Claude Leon Foundation Postgraduate Bursary
The Claude Leon Foundation funds postgraduate research in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering and medical sciences at South African universities - including a flagship Honours bursary and a postdoctoral fellowship programme.
Eligible Fields of Study
Claude Leon Foundation supports students in the following disciplines
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ South African citizen or permanent resident (for most programmes)
- ✓ Strong academic record in a relevant science, mathematics, engineering or medical science discipline
- ✓ Honours applicants: completed a strong undergraduate degree and accepted into Honours at a South African university
- ✓ Master's/PhD applicants: completed Honours or Master's with strong results
- ✓ Postdoctoral applicants: completed PhD within the last 5 years
- ✓ Research proposal aligned with the Foundation's funding priorities
What's Included
- ✓ Honours bursary: full tuition contribution and study allowance
- ✓ Master's / PhD funding: research and study costs
- ✓ Postdoctoral fellowships: salary, research support and conference attendance
- ✓ Recognition as a Claude Leon Foundation scholar
- ✓ Mentorship and networking within the South African science community
How to Apply
Steps to complete your Claude Leon Foundation bursary application
- 1
Visit leonfoundation.co.za to review the current programmes (Honours, Master's/PhD, or Postdoctoral)
- 2
Confirm your discipline is in the funded areas
- 3
Complete the application form for your programme level
- 4
Submit through your university's research office or directly as required
- 5
Provide your research proposal, transcripts and academic references
- 6
Wait for institutional and Foundation review
Required Documents
- 📄 Certified ID copy
- 📄 Full academic transcripts
- 📄 Degree certificates
- 📄 Research proposal (Master's, PhD and postdoctoral)
- 📄 Two academic references
- 📄 CV / academic CV
- 📄 Motivational letter
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which disciplines does the Claude Leon Foundation fund?
- Research in natural sciences, mathematics, engineering and medical sciences - including chemistry, physics, biology, computer science and related applied disciplines.
- What programmes does the Claude Leon Foundation run?
- A flagship Honours bursary, Master's and PhD research funding, and Postdoctoral Fellowships for researchers within 5 years of completing their PhD.
- How do I apply for a Claude Leon postdoctoral fellowship?
- Applications are typically channelled through a South African host university's research office, with the Foundation reviewing applications submitted by institutions on behalf of candidates.
- What does the Claude Leon Honours bursary cover?
- A tuition contribution and study allowance for one year of Honours-level study in an eligible science, mathematics or engineering discipline at a South African university.
Ready to apply?
Applications close on 30 September 2026
Apply on Claude Leon Foundation's official siteInformation verified 2026-05-14. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.
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