Program Description: 

Title: DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa

Application deadline: Varies

DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa Overview

The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) invite applications for Master’s and Doctoral scholarships for the 2026 academic year. The program aims to support postgraduate students pursuing studies in Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Students will receive funding under either the Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS) categories.

This funding opportunity is open to South African citizens, Permanent Residents, and a small percentage (5%) of international students.

DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa Eligibility

• Minimum academic requirement: 65% for the previous degree

• FCS (Full Cost of Study) is available for:

  • South African citizens or permanent residents

  • Financially needy students (household income ≤ R350,000/year)

  • Students living with a disability

  • Exceptional academic achievers

• PCS (Partial Cost of Study) is available for:

  • 5% of international students

  • South African citizens or permanent residents not eligible for FCS

• For continuing students (second or third year), only a Progress Report is needed, not a new application

DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa Benefits

• Tuition and registration fees

• Living allowance

• Support for research expenses

• Funding categories:

  • FCS – Full funding

  • PCS – Partial funding

DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa: Application Requirements

• Submit applications online only via NRF Connect System

• No manual or email applications accepted

• Refer to the Application and Funding Guide and Framework on the NRF website

• Specific contact instructions based on level and funding type

DSTI-NRF Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships 2026 | South Africa: Selection Criteria

• Academic merit

• Financial need (for FCS)

• Disability status

• Research potential

• Alignment with NRF funding categories (General, SARChI, NRF-MINDS, etc.)

Restrictions

• Honours scholarships open in July 2025

• Applications must be submitted via the NRF Connect portal

• Each application must meet the specific deadlines and eligibility conditions

Application Process & Deadlines

📅 Students’ Applications Opening and Closing Dates

🏛 Institutional Submission to NRF Closing Dates