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NIHSS Postgraduate Bursary (Humanities & Social Sciences)

National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS)

NIHSS funds postgraduate research in humanities, social sciences, law, and education. One of the few dedicated postgraduate bursaries for humanities students in South Africa.

What's covered

💵Living Allowance🎓Tuition

Research stipend and tuition support

Applications closedApply on Official Website

Eligibility at a Glance

Fields of Study

📖 Humanities 🤝 Social Work 🧠 Psychology 📉 Economics ⚖️ Law 📚 Education

Study Level

Master'sPhDPostgraduate

Available In

All Provinces (Nationwide)

Quick Facts

Workback requiredNo

Financial need requiredNo

NSFAS compatibleYes

Disability friendlyYes

SA citizenship requiredYes

Min academic average65%

About This Bursary

NIHSS Postgraduate Bursary

The National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) provides postgraduate research funding in fields that are often neglected by corporate bursaries.

This is one of the few dedicated postgraduate bursaries for:

Humanities (history, philosophy, languages, African studies)

Social sciences (sociology, anthropology, political science)

Psychology and counselling

Law and legal studies

Education research

NIHSS bursaries support masters and doctoral research that contributes to South Africa's knowledge economy.

Eligibility Requirements

South African citizen
Master's or doctoral student in humanities or social sciences
Strong academic record (65%+)
Approved research proposal
Registered at an accredited South African university

How to Apply

1Visit nihss.ac.za
2Check current funding calls
3Apply with research proposal and supervisor letter

Required Documents

SA ID
Academic transcripts
Research proposal
Supervisor letter
CV

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a postgraduate bursary for humanities students in South Africa?

Yes. The NIHSS specifically funds postgraduate research in humanities, social sciences, law, and education — fields where other postgraduate funding is limited.

Ready to Apply?

Visit the official website for the most up-to-date application information and deadlines.

Apply on National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) Website

All bursary applications are free. Never pay to apply.

Bursary Summary

ProviderNational Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS)

ValueR80,000–R200,000/year

DeadlineClosed

Min average65%

WorkbackNone

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