University of Cape Town National Research Foundation 2025

The National Research Foundation supports financially and academically deserving students in pursuing postgraduate studies aligned with South Africa’s national development and research priorities.

Eligibility Criteria for National Research Foundation:

Applicants must:

• Apply for full-time Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
• Meet the minimum academic requirement of 65% average in the previous qualification.
• Upload a referee report using the NRF template, completed by a supervisor or Head of Department.
• If a supervisor is not yet appointed (Master’s only), submit a support letter from the HoD confirming future supervision and programme start by April.

Value of National Research Foundation:

Successful applicants will be funded either at Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS). The FCS funding will be awarded to South African citizens and Permanent Residents only, who are either financially needy (i.e., those whose combined household family income is less than or equal to R350,000 per annum), living with a disability, or exceptional academic achievers. 

Application Process:

• Apply online.
• Complete all sections and select University of Cape Town (UCT).
• Upload required documents:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Referee letter (NRF template)
  • HoD letter (if no supervisor assigned – Master’s only)
  • Proof of financial need/disability (if applicable)
• Submit by UCT’s internal deadline for review.