Are you aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of the Free State (UFS) in 2027? Exciting news awaits! Applications for a variety of postgraduate tuition fee bursaries are now open, offering crucial financial support for Honours, Master's, and PhD students. These opportunities include bursaries directly from UFS, as well as national funding administered through the university, such as the prestigious DSI-NRF scholarships. Don't miss this valuable chance to secure funding for your academic journey.
Understanding UFS Postgraduate Funding Options
The University of the Free State (UFS) provides several avenues for postgraduate students to secure financial assistance. Applications for the 2027 academic year officially opened on April 1, 2026, making it the ideal time to explore your options. Funding opportunities primarily target Honours, Research Master's, and Research PhD students. Beyond UFS-specific bursaries, the university also administers external funding, most notably scholarships from the National Research Foundation (NRF), often in partnership with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI).
The Centre for Graduate Support (CGS) at UFS is your go-to resource for information on both national and international bursary and scholarship opportunities. They can guide you through the application processes and help you find the best fit for your studies.
DSI-NRF Postgraduate Funding: Eligibility and Types
The DSI-NRF postgraduate funding is a significant opportunity for many students. A key academic requirement for most DSI-NRF funding is achieving at least a 65% average in your previous degree. There are also age criteria for 80% of this funding: by December 31 of the application year, applicants must be 28 or younger for Honours, 30 or younger for Master's, and 32 or younger for Doctoral studies. However, a 'No Age Restriction' category accounts for the remaining 20% of funding.
The funding is typically offered as either Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS). FCS is available for South African citizens and Permanent Residents with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year, or for those who are disabled or exceptional academic achievers. PCS is allocated to a small percentage of international students (including SA citizens and PRs) who meet the minimum criteria but do not qualify for FCS. These NRF scholarships are particularly valuable for Master's and Doctoral candidates across Science, Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences, and Humanities.
Specialised Bursary Opportunities at UFS for 2027
Beyond general NRF funding, UFS hosts specific, fully funded bursary programmes. For instance, the DSI-NRF Research Chair in City and Regional Economies is offering two fully funded PhD bursaries and one Master's bursary for 2027. Eligibility for this chair requires a Master's degree in a relevant field obtained within the last five years, with a minimum average grade of 70%. This funding covers tuition, living expenses, and study costs.
Another notable opportunity is the Master of Sustainable Agriculture programme, funded by RUFORUM and the Mastercard Foundation, offering fully funded scholarships for 2027. This programme seeks individuals passionate about agriculture and rural development, with a strong commitment to transforming African food systems. Women, individuals with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Process and Key Dates for 2027 Funding
Applying for these bursaries involves different processes depending on the funding type. For UFS-specific tuition fee bursaries, it is essential to contact your respective faculty directly for application details and deadlines. For DSI-NRF postgraduate funding, applications must be submitted online via the NRF Connect System; manual applications are not accepted.
The general application window for UFS 2027 postgraduate studies, including bursaries, opened on April 1, 2026. Specific deadlines vary. For example, the DSI-NRF Research Chair in City and Regional Economies bursary closes on May 31, 2026. General NRF Honours scholarships are expected to open in July 2026 for the 2027 cycle. Always check the NRF Connect System or the NRF website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on opening and closing dates for Master's and Doctoral funding.
Securing postgraduate funding is a crucial step towards achieving your academic goals at the University of the Free State. With applications for 2027 now open, it's time to explore the various bursary options, including UFS-specific funding and the comprehensive DSI-NRF scholarships. Remember to check the specific eligibility criteria, gather all necessary documentation, and adhere strictly to the application deadlines. Contacting your faculty or the Centre for Graduate Support early can provide valuable guidance. Don't let financial constraints hinder your postgraduate aspirations – start your application journey today!
