SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027: Study Science & Engineering

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is offering postgraduate bursaries for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity is for South African students pursuing Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The bursary aims to develop scarce skills needed for space science, earth observation, and national development.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: Recognised South African universities
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Up to R170 000 per year
Minimum Qualification: Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degree

About the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027

The SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme supports students who want to further their studies in fields critical to South Africa’s scientific and technological advancement. This programme is designed to build a pipeline of highly qualified graduates in science and engineering. It focuses on developing the expertise needed for space science, earth observation, and engineering.

The bursary is intended for students with a strong academic record who are passionate about contributing to South Africa’s development through STEM. SANSA plays a key role in space science and technology, and this bursary helps ensure a skilled workforce for its future projects and national mandates.

About SANSA

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is the national body responsible for space-related activities in South Africa. Its mandate includes promoting the use of space science and technology for the benefit of the country. SANSA’s work spans Earth observation, space engineering, space science research, and data services.

Through initiatives like this bursary programme, SANSA invests in developing the country’s scientific and technical talent. This helps to address national needs and strengthen South Africa’s position in the global space community.

Available Postgraduate Opportunities

SANSA offers bursaries for postgraduate studies across various STEM disciplines. These include opportunities in:

• Earth Observation
• Space Engineering
• Space Science

Specific fields of study are detailed below, but related qualifications aligned with SANSA’s research areas may also be considered.

What the SANSA Bursary Offers

Successful applicants can expect financial support for their postgraduate studies. The bursary aims to cover various study-related costs. Depending on the approved conditions, funding may contribute towards:

• Tuition fees
• Research costs
• Academic materials
• Accommodation
• Living expenses
• Research travel
• Other approved postgraduate study expenses

The exact allocation of funds will be communicated to recipients. The annual funding amounts are:

• Honours: R150 000 per year
• Master’s: R160 000 per year
• Doctoral: R170 000 per year

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary programme supports studies at recognised South African universities. The specific duration of the bursary will depend on the postgraduate programme the student is enrolled in. Applicants must meet the admission requirements of their chosen university and postgraduate course.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be applying for an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral qualification.
• Study in an eligible science, engineering, or technology discipline.
• Have an academic average of at least 65% in their most recent year of study or latest examination results.
• Submit a complete official academic record from the first year of study.
• Provide all compulsory supporting documents.
• Ensure uploaded files are not encrypted or password-protected.
• Meet the admission requirements of the selected university and postgraduate programme.

Earth Observation Fields of Study

SANSA may consider postgraduate applications in the following Earth Observation-related fields:

• Applied Remote Sensing
• Applied Remote Sensing and GIS
• Botany
• Ecology and Resource Management
• Environmental Science
• Environmental and Geographical Science
• Environmental and Water Science
• Environmental Geology
• Environmental Management
• Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing
• Geographical and Environmental Science
• Geographical Information Systems
• Geographical Science
• Geography with Remote Sensing and GIS
• Geography and Environmental Management
• Geography and Environmental Science
• Geoinformatics
• GIS and Remote Sensing
• Information Systems and Remote Sensing
• Plant and Environmental Science
• Statistical Ecology

Space Engineering Fields of Study

Eligible engineering and technology qualifications may include:

• Computer and Electronic Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Information Technology
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Information Systems

Applicants should explain how their research relates to space engineering, technology development, or SANSA’s work.

Space Science Fields of Study

SANSA may also consider students pursuing postgraduate studies in:

• Applied Mathematics
• Energy Studies
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Space Science
• Information Systems
• Information Technology

Related scientific disciplines may be considered if their research aligns with SANSA’s programmes.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong academic performance and a clear research focus. Key qualities that would be beneficial include:

• A strong academic record.
• A clear research proposal relevant to SANSA’s work.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to conduct independent research.
• Willingness to learn and contribute to scientific advancement.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for science and engineering graduates who are eager to pursue advanced studies and contribute to South Africa’s space science and technology sector. If you have a strong academic background, a passion for research, and an interest in fields like Earth observation or space engineering, this opportunity is for you. It’s suited for individuals aiming to make a significant contribution to national development through specialized STEM knowledge.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• A full official university academic record from the first year of study.
• Final-year or mid-year 2026 academic results.
• An official undergraduate student account statement or NSFAS funding letter.
• A certified copy of the applicant’s identity document (certified within three months of application).
• For Master’s applicants: A testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor and a draft research proposal (max 2 pages).
• For Doctoral applicants: A testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor and a draft doctoral research proposal (max 4 pages).
• Any additional documents requested through the online application system.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official SANSA bursary platform.

Click here to apply for SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027

Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official SANSA bursary page.
2. Review the programme requirements carefully.
3. Select the appropriate postgraduate study level.
4. Complete the online application form accurately.
5. Upload all required documents, ensuring they are not password-protected.
6. Submit your application before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
• Ensure all uploaded documents are clear, readable, and not encrypted.
• Master’s and Doctoral proposals must be signed and dated by both the applicant and the proposed supervisor.
• Applications with an academic average below 65% will not be considered.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026. It is advisable to submit your application well in advance of this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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