The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in collaboration with the National Research Foundation (NRF), invites South African students to apply for the prestigious DSTI–NRF Honours Scholarship Programme for the 2026 academic year. This opportunity supports full-time Honours studies across a wide range of fields, from Science, Engineering, and Technology to Social Sciences, Humanities, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to South African citizens and permanent residents who meet the academic and eligibility criteria. Applicants may qualify for one of two funding options: Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS).
To be considered for first-time Honours funding, students should typically have achieved a minimum average of 65% in their final-year subjects or in their major. This ensures that funding is directed toward candidates who demonstrate academic strength and commitment.
Applications are welcome from current final-year undergraduates, recent graduates, and those awaiting final results. Final grades may be submitted later via the NRF Designated Authority at the applicant’s university.
Key Dates and Application Details
- Opening Date: 1 July 2025
- University Internal Deadline: Varies depending on the institution; early applications are encouraged via university NRF officials
- NRF National Deadline: Candidates requiring ISFAP assessments must apply before the end of August 2025
- Funding Commences: Academic year 2026
What the Scholarship Covers
The DSTI–NRF Scholarship offers financial support through two structured tiers:
Full Cost of Study (FCS)
This comprehensive funding package covers:
- Tuition fees
- Student accommodation
- A living allowance
- Learning materials
FCS is typically awarded to students with household incomes of R350,000 or less, students living with disabilities, or those who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement.
Partial Cost of Study (PCS)
This tier provides:
- Partial tuition support
- Accommodation assistance
PCS is commonly awarded to permanent residents and high-performing international students who meet the academic requirements but fall outside the FCS criteria.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Supporting Academic Growth
The scholarship removes financial barriers, allowing students to focus fully on their research, academic development, and scholarly contributions—without the added burden of financial strain.
Developing South Africa’s Research Potential
By investing in Honours-level education, the DSTI and NRF are helping build a new generation of researchers, scientists, and critical thinkers who will contribute to South Africa’s innovation landscape.
Pathway to Further Study
Receiving Honours funding often opens the door to continued academic support at the Master’s or Doctoral level under the same DSTI–NRF system.
Application Requirements
To apply, prospective students should prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- Full academic transcript, including final undergraduate results or Honours marks if available
- Financial documents (for FCS applicants only)
- Study proposal or academic plan
- A letter of support from the prospective supervisor
Applicants must follow the detailed instructions provided by their university’s NRF Designated Authority to complete the submission process.
Closing Date
The final deadline to submit applications is 21 November 2025.
Final Thoughts
The DSTI–NRF Honours Scholarship Programme is more than a funding opportunity—it’s an essential investment in South Africa’s future. For students who are academically ambitious and eager to contribute to national research goals, this scholarship provides the financial support and academic platform to succeed.
Be sure to prepare your documentation early, stay in contact with your university’s NRF office, and apply with confidence. This could be your first step toward a lasting impact in research and innovation.