Can an NRF bursary be held alongside a university bursary?

NRF bursary holders may hold other awards but must disclose all sources of funding. There are limits on the total value of concurrent awards, depending on the specific instrument.

Are NRF bursaries available for honours degrees?

Yes. The NRF has specific funding instruments for honours-level students, including the Honours Bursary instrument for South African students in science, engineering, and technology.

Does the NRF fund students studying in the humanities or social sciences?

Yes. The NRF funds research and postgraduate study across all disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, law, and education research.

How long does it take to receive a decision on my NRF application?

The NRF peer review process typically takes 3-6 months. Applicants should plan accordingly and ensure they have interim financial support while awaiting a decision.

Can I apply for an NRF bursary if I am already employed?

Some NRF instruments allow employed individuals to apply, particularly for part-time master's or doctoral studies. Check the specific eligibility criteria for the relevant instrument on the NRF website.

Last updated: June 2026— Information is subject to change. Always verify with the relevant government department.

NRF Bursary 2026: Complete Guide for South African Students

The National Research Foundation (NRF), a public entity of the Department of Science and Innovation, is South Africa's primary funder of research and postgraduate education. The NRF offers a range of bursaries and fellowships for South African students at honours, master's, and doctoral level across all disciplines. Applications are submitted through the NRF Online Submission System and deadlines vary by funding instrument.

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About the National Research Foundation Bursary

The National Research Foundation was established under the NRF Act of 1998 and is headquartered in Pretoria. It funds research and the development of human capital across all scientific disciplines, from natural and social sciences to humanities and engineering, through grants to universities, research chairs, and student bursary programmes. The NRF's student funding instruments are among the most important mechanisms for developing South Africa's research capacity and building a pipeline of future scientists, academics, and innovators. The Foundation awards several thousand bursaries annually at honours, master's, and doctoral level, supporting students at all accredited South African universities. Unlike corporate bursaries, NRF bursaries typically do not carry a work-back obligation with a specific employer. Instead, recipients are encouraged to contribute to South Africa's research community as academics, researchers, or scientists. The NRF also funds some postdoctoral fellowships for researchers who have recently completed their PhD.

What the Bursary Covers

Tuition and registration fees (depending on the specific instrument)
Monthly living allowance
Research-related costs such as equipment, travel, and data collection
Conference attendance and presentation funding
Publication support costs (for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers)

Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship: South African citizen or permanent resident (some instruments open to international students registered at South African universities)
Age limit: Age limits vary by instrument; doctoral bursaries typically require applicants to be under 35 at registration
Study level: Honours, Master's (coursework or research), or Doctoral (PhD) at an accredited South African university
Fields of study: Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Sciences), Engineering and Technology, Agricultural Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities, Health Sciences, Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Education Research
Academic average: Minimum 65% average in your most recent completed degree; doctoral applicants typically require 70% or above at master's level
Financial need: Financial need is not a primary criterion for most NRF instruments; selection is based predominantly on academic merit and research quality
Work-back obligation: No formal work-back obligation; recipients are encouraged to contribute to South African research and higher education

When to Apply

Application deadlines vary by funding instrument. Most instruments open in March-April and close in June-July for the following year. Consult nrf.ac.za for specific deadlines.

How to Apply — Step by Step

Register on the NRF Online Submission System (OSS) at nrf.ac.za.
Identify the correct funding instrument for your level of study and field of research.
Complete the online application form, including your research proposal or study plan.
Obtain a letter of support from your supervisor or institution.
Upload all required documents before the instrument-specific deadline.
Applications are assessed by peer reviewers; outcomes are communicated several months after the deadline.

Documents Required

South African ID or passport
Certified academic transcripts for all completed qualifications
Proof of registration or acceptance at a South African university
Research proposal (for master's and doctoral applicants)
Supervisor motivation and support letter
Curriculum vitae (academic)
Publications list (if applicable)

Tips and Additional Information

The NRF manages several specialised funding instruments beyond the general bursary programme, including the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI), the Centre of Excellence programme, and Thuthuka (which specifically supports Black and women researchers). Students from historically disadvantaged groups are encouraged to explore the Thuthuka bursary, which provides additional support for academic development alongside the financial award.

Contact Details

Official website: https://www.nrf.ac.za/funding/
Email: info@nrf.ac.za
Phone: 012 481 4000
NRF bursaries are managed through the Online Submission System (OSS). Contact your university's research office for assistance with applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: CitizenHelp is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with any government department. This content is for general guidance only. Always verify with official sources before taking action.