DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Student Scholarships 2026

Omran Aburayya
May 31
3 min read

If you're a prospective Master's or Doctoral student aiming to advance your studies in South Africa, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) invite you to apply for the DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Student Scholarships for the 2026 academic year. This prestigious funding opportunity supports high-achieving students across various disciplines, including Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Applications are now open via the NRF Connect System.

🎓 Scholarship Summary

Location: South Africa
Host Institution: Public universities and recognized research institutions in South Africa
Study Level: Master’s and Doctoral
Target Group: South African citizens, permanent residents, and a select percentage of international students
Fields of Study: Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, including Indigenous Knowledge Systems
Award Value and Coverage:
- Full Cost of Study (FCS): Covers tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and study materials
- Partial Cost of Study (PCS): Covers a portion of the above expenses
Award Duration:
- Master’s: 2 years
- Doctoral: 3 years
- Master’s upgrade to Doctoral: 4 years
- Extension Support: 6 or 12 months
Application Deadlines:
- First-time Master’s: 14 May 2025 – 04 July 2025
- First-time Doctoral: 14 May 2025 – 04 July 2025
- Master’s and Doctoral Extension Support: 15 August 2025
Start Date: Academic Year 2026
Eligibility: South African citizens, permanent residents, and international students meeting specific criteria

📚 Scholarship Overview

The DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Scholarships aim to develop a robust pipeline of researchers and academics in South Africa. The program supports postgraduate students in pursuing research-intensive degrees, fostering innovation and contributing to the country's knowledge economy. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and strategic research priorities.

🎁 Scholarship Benefits

Full Cost of Study (FCS): Available to South African citizens and permanent residents who are financially needy (household income ≤ R350,000 per annum), living with a disability, or exceptional academic achievers.
Partial Cost of Study (PCS): Available to a limited number of international students and South African citizens/permanent residents who do not qualify for FCS but meet other eligibility criteria.
Additional Support: Extension support for Master's and Doctoral students nearing completion of their studies.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Academic Performance:
- Master’s applicants: Minimum average of 65% in Honours or equivalent qualification.
- Doctoral applicants: Minimum average of 65% in Master’s degree.
Citizenship:
- South African citizens and permanent residents are eligible for both FCS and PCS funding.
- International students are eligible for PCS funding (limited to 5% of total awards).
Other Requirements:
- Applicants must be registered or intend to register at a South African public university.
- Applicants must not be employed on a full-time basis.

📝 Application Procedure

Online Application:
- Register and complete your application on the NRF Connect System: https://nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za/.
- Ensure all sections are completed and required documents are uploaded.
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID or passport (for international applicants).
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Proof of income (for FCS applicants).
- Medical certificate (for applicants with disabilities).
- Research proposal or study plan.
- Supervisor’s support letter.
Submission:
- Submit the completed application by the specified deadlines.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

📞 Contact Information

Technical Enquiries:
- NRF Support Desk
- Phone: +27 12 481 4202
- Email: supportdesk@nrf.ac.za
Funding Enquiries:
- Email: postgraduatequeries@risa.nrf.ac.za
- Subject Line: [Level of Study] – [Funding Opportunity] – [Application Reference Number]