DSTI–CSIR Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme for South African Postgraduate Students – 2025

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), invites eligible postgraduate students to apply for the Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme (IBS) for the 2025 academic year. This initiative aims to build research capacity in South Africa’s critical, strategic, and priority sectors as identified by national science and innovation policies.

About the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

Established in 1945, the CSIR is South Africa’s premier research and development institution. It is committed to fostering innovation, scientific excellence, and industrial development to improve the quality of life and drive sustainable economic growth. Operating under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, the CSIR plays a vital role in advancing science and technology across various sectors of national importance.

Bursary Overview

• Sponsor: Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

• Location: South Africa

• Level of Study: Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, Doctoral

• Eligible Gender: Open to both men and women

• Application Deadline: August 4, 2025

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial and developmental support, including:

Funding Amounts

• Honours / 4th Year Engineering / Postgraduate Diploma: R130,000

• Master’s Degree: R140,000

• Doctoral Degree: R160,000

• Once-off Laptop Allowance: R10,000

Additional Support Includes:

• Up to R35,000 annually for experimental research costs

• National and international conference attendance funding (up to R35,000/year)

• CSIR Excellence Awards and recognition for top-performing students

• Work placement opportunities at CSIR or partner organizations

• Interview preparation workshops for final-year students

• Real-world research projects addressing socio-economic challenges (with CSIR co-supervision)

• Mentorship programs with experienced CSIR professionals

• Research skills training (e.g., academic writing, thesis support)

• Vacation work (up to six weeks per year)

• Access to wellness and psychosocial support

• Participation in the CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be South African citizens enrolled or accepted for full-time study at a public university in South Africa

• Be pursuing studies in one of the following qualifications:

  • Honours / 4th Year Engineering / Postgraduate Diploma

  • Master’s Degree

  • Doctoral Degree

Minimum Academic Requirements:

• Honours / 4th Year / Postgraduate Diploma: 65% average in final undergraduate year

• Master’s Degree: 65% average at Honours level

• Doctoral Degree: 65% average at Master’s level

• Degree must align with thematic research areas (listed below)

• Master’s and Doctoral applicants must obtain endorsement and motivation from their academic supervisor

• Preference will be given to:

  • Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds

  • Persons with disabilities

Priority Research Themes

Applications are limited to students whose academic focus aligns with the following areas:

• Biocatalysis

• Biopharming

• Bioprocessing

• Health Innovations

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• Indigenous Knowledge Systems

• Microsystems Technology

• Mining Technologies

• Modeling and Digital Sciences

• Titanium Processing and Manufacturing

• Photonics

• Water Research and Innovation

How to Apply

For application forms and detailed guidelines:

• Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za

• Phone: +27 (12) 841 3304

• More information: Visit the CSIR Bursary Programme webpage

Take the next step in your academic and professional journey with support from DSTI and CSIR—empowering future researchers and innovators to transform South Africa.

APPLY HERE