Finding reliable funding for undergraduate studies in South Africa is challenging, especially when most well-known bursaries focus on postgraduate students. However, the National Research Foundation (NRF) offers funding opportunities that directly support undergraduate students in science, technology, and engineering. If you are searching for the NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate details, this guide gives you everything you need to secure funding through one of the country’s most respected research organisations.
The NRF is an independent government agency established through the National Research Foundation Act (Act No. 23 of 1998) to support research and human capital development across all fields of science and technology. While best known for postgraduate scholarships, the NRF also funds undergraduates through the NRF-SARAO and NRF iThemba LABS bursary programmes.
This article breaks down every aspect of the NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate students, including eligibility, fields of study, application steps, and deadlines.
NRF Undergraduate Funding Programmes Available for 2026
Unlike many bursary providers that offer a single programme, the NRF funds undergraduate students through two distinct channels. Understanding which one fits your profile is the first step to a successful NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate submission.
NRF-SARAO Undergraduate Bursary
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is a national facility managed by the NRF that oversees all radio astronomy initiatives in South Africa, including the MeerKAT telescope and South Africa’s contribution to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project. As part of the NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate options, the NRF-SARAO bursary develops skilled graduates in radio astronomy and related STEM disciplines, targeting students pursuing BSc degrees in physics, astrophysics, mathematics, computer science, electronic engineering, and data science.
NRF iThemba LABS Bursary
iThemba Laboratory for Accelerator-Based Sciences (iThemba LABS) is the largest facility for particle and nuclear research on the African continent, administered by the NRF. Based in the Western Cape and Gauteng, iThemba LABS offers an NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate students studying electrical engineering (BEng, BTech, or National Diploma), electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and computer science. This bursary covers full tuition fees and is awarded strictly on academic merit.
Eligibility Requirements for the NRF Bursary Application for 2026 Undergraduate
Each NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate programme has specific criteria. You must be a South African citizen enrolled at an accredited public tertiary institution. For iThemba LABS, you must be entering at least your second year with a minimum 60% first-year average. Selection is strictly merit-based.
Critically, the iThemba LABS bursary requires applicants to be entering at least their second year, with a 60% first-year minimum. Selection is strictly merit-based. SARAO bursary criteria typically emphasise strong mathematics and physical sciences performance alongside genuine interest in astronomy or related engineering.
For both programmes, applicants should not hold another major bursary for the same period, though supplementary funding may be permitted. Check the specific terms in the NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding guide before applying.
Fields of Study Funded by the NRF
The NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding is limited to specific STEM and STEM-adjacent disciplines. The exact fields depend on which programme you apply for:
NRF-SARAO Undergraduate Bursary fields:
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
- Computer Science and Data Science
- Electronic Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (where relevant to observatory operations)
NRF iThemba LABS Bursary fields:
- Electrical Engineering (BEng, BTech, or National Diploma)
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Computer Science
These fields align with the NRF’s mandate to build South Africa’s STEM capacity. If your degree falls within these areas, your NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate submission has a strong foundation for success.
What Does the NRF Undergraduate Bursary Cover?
The funding package for each NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate programme varies by facility and donor funding. The iThemba LABS bursary covers full tuition fees. The NRF-SARAO bursary is typically more comprehensive and may include tuition, accommodation or travel allowance, textbooks, and a monthly stipend.
Beyond financial support, NRF bursary holders gain access to world-class research facilities, mentorship from scientists and engineers, and exposure to cutting-edge projects like MeerKAT or iThemba LABS’ particle beam research.
How to Complete Your NRF Bursary Application for 2026 Undergraduate Studies
The NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate process differs depending on which programme you are applying for. Here is a step-by-step breakdown for each:
For the NRF-SARAO Undergraduate Bursary:
- Visit the NRF Connect system: Go to nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za and register for an account or log in. All NRF-SARAO applications are submitted through this online system.
- Download the application guide: Access the NRF-SARAO Undergraduate Application Guide from the NRF website or sarao.ac.za/students/funding. Read it thoroughly before starting.
- Complete your online application: Fill in all required personal, academic, and financial details. Ensure your CV and academic profile on NRF Connect are up to date.
- Upload supporting documents: Attach all certified copies in the specified formats. Incomplete applications are not forwarded by your university’s Designated Authority (DA) to the NRF.
- Submit before the closing date: Application deadlines are typically set between July and September 2025 for 2026 funding. Check the NRF website for the exact date, as it varies each year.
For the NRF iThemba LABS Bursary:
- Download the application form: The iThemba LABS bursary application form is available as a PDF download from the NRF or iThemba LABS website.
- Complete the application form: Fill in all sections accurately, including your personal details, academic history, and chosen field of study.
- Prepare your supporting documents: Gather certified copies of your ID, matric certificate, latest academic transcript, and proof of registration.
- Submit via email: Send your completed form and documents to bursaries@tlabs.ac.za, attention Ms A. Groenewald. Subject line: “NRF iThemba LABS Bursary Application – [Your Full Name]”.
Required Documents
Regardless of which NRF programme you apply for, you need to prepare the following documents for your NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding:
- Certified copy of your South African ID document
- Certified copy of your matric certificate
- Certified copy of your most recent academic transcript or results
- Proof of registration or acceptance at an accredited South African tertiary institution
- A one-page CV including your contact details and academic highlights
- Completed application form (NRF Connect profile for SARAO, or PDF form for iThemba LABS)
For the NRF-SARAO bursary, your NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate submission must also include academic referee details through NRF Connect. Referees receive an automated email requesting their assessment. All certified copies must be recent and legible.
Important Dates for 2026
Timing is critical for any NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding. The NRF-SARAO bursary call typically opens between May and July and closes around August to September 2025. The iThemba LABS deadline is announced separately – check their website regularly. Your university’s Designated Authority (DA) must approve and submit your application before the system closes, so submit to your university well before the NRF’s final deadline.
The NRF Pathway: From Undergraduate to Postgraduate Funding
One of the most valuable aspects of securing an NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate is the career trajectory it opens. The NRF is South Africa’s primary funder of postgraduate research, offering Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral scholarships through the DSTI-NRF programme. Students who receive NRF undergraduate funding and maintain strong performance are well-positioned to transition into postgraduate scholarships with Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS) funding.
FCS covers students with household income of R350,000 or less, students with disabilities, or exceptional achievers. PCS supports students meeting minimum requirements. By starting through an NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate programme, you build a track record that strengthens postgraduate applications.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Standing out in the NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate cycle requires more than meeting the minimum criteria. Aim for an academic average well above 60% – the higher your marks, the more competitive your application becomes, especially for merit-based programmes like iThemba LABS. Choose referees who can provide strong, specific endorsements of your academic abilities and research potential.
Start preparing months before the deadline. Gather and certify all documents early, ensure your NRF Connect profile is complete, and review your CV for errors. For SARAO applicants, mention relevant projects or extracurricular activities. Submit to your university’s DA at least two weeks before the NRF deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the NRF fund first-year undergraduate students?
It depends on the programme. The NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate through NRF-SARAO may accept first-year applicants depending on the call criteria. However, iThemba LABS specifically requires second year or beyond with a minimum 60% first-year average. Check the specific call documents.
Can I apply for both NRF undergraduate programmes at the same time?
If your field of study qualifies for both programmes, you may be able to submit an NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding through both channels, but you cannot hold two NRF bursaries simultaneously. If awarded one, you must declare it when applying for the other. Check the specific terms for each programme carefully.
What is the NRF Connect system?
NRF Connect is the online system used for all NRF scholarship and bursary submissions, including undergraduate and postgraduate applications. Access it at nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za. Create a profile, complete your CV and academic details, and submit your application through this system for SARAO and other NRF-managed bursaries.
What happens if my referee does not respond?
For NRF-SARAO applications, referee responses are a mandatory requirement. If your nominated referee does not respond by the closing date, the system may not allow your university to submit your application. Nominate reliable referees and follow up with them well before the deadline.
Is the NRF bursary renewable?
NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate awards are generally for one academic year. Renewal depends on maintaining the required average and meeting programme conditions. Students typically reapply or submit a progress report for continued funding.
Can I hold an NRF bursary and NSFAS funding at the same time?
NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate recipients on Full Cost of Study funding generally cannot hold another major bursary simultaneously. Supplementary or top-up funding may be permitted. Declare all other funding sources in your application to avoid disqualification.
Who do I contact for NRF bursary queries?
For iThemba LABS queries, email bursaries@tlabs.ac.za or call 021 843 1000. For SARAO-related NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate queries, email mjodwana@sarao.ac.za (Honours) or amashemola@sarao.ac.za (general). You can also contact your university’s Research or Postgraduate office.
Final Thoughts
The NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate process offers South African STEM students a genuine pathway to funded education. Whether through NRF-SARAO or NRF iThemba LABS, these opportunities connect you to world-class research infrastructure and a career network that extends far beyond graduation.
If your field of study aligns with the NRF’s priority areas, start preparing your NRF bursary application for 2026 undergraduate funding now. Download the relevant guides, gather your documents, and submit well before the deadline. NRF funding is competitive, but students who prepare thoroughly give themselves the best chance of success.