Not specified
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Bursaries 2027
Role Overview
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research invites unemployed South African students to apply for the CSIR Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026
Bursary Location: Public universities across South Africa
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is offering merit-based bursaries to students pursuing qualifications in fields considered important to its research, technology-development, innovation and support functions.
The bursary is available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including Honours, Master’s and doctoral qualifications.
The programme is aimed at full-time unemployed students with strong academic records. Female students, black students and persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Bursary provider: Council for Scientific and Industrial ResearchProgramme: CSIR Bursary Programme 2027Academic year: 2027Study levels: Undergraduate, Honours, Master’s and PhDAge requirement: Under 35 yearsCitizenship: South African citizensStudy mode: Full-timeInstitution requirement: Public university in South AfricaClosing date: 15 September 2026Application method: Online
Undergraduate bursaries are available for studies in:
Current Matric learners must intend to study full-time in one of these fields during 2027.
Honours bursaries are available in:
Applicants must be enrolled or intend to enrol in an eligible full-time Honours programme.
Master’s bursaries are available in:
Digital Government and Innovation System Research
PhD bursaries are available in:
Digital Government and Innovation Systems Research
The expenses covered depend on the applicant’s level of study.
Undergraduate and Honours bursary funding may include:
Master’s and doctoral bursary funding may include:
The supplied information does not state the maximum value of each bursary component.
Successful students may also receive:
Academic and psychological support.
Access to a student-wellness programme.
Vacation-work opportunities of up to six weeks per year.
Exposure to real-life research and innovation projects.
CSIR co-supervision for relevant research.
Potential work-placement opportunities at the CSIR or related organisations.
Recognition through CSIR Excellence Awards.
Certificates and other awards for top-performing students.
Interview-skills training for final-year students.
An onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation teams.
Possible mentorship from senior CSIR professionals.
Master’s and PhD students may also receive:
Experimental-cost funding of up to R35 000 per year.
Access to laboratories at the CSIR and other institutions.
National and international conference funding of up to R35 000 per year.
Thesis, dissertation and publication support.
An opportunity to attend the CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium.
Research-presentation and networking opportunities.
After graduation, bursary recipients will be required to work for the CSIR.
One year of employment for every year of bursary funding received
Applicants should consider this work-back requirement before accepting a bursary offer.
The exact employment conditions will be contained in the bursary agreement.
Current Grade 12 applicants must:
Intend to study full-time in an approved undergraduate field in 2027.
Intend to enrol at a South African public university.
Meet the minimum subject requirements.
Current Matric students must achieve at least:
Applicants should ensure that they are taking Mathematics rather than Mathematical Literacy where the chosen qualification requires Mathematics.
Current university students must:
Be registered for an approved field.
Have an overall academic average of at least 65%.
Have passed all registered modules for the completed study period.
Applicants with failed or outstanding modules may not meet the stated eligibility requirements.
Master’s and doctoral applicants must also demonstrate:
Strong scientific-writing ability.
Excellent academic performance.
Motivation to conduct research.
Ability to work effectively in a team.
Ability to formulate and conduct research.
Ability to work under pressure.
Ability to meet scheduled deliverables.
Enthusiasm and self-motivation.
Eligibility for admission to the selected postgraduate programme.
University applicants must maintain a minimum overall average of:
The CSIR bursary is merit-based, and strong academic performance will be important during selection.
Applicants must also have passed all registered courses for the completed academic period.
Applicants must upload clear copies of:
A certified South African identity document.
Master’s and doctoral applicants must also submit:
Proof of a completed relevant degree.
Missing documents may result in the application being disqualified.
Research experience where applicable.
Leadership or extracurricular activities.
Employment or vacation-work experience.
Postgraduate applicants should i
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• Current Grade 12 applicants must:
• Be South African citizens.
• Be unemployed.
• Be younger than 35 years.
• Be completing Matric in 2026.
• Intend to study full-time in an approved undergraduate field in 2027.
• Intend to enrol at a South African public university.
• Meet the minimum subject requirements.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official CSIR Bursary Portal. Click here to apply for the CSIR Bursary South Africa 2027 Applicants must first register an account before signing in and completing the application. Applicants should also read the CSIR Bursary Guidelines for 2027 before submitting their applications.
About Not specified
This bursary is offered by Not specified.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Not specified can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 15 September 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Yes, this opportunity requires a matric certificate.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 15 September 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
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