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 is for students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) qualifications. Eligible applicants can receive up to R170,000 per year to support 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

About the SANSA Bursary Programme

The SANSA Bursary Programme aims to support students in STEM fields that are relevant to South Africa’s science, engineering, and space sectors. It is designed to develop postgraduate skills and encourage research within these critical areas. The bursary is open to students undertaking Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral studies.

This initiative is crucial for building a strong pipeline of skilled professionals in fields like space science, engineering, and technology. SANSA is committed to fostering innovation and research excellence within South Africa.

About SANSA

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a government entity responsible for promoting space science and technology in South Africa. It plays a key role in space research, Earth observation, and space engineering. SANSA also works to develop human capital in space-related fields.

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 Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Geographical Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Mathematics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Space Science

The programme supports qualifications that align with SANSA’s strategic objectives and contribute to the advancement of space science and technology in the country.

SANSA Bursary Value for 2027

The bursary amount varies depending 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 fees, living expenses, and research costs for successful applicants.

Eligibility Requirements

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

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

Applicants are advised to carefully review all requirements before submitting their application.

Documents Required

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

• Certified copy of your South African ID document (certified within the last three months, in PDF format).
• Complete university academic record from the first year of study, including final-year or mid-year 2026 results (in PDF format).
• Official undergraduate university student account statement or an official 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 both the applicant and proposed supervisor.

Doctoral applicants must submit:

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

Incomplete applications with missing compulsory documentation may not be considered.

How to Apply

Applications for the SANSA Bursary 2027 must be submitted online via the official SANSA bursary application system.

Click here to apply for the SANSA Bursary 2027

Ensure you complete the online application form accurately and upload all required supporting documents before the closing date of 30 September 2026.

Contact SANSA

For any questions or further information regarding the bursary programme, you can contact SANSA via email at:

Email: [email protected]

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must ensure they meet all the minimum eligibility requirements.
• Incomplete applications may lead to disqualification.
• Ensure all submitted documents are certified and clear.

Closing Date

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

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.