Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursary South Africa

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF), a longstanding non-governmental organisation in South Africa, is offering its prestigious bursaries for the 2026 academic year. Focused on advancing research in Medical Virology, this bursary is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring postgraduate students committed to making a difference in medical science.

Established in the late 1940s, the PRF has played a vital role in supporting scientific advancement through bursaries, grants, and fellowships. Over the years, it has disbursed more than R144 million in research funding, including over R44 million towards bursary grants alone. The Foundation is governed by a respected panel comprising senior virologists, academic heads, and professionals from both industrial and business sectors.

Fields of Study Supported

The PRF Bursary is open to students pursuing:

• BSc (Hons) in Virology
• MSc in Virology
• PhD in Virology

The bursary strictly supports postgraduate research focused on Virology and does not accommodate studies outside this area.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident (preference will be given to these applicants)
• Be registered or planning to register for a BSc Honours, MSc, or PhD focused on Virology
• Have achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in their most recent academic results
• Commit to continuing their approved research project unless otherwise permitted by PRF

Applicants who do not meet these requirements will not be considered.

What the Bursary Covers

The PRF Bursary provides financial support for the following durations:

• Up to 2 years for MSc students
• Up to 3 years for PhD students (in exceptional cases, extensions may be granted)

Scholars are expected to remain committed to their original research topic, as the PRF must approve any proposed changes.

Application Process

Applications involve a three-step process:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

Separate application forms are required for each academic level:

• 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)

Step 2: Submit Required Documentation

For New Applicants:

• CV (maximum 2 pages) with list of publications if any
• Full academic record
• Proof of registration for your current degree
• Completed Grants Application Signatory Form (PDF format)
• Proof of BSc completion (for MSc applicants)
• Proof of MSc completion (for PhD applicants)
• Any supporting materials, such as charts or graph,s must be included in a PDF annex

For Renewal Applicants:

• MSc: Completed Grants Application Signatory Form
• PhD: Supervisor Progress Report
• Additional materials (charts or data) submitted in PDF format

Step 3: Email the Final Bursary Form

Download, complete, and email the PRF Final Bursary Form

• Use the subject line: PRF Bursary Application – BSc (Hons) / MSc / PhD (whichever applies)

Incomplete applications or those missing documentation may be disqualified.

Timeline & Deadlines

There are two closing dates for applications:

• 15 September 2025
• 28 February 2026

Submissions after these dates will not be considered, so applicants are urged to submit early.

Final Thoughts

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursary is a highly respected funding opportunity for postgraduate students dedicated to the field of Virology. With robust financial and academic support, this bursary equips scholars to contribute to critical medical research in South Africa. If you are pursuing Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral studies in Virology and meet the eligibility criteria, this bursary can significantly advance your academic and professional path.