SANSA Bursary Programme 2027: Fund Your Postgraduate STEM Studies

South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Bursary Programme 2027

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is offering a valuable opportunity for postgraduate students to advance their studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The SANSA Bursary Programme for 2027 aims to support students pursuing Honours, Masters, or Doctoral degrees, with a particular focus on areas related to space science, technology, remote sensing, environmental science, GIS, and engineering. This initiative is crucial for developing the specialized skills needed within South Africa’s growing space sector.

Fields of Study Supported

SANSA provides funding for a wide array of postgraduate STEM disciplines. These include, but are not limited to, Applied Mathematics, Applied Remote Sensing, Applied Remote Sensing and GIS, Botany, Computer and Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Ecology and Resource Management, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Energy Studies, Environmental and Geographical Science, Environmental Science, Environmental and Water Science, Environmental Geology, Environmental Management, Geographical Information Systems, Geography and Environmental Management, Geoinformatics, GIS and Remote Sensing, Information Systems, Information Technology, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Physics, Plant and Environmental Science, Space Science, and Statistical Ecology.

Value of the Bursary

The financial support provided by the SANSA Bursary Programme varies based on the level of study. Honours students can receive up to R150,000 per annum. Masters students are eligible for funding up to R160,000 per annum. Doctoral students can receive the highest level of support, with funding available up to R170,000 per annum. These amounts are intended to significantly contribute to the costs associated with postgraduate research and study.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the SANSA Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several key criteria. Firstly, candidates must be 32 years old or younger. They should be currently studying or planning to study towards a postgraduate STEM qualification, with a strong interest in fields relevant to South Africa’s space sector. A minimum academic achievement of 65% in their last year of study or examination is required. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate both strong academic potential and a clear financial need. A genuine interest in contributing to the space sector is also a key consideration.

Necessary Documentation for Application

Prospective applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents with their online application. This includes a certified copy of their ID document, which must be certified within the last three months and submitted as a PDF. A complete university academic record, from the first year through to mid-year 2026 results or final year results, is also required in PDF format. Applicants must provide an official undergraduate university student account statement or a letter confirming NSFAS funding for undergraduate study fees.

For Masters and Doctoral applicants, additional documents are necessary. A completed SANSA testimonial, signed by an education official, lecturer, or proposed supervisor, is mandatory. Masters applicants need to submit a draft proposal, no longer than two pages, signed and dated by both the applicant and their proposed supervisor. Doctoral applicants must submit a draft proposal of up to four pages, also signed and dated by the applicant and their proposed supervisor.

Application Process

The application for the SANSA Bursary Programme is conducted online. Interested students can apply through the official SANSA website. It is essential to complete the online application form accurately and upload all the required supporting documents. Incomplete applications or missing documents may lead to disqualification. Applicants are strongly advised to review all requirements carefully before submitting their application to ensure all necessary information is provided.

Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the SANSA Bursary Programme 2027 is 30 September 2026. It is recommended that applicants submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute technical issues or oversights. Ensuring all documents are correctly uploaded and the application is complete by the closing date is the applicant’s responsibility.

About the South African National Space Agency (SANSA)

SANSA plays a pivotal role in advancing South Africa’s capabilities in space science and technology. The agency is dedicated to promoting the peaceful use of outer space, supporting space research, and developing the nation’s space infrastructure. Through its bursary program, SANSA actively invests in nurturing future scientists and engineers, contributing to the country’s capacity in critical STEM fields and the broader space industry.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS