As South Africa continues to nurture world-class scientific talent, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has partnered with the CSIR to offer the Inter‑Programme Bursary Scheme (IBS) for 2026. This prestigious bursary supports postgraduate students across critical research fields, empowering them to advance the nation’s innovation landscape. Here’s everything you need to know to secure your chance.
Who Qualifies?
- Eligible students
Open to full-time students at any South African public university. Ideal for those starting or enrolled in:- Honours/fourth-year engineering programs or postgraduate diplomas,
- Master’s degrees,
- Doctoral degrees.
- Academic benchmarks
Applicants must hold at least a 65% average in their qualifying year (e.g., final UG year for honours, honours level for masters, masters for doctoral studies). - Academic focus areas
Studies must align with strategic research themes:- Biocatalysis, biopharming, bioprocessing, health, ICT, indigenous knowledge,
- Microsystems, mining, modelling & digital sciences, titanium manufacturing,
- Photonics, water research.
- Additional attention
Priority is given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and those living with disabilities.
Generous Funding Package
- Annual awards
- R130 000 for honours/fourth-year engineering/postgraduate diplomas
- R140 000 for master’s students
- R160 000 for doctoral candidates
- PLUS a one-time laptop allowance of R10 000 to support your studies.
- Research support
- Up to R35 000 per year for experiment fees and lab access
- Another R35 000 for conference attendance (national & international)
- Additional perks include excellence awards, mentorship opportunities, career-readiness workshops, psychosocial support, summer internships, and more.
Terms & Conditions
- Disbursement & duration
Funds are first applied to tuition via your university account, with balance paid monthly or quarterly.- Honours/postgrad diplomas are funded for one year; master’s for two; and doctorates up to three, contingent on academic progress and fund availability. Continuation depends on submission of annual progress reports.
- Conflict with other bursaries
You cannot receive IBS funds if already benefiting from another government-sponsored bursary (e.g. NRF). If awarded multiple, you must choose one. - No work-back obligation
Unlike some schemes, IBS recipients are not required to work for CSIR upon graduation.
How to Apply
Required documents include:
- South African ID (or passport & SA permanent residency for international students),
- Academic transcripts with proof of the required average.
- Applicants, especially at master’s and doctorate level, must secure supervisor endorsement.
APPLY FOR THE DSTI‑CSIR INTER‑PROGRAMME BURSARY SCHEME 2026 HERE
DOWNLOAD THE DSTI‑CSIR INTER‑PROGRAMME BURSARY SCHEME 2026 ADVERT HERE
Why It Matters
- National impact: By investing in research aligned with strategic sectors—like water, mining, ICT, health, and advanced manufacturing—the bursary supports South Africa’s drive toward a knowledge-based economy.
- Personal growth: Alongside financial backing, students gain access to labs, conferences, mentorship, and professional networks that extend well beyond university walls.
- Career-ready graduates: IBS enriches your academic journey with real-world project exposure and essential career-readiness training—positioning you to lead in high-tech and industrial environments.
Our Conclusion:
The DSTI‑CSIR Inter‑Programme Bursary isn’t just funding—it’s a springboard. It equips deserving South African students with the resources, networks, and opportunities to innovate, excel, and drive change.
If you’re pursuing cutting-edge research in any aligned field and meet the academic criteria, don’t miss the 4 August 2025 deadline. Start preparing your documents, secure a supervisor, and take a step toward shaping South Africa’s scientific future.
CLOSING DATE: 04 AUGUST 2025
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