2027 SA-CERN Excellence Scholarships in South Africa: Fully Funded MSc and PhD Bursaries Worth Up to R200,000 Per Year

Overview

The SA-CERN Excellence Scholarships Programme offers financial support for outstanding students undertaking postgraduate studies starting in the 2027 academic year. Administered by NRF-iThemba LABS under the SA-CERN Programme with backing from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the initiative seeks to develop future researchers studying the fundamental nature of the Universe. The programme supports research within five specific pillars: ALICE, ATLAS, ISOLDE, THEORY, and Technology Transfer, spanning disciplines such as particle physics, nuclear science, artificial intelligence, and advanced computing.

Who can apply

Applicants must be South African citizens who plan to register for full-time master of science or doctor of philosophy studies at a South African university in 2027. Candidates are expected to have a strong academic record, with an ideal benchmark aggregate of 65 percent in their previous degree, and clear potential for future academic and research success. Additionally, applicants must identify an eligible research project within one of the five programme pillars and secure a confirmed SA-CERN member supervisor before applying.

What you get

Successful master's candidates receive annual funding of up to R150,000, while doctoral candidates receive up to R200,000 per year. The bursary provides full-cost-of-study support for the duration of the studies and includes sponsorship for aligned research trips to the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Switzerland.

Requirements

Applicants must submit an up-to-date curriculum vitae, a full academic record, a statement of purpose detailing the proposed research topic and supervisor, a copy of a South African identity document, a copy of the dissertation from the previous level of study, and relevant research publications or reports if applicable. All candidates must also provide three letters of recommendation, which must be combined into a single PDF file for upload.

How to apply

Interested candidates must review available research projects and identify an eligible SA-CERN member supervisor prior to submitting their application. Applications and supporting documents are submitted through the online application form.

Key dates

Applications close on 30 December 2026. The funded studies commence in the 2027 academic year.