Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Bursaries 2027: Study Funding for Students
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to unemployed South African students. This opportunity is for those pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in fields critical to the CSIR’s research and innovation goals. Applications are open to students with strong academic records who intend to study full-time at public universities in South Africa.
Application Closing Date: 15 September 2026
Location: Public universities across South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (funding covers various study-related expenses)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (for undergraduate), Honours, Master’s, PhD
About the CSIR Bursary Programme 2027
The CSIR Bursary Programme aims to support talented and motivated students who are committed to advancing science and technology in South Africa. It focuses on developing a pipeline of skilled professionals in areas that align with the CSIR’s strategic research, technology development, and innovation functions. The bursary is designed to assist full-time unemployed students who demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for research.
This programme is open to individuals pursuing undergraduate degrees, as well as postgraduate studies including Honours, Master’s, and doctoral qualifications. The CSIR encourages applications from female students, black students, and individuals living with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to equity and inclusion in STEM fields. Successful applicants will gain valuable academic support and exposure to real-world research environments.
About the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research and development organisation in Africa. It operates as a statutory council established by an Act of Parliament. The CSIR plays a significant role in driving innovation and economic growth in South Africa through its extensive research and development activities.
The organisation focuses on a wide range of scientific and technological disciplines, aiming to translate research into tangible benefits for society and industry. Its work spans various sectors, contributing to advancements in areas such as manufacturing, health, energy, and the environment. The CSIR is committed to developing human capital and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and technological advancement.
Available Bursary Opportunities
Bursaries are available for studies in a variety of fields considered essential for the CSIR’s research and development mandate. These include both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Undergraduate Fields of Study:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Geology
- Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Oceanography
- Rock Mapping
Honours Fields of Study:
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Electronic Engineering
- Geoinformatics
- Information Systems
Master’s Fields of Study:
- Architecture
- Biology or Health Science
- Biomedical Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Computer Systems Engineering
- Data Science
- Development Planning
- Digital Government and Innovation System Research
- Ecology
- Electronic Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Geoinformatics
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Systems
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Metallurgy
- Organic Chemistry
- Port and Coastal Engineering
Doctoral Fields of Study:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biostatistics
- Biotechnology
- Computer Engineering
- Digital Government and Innovation Systems Research
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Systems
- Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Organic Chemistry
What the CSIR Bursary Covers
The bursary funding is designed to alleviate the financial burden of studying, with components varying based on the level of study. For undergraduate and Honours students, the bursary may cover registration fees, tuition fees, prescribed books, a once-off laptop allowance, accommodation, and a living allowance. These provisions aim to support students comprehensively throughout their academic journey.
For Master’s and doctoral students, the funding typically includes registration fees, tuition fees, a once-off laptop allowance, and a living allowance. While specific maximum values for each component are not detailed, the aim is to provide substantial support. All bursary recipients also benefit from additional support services, including academic and psychological support, and vacation-work opportunities.
Additional Benefits for All Bursary Recipients
Successful bursary recipients gain access to a range of benefits designed to support their academic and professional development. These include academic and psychological support services, as well as a student-wellness programme. Vacation-work opportunities, lasting up to six weeks per year, offer practical experience and exposure to real-life research and innovation projects.
Further benefits include potential work-placement opportunities at the CSIR or related organisations, and recognition through CSIR Excellence Awards. Top-performing students may receive certificates and other awards. Interview-skills training is provided for final-year students, along with an onboarding session with the CSIR and Sasol Foundation teams. Mentorship from senior CSIR professionals is also a possibility.
Additional Benefits for Postgraduate Students
Postgraduate students, pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees, receive additional specialized support. This includes experimental-cost funding of up to R35,000 per year and access to laboratories at the CSIR and other institutions. Conference funding, both national and international, is also available up to R35,000 annually.
Postgraduate scholars benefit from research-skills workshops, academic-writing development, and support for thesis, dissertation, and publication processes. They also receive printing-cost support and an opportunity to attend the CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium. These resources are aimed at fostering high-quality research and enhancing their academic profiles.
Work-Back Requirement
A significant condition of the CSIR bursary is the work-back obligation upon graduation. Recipients are required to work for the CSIR for a period equivalent to the duration of the bursary funding received. For example, if a student receives bursary funding for two years, they will be expected to work for the CSIR for two years after completing their studies.
This service obligation is a commitment to contributing their newly acquired skills and knowledge back to the organisation and its research initiatives. Applicants must carefully consider this requirement before accepting the bursary offer, as the exact employment conditions will be detailed in the bursary agreement.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the CSIR Bursary Programme, applicants must meet specific criteria based on their current academic status. For current Matric learners, the requirements include being a South African citizen, unemployed, and under 35 years old. They must be completing Matric in 2026 and intend to study full-time in an approved undergraduate field at a South African public university in 2027.
Current university students must also be South African citizens, unemployed, and under 35 years old, studying full-time in an approved field. They need to have an overall academic average of at least 65% and have passed all registered modules for the completed study period. Master’s and doctoral applicants must demonstrate strong research capabilities and relevant skills.
Matric Academic Requirements
For students currently in Matric, specific academic achievements are necessary to qualify for the undergraduate bursary. Applicants must achieve at least a Level 5 for English, which demonstrates proficiency in communication. Furthermore, a Level 6 is required for both Mathematics and Physical Science.
It is important for applicants to ensure they are taking Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy, if their chosen qualification specifically requires Mathematics. These academic benchmarks reflect the CSIR’s focus on foundational skills essential for success in STEM fields. Meeting these requirements is a key step in the application process.
Academic Performance Requirement
For current university students applying for Honours, Master’s, or doctoral bursaries, maintaining a strong academic record is paramount. Applicants must achieve and maintain a minimum overall academic average of 65%. This merit-based approach ensures that the bursary supports students who have consistently demonstrated academic excellence.
In addition to the overall average, all registered courses for the completed academic period must have been passed. Students with failed or outstanding modules may not meet the stated eligibility criteria. This emphasis on academic performance highlights the CSIR’s commitment to investing in high-achieving individuals.
Competencies Required
Beyond academic qualifications, the CSIR looks for candidates with specific skills and personal attributes that align with a research-intensive environment. Strong scientific-writing ability is essential, particularly for postgraduate applicants, along with excellent academic performance. Good organisational and time-management skills are crucial for handling demanding research projects.
Candidates should also possess motivation to conduct research, the ability to work both independently and effectively in a team, and the capacity to formulate and conduct research. Strong technical ability, the capacity to work under pressure, and the ability to meet scheduled deliverables are also valued. Good verbal and written communication skills, along with enthusiasm and initiative, are important for success.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary programme is ideal for unemployed South African students who are passionate about science, technology, and innovation. It is particularly suited for those who have a strong academic background and are eager to pursue further studies in fields that contribute to national development and research advancements. The CSIR encourages individuals who are self-motivated, eager to learn, and possess a strong desire to contribute to scientific discovery.
The programme is also a great opportunity for students who may face financial barriers to higher education but possess the academic potential to excel. The emphasis on specific STEM fields means applicants should have a clear interest and aptitude for engineering, IT, science, or related disciplines. If you are driven to make a difference through research and innovation, this bursary could be the right fit for you.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload clear copies of several essential documents to support their application. These typically include a certified copy of their South African identity document, which verifies their citizenship. An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing their academic history, skills, and any relevant experience is also required.
Additionally, applicants must submit their latest academic record. For Master’s and doctoral applicants, proof of a completed relevant degree is also a mandatory requirement. Missing or unclear documents can lead to disqualification, so it is important to ensure all submissions are accurate and complete.
Curriculum Vitae Requirements
Your Curriculum Vitae (CV) should be comprehensive and well-organized, providing a clear overview of your qualifications and experiences. It should include your full personal details and current contact information. Detail your education history, including your current qualification and any academic achievements.
Highlight relevant technical skills, research experience (especially for postgraduate applicants), and any significant projects or publications. Include information on leadership or extracurricular activities, and any employment or vacation-work experience. If requested, provide references. For postgraduate applicants, emphasizing research experience, conference presentations, and publications is particularly important.
How to Apply for the CSIR Bursary South Africa 2027
Applications for the CSIR Bursary Programme must be submitted online through the official CSIR Bursary Portal. It is important to visit the portal and register an account before proceeding with the application. Once registered, you can sign in and complete the application form, selecting the appropriate study level and field of study.
Ensure all compulsory personal and academic sections are filled out accurately. Upload the required certified documents, including your identity document, CV, and latest academic record. For Master’s and doctoral candidates, proof of a completed degree is also necessary. Carefully review your entire application before submitting it to ensure all information is correct and that you meet the closing date of 15 September 2026.
Online Application Steps
To successfully apply for the CSIR Bursary, follow these steps:
- Access the official CSIR Bursary Portal.
- Register a new applicant account using your details.
- Sign in to the portal with your registered username and password.
- Select the correct study level (undergraduate, Honours, Master’s, or PhD).
- Choose the relevant field of study that aligns with your academic pursuits.
- Complete all compulsory personal and academic sections of the application form.
- Upload a clear, certified copy of your South African identity document.
- Upload your updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Upload your latest academic record.
- For Master’s and doctoral applicants, upload proof of your completed degree.
- Review your application thoroughly to check for any errors or omissions.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Bursary Application Closing Date
The deadline for submitting applications for the CSIR Bursary Programme 2027 is 15 September 2026. It is strongly advised that applicants submit their applications well before this date. Applying early allows ample time to register on the portal, upload all necessary documents, and correct any potential errors in the application.
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered. Therefore, ensure all steps are completed and the application is submitted on time to avoid missing this valuable opportunity.
Important Application Conditions
Applicants should be aware of several key conditions for the CSIR Bursary Programme. The bursary is specifically for full-time, unemployed South African citizens under the age of 35. University applicants need a minimum 65% average and must have passed all their modules. Matric applicants must meet the specified requirements for English, Mathematics, and Physical Science.
All required supporting documents must be submitted. Recipients are obligated to work for the CSIR for a period equal to the bursary duration after graduation. It is important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that funding will be awarded, as selection is competitive.
Important Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, please confirm the following:
- You are a South African citizen.
- You are currently unemployed.
- You are younger than 35 years old.
- Your intended field of study is funded by the CSIR.
- You are studying or intend to study full-time.
- You attend or plan to attend a South African public university.
- You meet the academic requirements for your specific study level.
- You have successfully passed all registered modules in previous academic periods.
- Your identity document is certified.
- Your CV is up-to-date and comprehensive.
- Your latest academic record is ready for upload.
- Proof of your completed degree is attached if applicable (for postgraduate).
- You understand and accept the work-back requirement.
- You will submit your online application by 15 September 2026.
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