CSIR Bursary Programme. The CSIR Bursary Programme 2027 is now accepting applications from eligible South African students who want to study science, engineering, and technology (SET) qualifications at public universities. This prestigious bursary, offered by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), provides comprehensive financial support to help talented students achieve their academic and career goals.
Whether you are a Grade 12 learner, an undergraduate, an Honours student, or pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree, the CSIR Bursary Programme offers an excellent opportunity to receive full financial assistance while gaining access to mentorship, research opportunities, and career development initiatives.
What Is the CSIR Bursary Programme 2027?
The CSIR Bursary Programme is designed to support academically outstanding South African students who are passionate about science, engineering, technology, and innovation. The programme aims to develop future researchers, engineers, scientists, and technology professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s economic and scientific growth.
The bursary is available to full-time students studying at South African public universities. The CSIR also promotes diversity by encouraging applications from women, Black South Africans, and persons with disabilities.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports several qualifications across priority disciplines.
Undergraduate Programmes
Students studying the following fields are encouraged to apply:
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Information Technology
- Geology
- Rock Mapping
- Oceanography
Honours Programmes
Funding is available for students pursuing:
- Computer Science
- Information Systems
- Electronic Engineering
- Data Science
- Civil Engineering
- Geoinformatics
Master’s Programmes
Eligible fields include:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biology and Health Science
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Architecture
- Development Planning
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Data Science
- Information Systems
- Organic Chemistry
- Metallurgy
- Port and Coastal Engineering
- Geoinformatics
- Digital Government and Innovation Systems Research
Doctoral Programmes
Doctoral funding is available in:
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Biostatistics
- Information Technology
- Information Systems
- Organic Chemistry
- Industrial Engineering
- Digital Government and Innovation Systems Research
CSIR Bursary Eligibility Requirements
Grade 12 Applicants
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Intend to study full-time at a South African public university in 2027.
- Achieve at least:
- English Level 5
- Mathematics Level 6
- Physical Sciences Level 6
Current University Students
Applicants should:
- Be South African citizens.
- Study full-time in 2027.
- Successfully pass all registered modules for their current year of study.
Master’s and Doctoral Applicants
Postgraduate applicants must demonstrate:
- An excellent academic record.
- Strong research and scientific abilities.
- Good communication and report-writing skills.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
- Admission eligibility for the selected postgraduate programme.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Latest academic transcript
- Proof of completed qualification (Master’s and Doctoral applicants)
Applications submitted without the required documents may not be considered.
What Does the CSIR Bursary Cover?
The CSIR Bursary is one of South Africa’s most comprehensive funding programmes.
Undergraduate and Honours Students Receive
- Registration fees
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation costs
- Monthly living allowance
- Once-off laptop allowance
Master’s and Doctoral Students Receive
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Laptop allowance
Academic performance plays an important role during the selection process.
Additional Benefits of the CSIR Bursary
Besides financial support, successful applicants enjoy numerous career development opportunities, including:
- Professional mentorship from CSIR researchers.
- Vacation work opportunities.
- Academic and wellness support.
- Research project participation.
- Employability and interview preparation.
- Networking events with industry experts.
- Recognition through the CSIR Excellence Awards.
Extra Benefits for Postgraduate Students
Master’s and Doctoral students may also receive:
- Up to R35,000 annually for research and experimental costs.
- Up to R35,000 per year to attend local and international conferences.
- Access to CSIR laboratories and advanced research facilities.
- Academic writing workshops.
- Funding for dissertations, theses, and research publications.
- Opportunities to present research at the CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium.
Work-Back Obligation
Students who receive the CSIR Bursary will be required to work for the CSIR after completing their studies. The work-back period will generally match the number of years they received bursary funding.
Why Apply for the CSIR Bursary Programme?
The CSIR Bursary Programme offers much more than financial assistance. It provides students with practical research experience, industry exposure, mentorship from experienced professionals, and valuable networking opportunities that can lead to successful careers in science, engineering, and technology.
If you are committed to academic excellence and want to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s future, this bursary is an outstanding opportunity.
How to Apply for the CSIR Bursary Programme 2027
Interested applicants should complete the online application before the closing date and upload all required supporting documents. Ensure that your information is accurate and that all documents are certified where required.
Early applications are recommended, as incomplete or late submissions may not be considered.
Conclusion
The CSIR Bursary Programme 2027 is an excellent funding opportunity for ambitious South African students pursuing qualifications in science, engineering, and technology. With full financial support, research opportunities, mentorship, and professional development, the programme helps students build successful careers while contributing to innovation and national development. If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your documents and submit your application as soon as possible to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
