About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The CATSA student travel funding is structured across different categories to support various academic engagement opportunities.
These include:
International Catalysis Conferences
Supports students presenting at recognized global conferences
Covers expenses such as registration, travel, and subsistence
Annual CATSA Conference
Supports students presenting at the national CATSA meeting
Focuses on local peer review and academic feedback
Covers travel expenses only, excluding accommodation and subsistence
Summer School Grant
Supports attendance at EFCATS Summer School programmes or equivalent catalysis training courses
Covers registration, travel, and subsistence costs
These categories ensure that students at different stages of their academic journey can benefit from tailored support for scientific development.
Eligibility and Target Applicants
The grant is open to postgraduate students actively engaged in catalysis research.
Eligible applicants include:
MSc students conducting research in catalysis
PhD students specializing in catalysis or related fields
Students enrolled at South African higher education institutions (HEIs)
Researchers preparing to present at recognized international conferences or training programmes
Applicants must demonstrate active involvement in catalysis-related research and provide evidence of acceptance or participation in a relevant academic event.
Primary & Secondary Schooling (K-12)
Application Requirements
Students applying for the CATSA International Student Travel Grant must submit a complete application package for consideration.
Required documents include:
Conference details and peer-review information
Submitted abstract or full research paper
Official acceptance letter from the conference organizers
Supervisor’s confirmation and supporting documentation
Any additional materials required by CATSA
Incomplete applications or missing documentation may affect eligibility for consideration.
Travel & Transportation
Application Deadlines
CATSA has announced two application rounds for the 2026 cycle.
Important deadlines include:
First round closing date: 30 June 2026
Second round closing date: 30 September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit early to ensure adequate processing time and consideration before conference participation dates.
Purpose and Impact of the Grant
The CATSA travel grant plays a key role in strengthening South Africa’s presence in the global catalysis research community. By enabling students to attend and present at international conferences, the programme helps to showcase local scientific expertise and fosters global academic collaboration.
The initiative also enhances student development by:
Science
Improving scientific communication skills
Encouraging peer review and constructive academic critique
Building international research networks
Supporting career advancement in academia and industry
Increasing visibility of South African catalysis research
Through these outcomes, CATSA contributes to building a stronger and more competitive research ecosystem.
Supporting Young Researchers in Catalysis
CATSA emphasizes the importance of investing in early-career researchers as a way to sustain innovation in the chemical sciences. By supporting MSc and PhD students, the organization helps bridge the gap between academic research and global scientific engagement.
The travel grant ensures that financial constraints do not limit access to international academic platforms, allowing talented students to share their findings and contribute to global advancements in catalysis research.
Conclusion
The CATSA International Student Grant 2026 represents a significant opportunity for postgraduate students in catalysis research to gain international exposure and present their work on respected platforms. With funding support available for conferences, training schools, and academic presentations, the programme continues to play a vital role in advancing scientific excellence in South Africa.
Students are encouraged to prepare complete applications and submit before the respective deadlines to maximize their chances of selection.
How to apply