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The CSIR Bursary Program 2026 is a top choice for students who want to study science, engineering, and technology. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading research organization in South Africa. They work on solutions for big problems like energy, health, defence, and the environment. This bursary helps bright young people pay for university studies in key areas. It supports full-time students who are unemployed and show strong academic promise.https://www.csir.co.za/careers/students-graduates/bursaries
Quick Summary of the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
| Bursary Name | CSIR Bursary Program |
|---|---|
| Company / Organization | Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
| Fields Covered | Science, Engineering, Technology (e.g., Aeronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Mechatronics, Physics, and priority CSIR research areas) |
| Who Can Apply | South African citizens, full-time unemployed students planning or enrolled in 2026 studies, strong academic record, focus on women, black, and disabled individuals in STEM |
| Closing Date | 29 August 2025 (closed for 2026 intake) |
| How to Apply | Online via CSIR bursary portal (bursaryconnect.csir.co.za) |
Table of Contents
- Bursary Overview
- Who the Bursary is For
- Fields of Study Covered
- What the Bursary Covers
- Eligibility Requirements
- Required Documents
- Step-by-Step How to Apply
- Closing Date
- Selection Process
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Important Notes & Warnings
- Related Searches Section
CSIR Bursary Program 2026 Overview
The CSIR Bursary Program gives financial help to students studying in areas important to South Africa’s research and innovation needs. The CSIR does important work in fields like defence, energy, health, and the environment. They want to train more experts to solve real problems facing the country. This bursary is for full-time studies at public South African universities. It covers undergraduate and postgraduate levels, from Honours to PhD.
The program is merit-based, meaning it looks at your marks and potential. It also aims to include more women, black people, and people with disabilities in science and tech. Many students get support for research costs, like lab work or experiments. Some bursaries come through partnerships, like with the Sasol Foundation or the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).
South Africa needs more scientists and engineers to grow the economy and create jobs. CSIR bursaries help by funding studies in priority areas. Winners often do research that helps industry or government. This makes the bursary a strong start for a career in research or tech. Past students have worked on projects that improve lives, like better water management or new materials.
The bursary is competitive but fair. CSIR advertises it every year, usually in July or August. It is one of the best for STEM students who want to make a difference in South Africa. For other science funding, see Open Bursaries or Science Bursaries.
CSIR’s work touches many parts of life, from weather to health tech. By supporting students, they build the next generation of innovators. This bursary is a real investment in South Africa’s future.
Who can apply for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
The CSIR Bursary Program is for South African citizens who are unemployed and studying full-time. It suits matric leavers starting university or current students in Honors, Masters, or PhD programs.
It targets students with strong marks who want careers in research or tech. CSIR wants more women, black people, and people with disabilities in these fields. If you come from a disadvantaged background but have good results, this bursary can help you succeed.
This is perfect if you are passionate about science and want to work on real problems. For similar bursaries, see Closing Soon.
Fields of Study Covered by CSIR Bursary Program 2026
The CSIR Bursary Program supports priority areas like:
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Technology
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Physics
- Other CSIR-aligned research fields (e.g., biotechnology, materials science)
Studies must be full-time at a public South African university. For engineering, check Engineering Bursaries.
What the CSIR Bursary Program 2026 Covers
The bursary is comprehensive and covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books and study materials
- Monthly stipend
- Research costs (for postgraduate)
- Laptop allowance (in some cases)
It is full funding to support your studies completely.
Who can apply for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
To qualify:
- South African citizen
- Full-time studies at a public SA university in 2026
- Unemployed
- Strong academic record (e.g., passed all courses)
- Under 35 years old (often)
- Studying in CSIR priority areas
Preference for women, black, and disabled students in STEM.
Required Documents when applying for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
You need:
- Updated CV
- Certified ID copy
- Latest academic record/transcripts
- Proof of degree completion (for postgraduate)
- Other as per application portal
All documents must be certified.
Step-by-Step How to Apply for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
- Go to bursaryconnect.csir.co.za or csir.co.za/bursaries
- Register and access the form
- Fill in personal, academic, and motivation details
- Upload required documents
- Submit before deadline
Contact bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za if needed.
Closing Date for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
29 August 2025. Closed now for 2026. Applications usually open July/August.
Selection Process when applying for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
CSIR reviews applications based on academics, motivation, and alignment with priority areas. Shortlisted candidates may get interviews or further checks.
Frequently Asked Questions when applying for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
What fields qualify?
Priority STEM areas like engineering, computer science, data science.
Is it full funding?
Yes – tuition, accommodation, stipend, research costs.
Do I have to work for CSIR?
Not always, but aligned with skills needs.
For undergrad only?
No – also Honours, Masters, PhD.
Age limit?
Often under 35.
Contact?
bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za or +27 (12) 841-2616.
Important Notes & Warnings when applying for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
- Applications closed for 2026; check for 2027.
- Only public universities.
- Use official CSIR portal only – avoid scams.
- Submit complete docs.
- Strong academics essential.
- Preference for transformation groups.
Related Searches Section when applying for the CSIR Bursary Program 2026
Engineering bursaries in South Africa Bursaries open now 2026 Government bursaries for students NSFAS alternatives Science bursaries SA Technology funding 2026 Computer science scholarships Data science bursaries Merit bursaries 2026 CSIR alternatives Research bursaries South Africa STEM scholarships Africa Postgraduate science aid Engineering Honours bursaries Youth innovation funding SAhttps://bursariesopennow.co.za/bursaries-closing-soon/