DSI‑NRF Master's and Doctoral Scholarships for 2025
The DSI-NRF postgraduate scholarships support research-focused Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral students at South African public universities across all disciplines to advance national research capacity and transformation.
Funder: National Research Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2026: First-time Master’s & Doctoral application closing | November 2026: Honours (General) application closing | October 2026: Master’s & Doctoral Extension Support closing | September 2026: DA submission for Master’s & Doctoral (first-time) | August 2026: SARAO Master’s & Doctoral applicant closing
Funding Amounts: Master's: up to R182,836/year (FCS) or R126,836/year (PCS); Doctoral: up to R188,820/year (FCS) or R131,320/year (PCS); Honours: up to R163,892/year (FCS) or R124,892/year (PCS); plus allowances.
Summary: Scholarships supporting full-time Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral studies in all fields at South African public universities, with priority for transformation and research excellence.
Key Information: All dates are projected; consult the NRF page for updates before applying.
Description
The DSI-NRF postgraduate scholarships provide financial support for new and continuing Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral students at South African public universities. The program aims to advance research capacity, promote transformation, and support national priorities across Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Funding is available for both general and grantholder-linked (project-linked) scholarships, with additional targeted opportunities for specific disciplines and partner programs (e.g., SARAO, SASOL, DAAD, MINDS). The scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis, with Full Cost of Study (FCS) reserved for exceptional achievers, financially needy students, and those living with disabilities.
