The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) invites eligible students to apply for its Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports postgraduate research in Virology, contributing to South Africa’s capacity in infectious disease research and biomedical innovation.
Bursary Application Closing Dates: 15 September 2025 and 28 February 2026
Bursary Location: South Africa (studies at recognised institutions)
Fields of study funded
PRF bursaries are awarded for postgraduate research in Virology at the following levels:
- BSc (Hons)
- MSc
- PhD
The bursary is research-focused and intended for students committed to advancing virology-related knowledge and outcomes.
Bursary coverage and duration
The duration of funding depends on the qualification level:
- MSc: up to 2 years of support
- PhD: up to 3 years of support (unless exceptional circumstances apply)
Note: Scholars may not change their research project unless approval is granted by the PRF.
Eligibility requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria:
- Preference will be given to South African citizens or permanent residents
- Registered for a postgraduate degree (BSc Hons, MSc, or PhD) with research in Virology
- Minimum overall average of 60% in the most recent studies
Applications that do not meet all requirements may not be considered.
How to apply
Step 1: Complete the online application
Apply via the appropriate online form:
- PRF Bursary Application: BSc (Hons)
- PRF Bursary Application: MSc (New applications)
- PRF Bursary Application: MSc (Renewal)
- PRF Bursary Application: PhD (New applications)
- PRF Bursary Application: PhD (Renewal)
When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter: www.zabursaries.co.za
Step 2: Upload supporting documents
New applicants must upload clear copies of:
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages, include publications if any)
- Academic record
- Proof of degree registration
- Completed Grants Application Signatory Form (.pdf)
- MSc applicants: Proof of BSc completion
- PhD applicants: Proof of MSc completion
- Any additional supporting information (graphs must be submitted as a PDF annex)
Renewal applicants must upload:
- MSc: Completed Grants Application Signatory Form (.pdf)
- PhD: Supervisor Progress Report
- Any additional supporting information (graphs as a PDF annex)
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Step 3: Submit the final bursary form by email
Download and complete the PRF Final Bursary Form, then email it to:
prf@nicd.ac.za
- PRF Bursary Application: BSc (Hons)
- PRF Bursary Application: MSc (NEW applications)
- PRF Bursary Application: MSc (RENEWAL)
- PRF Bursary Application: PhD (NEW applications)
- PRF Bursary Application: PhD (RENEWAL)
RENEWAL:
- MSc applicants: completed Grants Application Signatory Form (.pdf)
- PhD applicants: Supervisor Progress Report
- Any other additional information to support your application (graphs must be submitted in a PDF doc as an annex)
Step 3: download and complete the PRF Final Bursary Form and submit it via email to: prf@nicd.ac.za
(Insert the words “PRF Bursary Application”, followed by “BSc (Hons)” or “MSc” or “PhD” in the email subject line).
Important dates
- Closing dates: 15 September 2025 and 28 February 2026
- Late applications will not be accepted. Apply before the relevant closing date to ensure consideration.