SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027: Up to R170,000 Per Year

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is offering postgraduate bursaries for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity supports students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) qualifications. Eligible applicants can receive up to R170,000 per year to fund their studies.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Up to R170,000 per annum
Minimum Qualification: Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral studies in STEM fields

About the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme

The SANSA Bursary Programme aims to develop postgraduate skills that are important for South Africa’s science, engineering, and space sectors. It supports students undertaking Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees. The bursary is designed for individuals who show academic promise, have a financial need, and are interested in working in the space industry.

This programme focuses on fields within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It provides financial assistance to help students complete their advanced studies and contribute to scientific research and development in South Africa.

About SANSA

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a government agency responsible for space science and technology in South Africa. SANSA plays a key role in advancing space research, developing space capabilities, and promoting the use of space science for national development. The agency operates in various areas, including space weather, Earth observation, and space engineering.

Fields of Study Covered

SANSA offers bursaries for a wide range of postgraduate STEM qualifications. These include, but are not limited to:

• Applied Mathematics
• Applied Remote Sensing and GIS
• Computer and Electronic Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Geographical Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Mathematics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Space Science

The bursary may cover other STEM fields if the proposed postgraduate qualification aligns with SANSA’s research interests.

SANSA Bursary Value for 2027

The value of the bursary awarded depends on the level of study:

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

This funding aims to cover study-related expenses and support students throughout their postgraduate journey.

Eligibility Requirements

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

• Be 32 years old or younger.
• Be studying or planning to study for a postgraduate STEM qualification.
• Have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in their most recent academic year.
• Show strong academic potential.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Express an interest in working within the space sector.

Applicants are advised to confirm they meet all requirements before submitting their application.

Documents Required

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following documents with their online application:

• Certified ID document (certified within the last three months, in PDF format).
• Complete university academic record from the first year of study, including 2026 mid-year or final-year results (in PDF format).
• Official undergraduate university student account statement or a letter confirming NSFAS funding for undergraduate study fees.

Master’s and Doctoral applicants must also submit:

• A completed SANSA testimonial from an education official, such as a lecturer or proposed supervisor.

Master’s applicants must submit:

• A draft research proposal (no more than 2 pages), signed and dated by the applicant and proposed supervisor.

Doctoral applicants must submit:

• A draft research proposal (no more than 4 pages), signed and dated by the applicant and proposed supervisor.

Applications missing any compulsory documents may not be considered.

How to Apply

Applications for the SANSA Bursary 2027 must be submitted online.

Click here to apply for the SANSA Bursary 2027

Applicants need to complete the online application form and upload all required supporting documents. Ensure all information is accurate and submitted before the closing date of 30 September 2026.

Contact SANSA

For any questions about the bursary programme, you can contact SANSA via email:

Email: [email protected]

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must meet all the minimum eligibility requirements.
• Ensure all submitted documents are clear and certified where required.

Closing Date

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

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