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 at recognised South African universities. 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 in relevant STEM fields

About the SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries

The SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme supports students who want to further their studies in science and engineering. This programme is designed to build a strong base of highly skilled graduates who can contribute to South Africa’s needs in space science, technology, and national development. SANSA focuses on developing scarce skills essential for fields like earth observation and engineering.

The bursaries are available for Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral qualifications. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record and a clear intention to pursue research relevant to SANSA’s work. This initiative plays a key role in advancing scientific and technological capabilities within the country.

About the South African National Space Agency (SANSA)

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is the national body responsible for promoting and supporting the use of space science and technology in South Africa. Its activities cover a wide range of areas, including Earth observation, space engineering, space science, and research. SANSA also provides data services and works to develop scientific and technical skills.

Through programmes like this bursary, SANSA invests in students who can contribute to the future growth of South Africa’s space, science, engineering, and technology sectors. The agency plays a vital role in national development by advancing knowledge and applying space-based solutions.

Available Postgraduate Opportunities

SANSA offers bursaries across various science, engineering, and technology fields. These include, but are not limited to, the following areas:

• Earth Observation: Applied Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Botany, Ecology, and Resource Management.
• Space Engineering: Computer and Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Information Technology, and Mechatronics.
• Space Science: Applied Mathematics, Physics, Space Science, and Information Systems.

Related qualifications that align with SANSA’s research areas may also be considered.

What the SANSA Bursary Offers

Successful applicants will receive financial support to pursue their postgraduate studies. The bursary aims to cover various study-related costs, helping students focus on their academic and research goals.

The bursary funding can contribute towards:

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

The exact allocation of funds will be communicated to recipients based on SANSA’s bursary conditions and available funding.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursaries are for postgraduate studies at recognised South African universities. The specific duration of the programme depends on the level of study (Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral). The location of study will be at the university chosen by the applicant, provided it meets SANSA’s criteria.

Minimum Requirements

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

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be applying for an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral qualification.
• Be studying 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.
• Meet the admission requirements of the selected university and postgraduate programme.

Applications from students with an average below 65% will not be considered.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, certain skills and qualities are beneficial for postgraduate study and research:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to conduct independent research.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new scientific concepts.
• Attention to detail in research and data analysis.
• Commitment to academic excellence.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for science and engineering graduates who are passionate about advancing their knowledge and contributing to South Africa’s space and technology sectors. If you have a strong academic background and wish to pursue postgraduate studies in fields like Earth Observation, Space Engineering, or Space Science, this opportunity is for you.

It is suitable for individuals who are motivated to conduct research that aligns with SANSA’s mission and who can meet the academic and documentation requirements.

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 an official NSFAS funding letter.
• A certified copy of the applicant’s South African 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. Carefully review all programme requirements.
3. Complete the online application form accurately.
4. Upload all required documents, ensuring they are clear and not password-protected.
5. Submit your application before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Applications with missing compulsory documents may be disqualified.
• Ensure your identity document is certified within the last three months.
• Research proposals for Master’s and Doctoral applications must be signed and dated by both the applicant and the proposed supervisor.
• Verify that all uploaded files can be opened before submitting.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026. Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well in advance of this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027?
South African citizens pursuing Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields at South African universities can apply.

What is the closing date for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027?
The application closing date is 30 September 2026.

Does the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary 2027 offer financial support?
Yes, successful applicants may receive annual funding of up to R170,000 per year, depending on the study level, to cover study-related costs.

What documents are needed to apply?
Required documents include an official academic record, latest results, ID copy, proof of undergraduate funding, and a research proposal and testimonial if applying for Master’s or Doctoral studies.

Can I apply with an academic average below 65%?
No, applicants must have an academic average of at least 65% in their most recent year of study to be considered.

How do I apply for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries?
Applications must be submitted online through the official SANSA bursary platform by the closing date.