If you’re searching for a fully funded postgraduate scholarship in Africa, the National Research Foundation (NRF), in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), has officially opened applications for the DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Student Funding 2027.
This highly competitive funding program supports Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral (PhD) students across multiple disciplines, offering either Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS) funding.
Overview of DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | South Africa |
| Funding Bodies | DSTI & NRF |
| Study Levels | Honours, Master’s, PhD |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (FCS) / Partial (PCS) |
| Eligible Fields | All disciplines |
| Application Mode | Online via NRF Connect |
| Deadline | Varies by program |
What Does the DSTI-NRF Scholarship Cover?
The DSTI-NRF funding is structured into two categories:
1. Full Cost of Study (FCS)
This is the fully funded option, covering:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Living allowance
- Study materials
Who qualifies?
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- Applicants with financial need (household income ≤ R350,000/year)
- Students living with disabilities
- Exceptional academic performers
2. Partial Cost of Study (PCS)
This funding covers limited expenses and is awarded to:
- Up to 5% of international students
- South Africans who do not qualify for FCS but meet academic criteria
Eligible Fields of Study
The DSTI-NRF scholarship supports postgraduate research in:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
This makes it one of the most inclusive postgraduate funding programs in Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027, applicants must:
- Meet the minimum academic requirement of 65% average in their previous degree
- Apply for an eligible postgraduate program (Honours, Master’s, or PhD)
- Secure admission or intend to study at a recognized South African university
- Submit applications via the official NRF system
Important: Continuing students must submit a progress report, not a new application
Application Dates (2027 Intake)
Student Application Deadlines
| Study Level | Opening Date | Closing Date |
|---|---|---|
| NRF-SARAO Honours | 1 June 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| Honours (General) | 7 July 2026 | 23 November 2026 |
| First-time Master’s | 16 April 2026 | 3 July 2026 |
| First-time Doctoral | — | 3 July 2026 |
| Master’s & PhD Extension | — | 14 August 2026 |
Institutional (DA) Deadlines
| Application Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Master’s Applications | 4 September 2026 |
| Doctoral Applications | 4 September 2026 |
| Extension Support | 30 September 2026 |
| Honours Funding Claims | 29 January 2027 |
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the NRF Connect portal
- Create or log in to your account
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
Apply here: https://nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za/
Note: Manual or offline applications are NOT accepted.
Required Documents
Although requirements may vary, generally you’ll need:
- Academic transcripts
- ID or passport
- Proof of admission (if available)
- Research proposal (for Master’s/PhD)
- Supporting documents (financial proof, disability proof, etc.)
Contact Information
For inquiries, you can reach:
General Funding Queries
📧 postgraduatequeries@risa.nrf.ac.za
SARAO Enquiries
- Annah Mashemola – amashemola@sarao.ac.za
- Mkhululi Jodwana – mjodwana@sarao.ac.za
Technical Support
Why Apply for DSTI-NRF Funding?
Here’s why this scholarship stands out:
- Fully funded opportunities available
- Open to international students (limited slots)
- Covers a wide range of disciplines
- Supports research and innovation in Africa
- Recognised by top South African universities
FAQs
1. Is the DSTI-NRF scholarship fully funded?
Yes, Full Cost of Study (FCS) covers all major expenses, but only for eligible South African applicants.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes, but only up to 5% of awards are allocated to international students under Partial Cost of Study (PCS).
3. What is the minimum GPA required?
You need at least 65% average in your previous degree.
4. Can I apply without admission?
Yes, but you must intend to enrol at a recognized South African institution.
5. Where do I apply?
Applications must be submitted online via the NRF Connect platform.
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