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
