NRF postgraduate scholarships fund full-time research degrees in science, engineering, technology, social sciences, and humanities at South African public universities.
Funder: National Research Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026
Funding Amounts: Honours: R163,892/year (FCS), R124,892/year (PCS) | Master's: R182,836/year (FCS), R126,836/year (PCS) | Doctoral: R188,820/year (FCS), R131,320/year (PCS) | Duration: 1–3 years by degree
Summary: Provides competitive scholarships for full-time honours, master’s, and doctoral studies at South African public universities, supporting research in science, engineering, technology, social sciences, and humanities.
Key Information: Applicants must use the NRF Connect system; strict eligibility on age, academic performance, and citizenship applies.
This funding opportunity from the National Research Foundation (NRF) supports full-time postgraduate study (honours, master’s, and doctoral levels) at South African public universities. The scheme aims to develop research capacity and support high-achieving students in science, engineering, technology, social sciences, and humanities, including indigenous knowledge systems. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis, with special provisions for financially needy students, those living with disabilities, and exceptional academic achievers, in alignment with national transformation and research priorities.
Applicants must adhere to both the NRF General Application Guide and the specific guidelines for their intended scholarship category. Funding is available for both general scholarships and those linked to NRF-funded research projects.