Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
CSIR Bursary
Closes
15 September 2026
Value
Full cost plus allowances
Level
Undergrad, Honours, Masters, PhD
For
Unemployed SA citizens under 35
Sector
Science & Technology
Work-back
1 year per year funded
About this bursary
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research offers comprehensive bursaries for South African students pursuing degrees in priority science, engineering, and technology fields. The funding covers full academic fees, accommodation, living expenses, and study resources.
This programme aims to develop skilled researchers, engineers, and technical experts to solve national challenges. It targets unemployed South Africans under 35, with special encouragement for female applicants, black candidates, and students with disabilities.
Bursary holders must complete a work-back contract matching their funding duration. Recipients also get access to vacation work, professional mentorship, research funding, and opportunities to join the organisation after graduation.
Obligation
Recipients must work for the CSIR for one year for every year of funding received.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- Applicants must be South African citizens under the age of 35 who are currently unemployed.
- High school applicants in matric need minimum achievement levels of Level 5 in English and Level 6 in both Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Current university students require a cumulative average of at least 65% with all enrolled subjects passed.
- Postgraduate applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic records, strong scientific writing, and independent research skills.
- All applicants must plan to study full-time at an accredited public university in South Africa.
You do not qualify if
- Part-time students and non-South African citizens do not qualify.
- Applicants over 35 years of age are not eligible.
- Students enrolled at private higher education institutions are excluded.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Updated curriculum vitae
- Latest official academic transcript or matric results
- Proof of completed prior degrees for postgraduate applicants
Submit clear certified copies of all supporting documents with your online application.
How to apply
- 11. Review the official CSIR bursary guidelines before beginning your application.
- 22. Register a new user profile on the CSIR Bursary Connect portal.
- 33. Complete the online application form with your personal and study details.
- 44. Upload clear copies of all required supporting documents.
- 55. Submit your completed application prior to the closing deadline.
Incomplete applications or submissions missing mandatory documents will be disqualified.