,000 to get you set up!

But wait, there’s more! IBS students also get awesome additional support initiatives, including:

• Experimental costs funding of up to R35,000 per annum.
• Access to top-notch laboratories at CSIR and other institutions.
• Funding opportunities (up to R35,000 per annum) for national and international conference attendance.
• Recognition for top-performing students through CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates, and gifts.
• Possible work placement opportunities at the CSIR and affiliated organisations.
• Interview skills training to prepare you for the world of work.
• The chance to work on real-life projects addressing socio-economic challenges (with CSIR co-supervision!).
• An onboarding session to meet the CSIR team.
• Psychosocial support (academic and psychological).
• Student wellness programme.
• Opportunity to be paired with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme.
• Research skills training workshops to sharpen your academic writing.
• Funding for thesis/dissertation/research publications and printing costs.
• Vacation work opportunities (up to six weeks per annum).
• Opportunity to attend the CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium to showcase your research and network.

How to Apply?

Feeling excited? Here’s how you can take the next step towards securing this amazing bursary:

All applications must be submitted online through the official CSIR website. Make sure you read all the instructions carefully and prepare all your documents before you start.

Visit the Official Webpage of the DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme here!

Remember, the application deadline is Monday, 4 August 2025. Don’t leave it until the last minute!

So, if you’re a passionate South African student ready to make a real impact in science and technology, and this bursary sounds like your perfect match, don’t just sit there! The closing date is 4 August 2025, so get your application in. Head over to the official CSIR website, apply now, and start building your future. And while you’re at it, keep exploring more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room!

Michael Brooks

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