DSTI-NRF Honours Funding Applications Open for 2026 Academic Year
The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), in partnership with the National Research Foundation (NRF), has officially opened applications for DSTI-NRF Honours Funding for the 2026 academic year.
This prestigious honours scholarship aims to support South African citizens and permanent residents pursuing postgraduate studies in fields such as Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, and the Humanities.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the DSTI-NRF Honours Scholarship, applicants must:
• Be South African citizens or permanent residents
• Have achieved a minimum average of 65% in their final-year undergraduate major subjects
• Be applying to study towards an Honours degree in 2026
Types of Funding Available
The NRF will offer support under two funding categories:
• Full Cost of Study (FCS): Awarded to students who are financially needy (with a household income of R350,000 or less per annum), living with a disability, or who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement
• Partial Cost of Study (PCS): Provided to eligible students who meet the minimum academic and funding criteria but do not qualify for full funding
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the NRF Connect System. No manual applications will be accepted.
Application Deadline:
• Closing Date for Applicants: 21 November 2025
This funding opportunity is designed to help students further their studies and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s knowledge economy. If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply early to avoid missing out.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.nrf.ac.za/






