South Africa NRF Scholarships and Fellowships
The National Research Foundation (NRF) provides funding for research and training to support the development of new knowledge and the next generation of researchers in South Africa.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
About the South Africa NRF Scholarships and Fellowships
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is an independent government agency established by the National Research Foundation Act (Act No. 23 of 1998). Its primary mandate is to contribute to national development by supporting and promoting research, training, and innovation across various scientific and academic disciplines.
The NRF serves as a central body for funding research infrastructure and human capital development. It aims to grow the next generation of researchers by providing financial support for students and scholars engaged in discovery science and academic inquiry.
Beyond direct student funding, the NRF manages several national research facilities, including the iThemba Laboratory for Accelerator Based Sciences, the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO).
The organization is committed to embedding engaged research into its core missions. This approach ensures that research activities address pressing socio-economic challenges while promoting innovation that impacts society, the economy, and the environment.
The NRF operates under a strict supply chain management policy that adheres to the South African Constitution, ensuring that all funding and procurement processes remain fair, equitable, transparent, and competitive.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Access to world-class research facilities like the MeerKAT telescope and iThemba Labs.
Funding from a primary government agency dedicated to national research development.
Opportunities to contribute to solving critical socio-economic challenges in South Africa.
Integration into a broad network of researchers and innovation experts.
Support for both fundamental discovery science and applied research.
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in South Africa
The NRF is the primary government agency for research funding in South Africa.
Eligibility Requirements
5 requirements
Documents Checklist
5 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Visit the official NRF Information Portal to view current funding opportunities.
Register an account on the NRF online application system.
Complete the application form for the specific scholarship or fellowship program.
Upload all required supporting documentation as specified in the call for applications.
Submit the application through the online portal before the stated deadline.
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Regularly monitor the NRF Information Portal for new calls for applications.
Ensure your research proposal clearly links to the NRF mandate of national development.
Check the specific requirements for each funding category as they vary by level.
Coordinate with your host institution to ensure all institutional data is correctly submitted.
Review the NRF Supply Chain Management and funding policies to understand compliance expectations.
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
The National Research Foundation is an independent South African government agency that funds research, training, and innovation.
Applications are managed through the NRF online Information Portal. You must register and submit your application during open call periods.
The NRF supports a wide range of fields including science, engineering, technology, humanities, and social sciences.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - confirm on official site. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
More Scholarships to Explore
Other opportunities you may qualify for
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
China ยท China Scholarship Council
Fully funded scholarship by the China Scholarship Council - covering tuition, accommodation, stipend, and medical insurance for international students at Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels. Two application routes available: bilateral government track and direct university route.
๐ Deadline: Type A (HEC Route): December-January | Typโฆ
Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS)
China ยท Shanghai Municipal Government - administered through individual Shanghai universities
Shanghai Municipal Government scholarship for international students at 30+ top universities in Shanghai. Two funding tiers: Type A (fully funded - tuition, housing, insurance, and monthly stipend) and Type B (partial - tuition and insurance only). Available for Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD. Rolling deadlines from January to May across participating institutions.
๐ Deadline: January-May (varies by university - check โฆ
Russian Government Scholarship
Russia ยท Government of Russia / Ministry of Education and Science of Russia
Fully funded scholarship by the Russian Government offering thousands of seats annually for international students at federal Russian universities. No IELTS required. Covers tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipend across all major fields.
๐ Deadline: January 15, 2026
Reopens: Varies - confirm on official site
Ready to Start Your Medical Journey?
Get expert guidance from our team and secure your spot at a top university. Free consultation - no obligation.