If you’re a master’s or PhD student in Kenya looking for funding to support your research, the National Research Fund (NRF) has opened applications for its 2025/2026 Postgraduate Research Grants — and this could be a major opportunity.
Who can apply?
The grant is open to Kenyan postgraduate students enrolled in public or private universities in Kenya. Both master’s and doctoral candidates are eligible, as long as the research is part of their degree programme and addresses national development priorities.
How much funding is available?
NRF will fund:PhD research projects with up to Sh2 million for a maximum of three yearsMaster’s research projects with up to Sh500,000 for one yearThe funding covers research activities only, such as data collection, fieldwork and analysis — not tuition fees or personal expenses.
What kind of research is supported?
The grants focus on projects that strengthen science, technology and innovation in Kenya. NRF is especially interested in research that contributes to innovation, evidence-based policymaking and inclusive development, in line with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
How do you apply?
Applicants must:Read the full guidelines on the NRF website: www.nrf.go.keSubmit their application strictly online through the NRF Grants Management System at https://grantsportal.nrf.go.keApplications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The deadline for submission is March 6, 2026, at 11:59 pm (EAT).
Important deadline
NRF has noted that only successful applicants will be contacted after the review process.For postgraduate students seeking research funding, this call offers a rare chance to advance their academic work while contributing to Kenya’s development priorities.
