The CSIR Bursary Programme financially supports full-time, unemployed students in obtaining qualifications in areas that are deemed a priority by the CSIR. Bursary Overview Application Details Eligibility The bursary is open to academically qualifying young people and aims to attract and increase the participation of women, black and disabled people in science, engineering and technology, specifically in the areas of study mentioned below: Areas for undergraduate bursary Electronic Engineering Computer Engineering Aeronautical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Civil Engineering Rock Mapping Information Technology Geology Oceanography Areas for Honours Bursary Electronic Engineering Computer Science Information Systems Data Science Civil Engineering Geoinformatics Areas for master’s bursary Computer Science Computer Engineering Electronic Engineering Biology/Health Science Biomedical Science Metallurgy Mechanical Engineering Architecture Development Planning Computer Systems Engineering Digital Government and Innovation System Research Industrial Engineering Biomedical Engineering Environmental Science Ecology Information Systems Biotechnology Mechatronics Engineering Port and Coastal Engineering Organic Chemistry Geoinformatics Data Science Areas for doctoral bursary Electronic Engineering Computer Engineering Microbiology Biotechnology Biostatistics Aeronautical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Digital Government and Innovation Systems Research Industrial Engineering Information Systems Information Technology Organic Chemistry Requirements Current grade 12 learners: South African citizen Must intend to enrol full-time for the degree of choice at a South African public university; English (Level 5); Mathematics (Level 6); and Physical Science (Level 6). Current university students: Must be a South African citizen; Planning to enrol full-time at a South African university for 2027; and Must have passed all the registered courses for the completed study period at the university. For master’s and doctoral bursaries, applicants should be South African citizens who possess the following: Good scientific writing skills Good organisational and time management skills Excellent academic record A drive to conduct research, self-motivation and the ability to work independently and within a team are essential The ability to formulate and carry out research Excellent technical abilities The ability to work well under pressure as part of a team and meet scheduled deliverables; Good communication skills, both verbal and written (e.g. with evidence of reports and/or conference papers written) Good report-writing abilities Furthermore, the ideal candidate is an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual who takes ownership and initiative. He/she must also meet the entry requirements for a master’s or doctoral bursary at a selected university. The following documents must accompany your application: An updated CV A copy of your certified identity document A copy of your latest academic record For master’s and doctoral applicants, proof of a degree already completed must be included. Failure to attach these documents will render your application null and void. Bursary covers This is a comprehensive bursary, and it covers all the costs associated with university studies, such as: For undergraduates and Honours Registration fees Tuition fees Books Accommodation Living allowances Once-off laptop allowance For master’s and doctoral Registration fees Tuition fees Living allowances Once-off laptop allowance Academic merit will be considered during the selection process, and it is imperative to increase the participation of women and black people in science, engineering and technology. Additional benefits CSIR students will also receive additional support through the following initiatives: Recognition of Top Performing students – CSIR Excellence Awards, certificates and gifts handed out Possible work placement opportunities at CSIR and other affiliated organisations Interview skills training offered to final year students in preparation for the world of work Opportunity to work on real-life projects that address socio-economic challenges through your research (CSIR co-supervision) Onboarding session and an opportunity to meet the CSIR team Psychosocial support (e.g academic and psychological support) Student wellness programme Opportunity to be paired with senior CSIR professionals through a mentorship programme Vacation work opportunities of up to six (6) weeks per annum Only applicable to postgraduate students: Experimental costs funding of up to R35 000 per annum – Access to laboratories at CSIR and other institutions National and international conference attendance funding opportunity of up to R35 000 per annum Research skills training workshops to sharpen your academic writing skills Thesis/dissertation/Research publications and printing costs funding and Opportunity to attend CSIR Emerging Researchers Symposium – Showcase research project and networking Obligations You are obligated to work back every year that the CSIR has provided funding. Attachments [CSIR Bursary-Guidelines.pdf](https://www.csir.co.za/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026%20CSIR%20Bursary-Guidelines.pdf) For more information on the CSIR bursary, please contact the CSIR Bursary Programme team. Tel: (012) 841-2616 Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za