NRF Connect system is now open for the submission of the 2025 Progress Reports

This serves to inform you that the NRF Connect system is now open for the submission of the 2025 Progress Reports (PRs). Motivations for the Carry Forward of unspent funds should be submitted in the financials section of the Progress Report.

The closing dates for submission of PRs are as follows:

1. Honours Scholarship-holders

Honours students are not required to submit a Progress Report. They only need to notify the university’s postgraduate office upon completion of their studies and submit proof (academic transcript or graduation certificate).

2. Progress Reports for Grantholders/Freestanding Students/Postdoctoral Fellows

To complete Progress Reports on the NRF Connect System, please follow the steps below:

Step 1:

Log in to the NRF Connect System at https://nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za using your ORCID ID and password.

NB: Before you attempt to complete your Progress Report, please ensure that your CV is updated.

Step 2:

• Go to –My Applications 
• Select –Applications. 
• Under the list of applications, you will see the category(ies) in which you have active applications.
• Click the plus (+) icon next to the category that has “PR Available” displayed
• You will see your application reference number, and next to it, you will find the option to “Create Progress Report“.
• Click Create progress report.
• You will be asked to confirm whether you want to create a new progress report for your application. Click Yes.
• Complete all compulsory and, where applicable, non-compulsory sections of the Progress Report (PR) form. Please note that all compulsory fields (*) must be completed before the system will allow you to proceed to the next step.
• Click on the Submit button (Note: Once the Report is submitted, it cannot be edited)

NB: You must click the SUBMIT button for your Progress Report to be sent to the institution.

Please note:

• PRs received after the closing date will not be considered. The system will automatically block you from submitting after the closing date.
• Please refer to the Progress Report Guide for the relevant criteria.
• Grantholders must submit all required PRs for 2025 grants to:
  • Comply with the signed Conditions of Grant; and
  • Enable the NRF to release 2026 funding, if applicable.

3. Centres of Excellence Progress Reports

Please note that the progress reports for COEs will be opened at a later stage.

4. Queries relating to the submission of Progress Reports

NB: All Progress Report completion or submission queries must be channelled through the institutional research office first

• For funding-related queries, please consult the Progress Report Guides for the relevant contact information.

NB: The guides are accessible on the NRF Connect home page under  ‘Instructions’.

• For system-related queries, please contact supportdesk@nrf.ac.za or 012 4814202.

NB: Dedicated support sessions will be scheduled from the end of January 2026 to assist grant holders with any queries. The schedule will be communicated to institutions closer to the time.