DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027: NRF Extends Application Deadlines for Master’s and Doctoral Students
The National Research Foundation (NRF) has officially extended the application deadlines for first-time Master’s and Doctoral applicants seeking DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding for the 2027 academic year.
The updated application schedule gives prospective postgraduate students additional time to submit their funding applications through the NRF Connect online system. Students planning to study at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and other participating South African universities are encouraged to review the revised dates carefully and complete their applications before the new deadlines.
The funding programme supports eligible postgraduate students pursuing Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral qualifications, helping to reduce financial barriers while promoting research and innovation in South Africa.
DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027 Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027 |
| Funding Body | National Research Foundation (NRF) |
| Supported By | Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Study Level | Honours, Master’s and Doctoral |
| Application Method | Online via NRF Connect |
| Country | South Africa |
Updated Application Deadlines
The NRF has announced revised application dates for selected funding categories.
| Category | Opening Date | Student Closing Date |
|---|---|---|
| First-time Master’s (including SARAO) | 8 July 2026 | 15 July 2026 |
| First-time Doctoral (including SARAO) | 16 July 2026 | 23 July 2026 |
| Master’s & Doctoral Extension Support | Open | 14 August 2026 |
| Honours Funding | To Be Confirmed | To Be Confirmed |
Applicants are advised not to wait until the final day, as high traffic on the online portal may cause delays.
Who Should Apply?
The funding opportunity is open to:
- New Honours students.
- First-time Master’s students.
- First-time Doctoral students.
- Continuing Master’s students.
- Continuing Doctoral students.
Important: Continuing Master’s and Doctoral students are required to submit a progress report rather than submitting a new funding application.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following minimum requirement:
- Achieve a minimum average of 65% for the previous qualification.
Individual funding categories may have additional eligibility criteria published by the NRF.
Funding Available
The programme offers different funding models depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
Full Cost of Study (FCS)
Available primarily for:
- South African citizens.
- Permanent residents.
This funding may cover study-related expenses in accordance with NRF funding guidelines.
Partial Cost of Study (PCS)
Available through limited awards, including some international applicants, subject to eligibility and available funding.
Benefits of DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding
Successful applicants may benefit from:
- Financial support for postgraduate studies.
- Assistance with research-related costs.
- Reduced financial pressure while studying.
- Opportunities to contribute to nationally important research.
- Improved academic and career development.
- Access to South Africa’s research and innovation community.
Funding is subject to NRF terms and available budgets.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the NRF Connect portal.
Before applying, applicants should:
- Create or log into their NRF Connect account.
- Complete all required application sections.
- Upload supporting documents.
- Review all information before submission.
- Submit the application before the relevant closing date.
Continuing students should ensure they submit the required progress reports where applicable.
Documents You May Need
Although document requirements may vary, applicants should generally prepare:
- South African ID or passport.
- Academic transcripts.
- Degree certificates.
- Proof of previous qualifications.
- Research proposal (where required).
- Supervisor information.
- Supporting documentation requested by the NRF.
Applicants should refer to the official NRF guidelines for the complete document checklist.
Application Tips
To improve your chances of submitting a successful application:
- Apply well before the deadline.
- Ensure your academic record reflects the required average.
- Double-check all uploaded documents.
- Use accurate contact information.
- Read the funding guidelines carefully.
- Keep copies of all submitted documents.
Why This Funding Matters
Postgraduate funding plays an important role in supporting South Africa’s future researchers, academics, engineers, scientists, and innovators.
The DSTI-NRF programme helps talented students continue their studies while contributing to research that supports national development, technological advancement, and economic growth.
For many graduates, this funding can make postgraduate education more financially accessible.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the NRF Connect online portal.
Prospective CPUT students who require institutional assistance may contact the university’s postgraduate funding office.
CPUT Contact
Ms Phaphama Mhlekwa
Email: mhlekwap@cput.ac.za
Closing Dates
| Funding Category | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| First-time Master’s | 15 July 2026 |
| First-time Doctoral | 23 July 2026 |
| Master’s & Doctoral Extension Support | 14 August 2026 |
| Honours | To Be Confirmed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
New and continuing Honours, Master’s and Doctoral students who meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
2. What minimum academic average is required?
Applicants must have a minimum average of 65% for their previous qualification.
3. Have the application deadlines been extended?
Yes. The NRF has extended the application deadlines for first-time Master’s and Doctoral applicants for the 2027 academic year.
4. Do continuing postgraduate students submit a new application?
No. Continuing Master’s and Doctoral students should submit a progress report instead of a new application.
5. Can international students apply?
Some international applicants may qualify under the Partial Cost of Study (PCS) funding category, subject to available funding and eligibility requirements.
6. How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online through the NRF Connect portal.
7. Is funding guaranteed?
No. Funding is competitive and subject to eligibility, available funding, and NRF selection processes.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using information released by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). It is intended for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the NRF, DSTI, or CPUT. Applicants should always verify deadlines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures through the official NRF Connect platform before submitting an application.
Sources and References
- National Research Foundation (NRF)
- Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
- CPUT Postgraduate Funding Office
- Official DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Funding 2027 announcement
- NRF Connect Application Portal
