DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme 2027 for young South African students.

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Application Deadline:  15 September 2026

Applications are now open for the 2027 DSTI-CSIR Inter-programme Bursary Scheme. The Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme (IBS), funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) is intended to support full time studies at Honours, 4th year Engineering/Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and PhD level at any South African public university.

Eligibility:

Students who are approved or registered for full-time studies at any South African public university, who intend to register or are registered for the following degrees: 

• Honours/fourth year engineering/Postgraduate Diploma
• Masters
• Doctorate

Focus

Areas:

CSIR-DSTI IBS applications are restricted to students whose degrees are aligned with the thematic research areas indicated below:

• Biocatalysis 
• Biopharming
• Bioprocessing
• Health 
• ICT 
• Indigenous Knowledge Systems  
• Microsystems technology   
• Mining  
• Modelling and digital sciences   
• Titanium (manufacturing elements)   
• Photonics   
• Water Research   

Benefits

• Honours/fourth year engineering/Postgraduate Diploma: R160 000 
• Masters: R170 000
• Doctorate: R180 000 
• Students will receive an additional once-off laptop allowance of R10 000 

Additional Benefits

IBS students will also receive additional support through the following initiatives: 

• Experimental costs funding of up to R35 000 per annum – Access to laboratories at CSIR and other institutions
• National and international conference attendance funding opportunity of up to R35 000 per annum 
• Recognition of Top Performing students – CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and gifts handed out  
• Possible work placement opportunities at the CSIR and other affiliated organisations
• Interview skills training offered to final year students in preparation for the world of work 
• Opportunity to work on real-life projects that address socioeconomic challenges through your research (CSIR co-supervision)
• Onboarding session and an opportunity to meet the CSIR team 
• Psychosocial support (e.g academic and psychological support)
• Student wellness programme
• Opportunity to be paired with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme
• Research skills training workshops to sharpen your academic writing skills 
• Thesis/dissertation/Research publications and printing costs funding 
• Vacation work opportunities of up to six weeks per annum 
• Opportunity to attend CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium – Showcase research project and networking  

For More Information:

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