South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Bursaries for 2027
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is offering postgraduate students a chance to advance their studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields through its Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. This initiative aims to foster critical skills development within South Africa’s growing space sector. Applications are open to South African citizens who are pursuing or intend to pursue Honours, Masters, or Doctoral degrees.
The SANSA Bursary Programme is designed to support students in STEM disciplines that align with the agency’s focus areas. These include space science, technology, remote sensing, environmental science, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and various engineering fields. By investing in these students, SANSA contributes to building a strong foundation for future innovation and research within the country.
Fields of Study Supported by SANSA
SANSA provides funding for a wide array of postgraduate STEM studies. The bursary covers fields such as Applied Mathematics, Applied Remote Sensing, and Applied Remote Sensing and GIS. Students in disciplines like Botany, Computer and Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, and Ecology and Resource Management are also encouraged to apply.
Further areas of study include Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Energy Studies, and Environmental and Geographical Science. Environmental Science, Environmental and Water Science, Environmental Geology, and Environmental Management are also included. Students focusing on Geographical Information Systems, Geoinformatics, GIS and Remote Sensing, Information Systems, and Information Technology can also benefit. Finally, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Physics, Plant and Environmental Science, Space Science, and Statistical Ecology are among the supported fields.
Value of the SANSA Bursary
The financial support provided by the SANSA bursary varies based on the level of study. Honours students will receive funding up to R150,000 per annum. For Masters students, the bursary amount is R160,000 per annum. Doctoral students will receive the highest level of funding, with an annual value of R170,000. These amounts are intended to help cover study-related expenses and support students in their academic pursuits.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To be considered for the SANSA Bursary Programme, applicants must meet specific requirements. Applicants must be 32 years old or younger. They should be studying or planning to study towards a postgraduate STEM qualification. This includes fields related to science, engineering, mathematics, remote sensing, GIS, environmental science, and space science and technology.
A minimum academic achievement of 65% in the last year of study or examination is required. Applicants must also demonstrate strong academic potential and a clear financial need. A genuine interest in working within the space sector is also a key consideration for the bursary.
Required Documents for Application
Successful applications require a comprehensive set of supporting documents. Applicants must submit a certified copy of their ID document, certified within the last three months and in PDF format. A full university academic record, from the first year of study up to the mid-year 2026 results, must also be provided in PDF format.
An official undergraduate university student account statement or a letter confirming NSFAS funding for undergraduate study fees is necessary. For Masters and Doctoral applicants, a completed SANSA testimonial from an education official, lecturer, or proposed supervisor is mandatory. Masters applicants need to submit a draft proposal of a maximum of two pages, signed and dated. Doctoral applicants must submit a draft proposal of a maximum of four pages, also signed and dated by the applicant and proposed supervisor.
How to Apply for the Bursary
The application process for the SANSA Bursary South Africa 2027 is conducted online. Prospective applicants should visit the SANSA website to access the application form. It is essential to complete the online form accurately and upload all the required supporting documents. Incomplete applications or missing documents may lead to disqualification.
Application Closing Date
The deadline for submitting applications for the SANSA Bursary South Africa 2027 is 30 September 2026. Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well before this date. Ensuring all documents are correctly uploaded and that the application is complete is crucial for consideration.
About the South African National Space Agency (SANSA)
SANSA is the national agency responsible for promoting and supporting the peaceful use of outer space. It also works to advance space science and technology, support space research, and help develop South Africa’s space capabilities. Through its bursary program, SANSA plays a vital role in nurturing highly skilled graduates who can contribute to the nation’s future in science, engineering, and the space industry.
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