SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027: Honours, Masters & Doctoral Funding

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is inviting qualifying South African science and engineering students to apply for its 2027 Postgraduate Bursary Programme. This opportunity supports students pursuing Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

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

About the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027

The SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme aims to develop scarce skills needed for space science, earth observation, engineering, and technology in South Africa. It supports students with strong academic records who wish to pursue postgraduate studies relevant to SANSA’s research and operational areas. This programme is designed to contribute to the nation’s need for highly qualified science and engineering graduates.

The bursary is open to students undertaking Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral studies in eligible Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. SANSA’s goal is to foster expertise that supports national development through space science and technology.

About the South African National Space Agency (SANSA)

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a government entity responsible for advancing space science and technology in South Africa. Its work spans Earth observation, space engineering, space science, research, and data services. SANSA plays a key role in developing scientific and technical skills within the country.

Through initiatives like the postgraduate bursary programme, SANSA invests in students who can contribute to the future growth of South Africa’s space, science, engineering, and technology sectors.

Available Postgraduate Opportunities

SANSA supports postgraduate studies across various STEM fields. While specific learnerships or internships are not detailed, the bursary covers a range of disciplines. Applicants should ensure their chosen field aligns with SANSA’s research and operational areas.

What the SANSA Bursary Offers

Successful applicants can receive significant annual funding to support their postgraduate studies. The bursary aims to cover study-related costs, contributing to tuition fees, research expenses, academic materials, accommodation, and living expenses.

The bursary offers:

• Annual funding for Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral studies.
• Support for tuition fees and research costs.
• Contribution towards accommodation and living expenses.
• Exposure to cutting-edge research in space science and technology.
• Development of specialist skills crucial for South Africa’s science and engineering sectors.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary programme supports postgraduate studies at recognised South African universities. The specific duration of the bursary is dependent on the student’s programme of study and their continued academic performance. The bursary is intended to support the completion of Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees.

Minimum Requirements

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

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be applying for an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral qualification.
• Study in an eligible science, engineering, or technology discipline.
• Have achieved an academic average of at least 65% in their most recent year of study or latest examination results.
• Meet the admission requirements of the selected university and postgraduate programme.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not listed, a strong academic record is paramount. Applicants should also demonstrate:

• A clear research interest relevant to SANSA’s work.
• The ability to conduct independent research.
• A commitment to academic excellence.
• Good communication skills for proposal writing and reporting.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for science and engineering graduates who are passionate about pursuing advanced studies in fields related to space science, earth observation, and technology. If you have a strong academic background and a desire to contribute to South Africa’s scientific and technological advancement, this opportunity is for you.

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.
• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Ensure all uploaded files are not encrypted or password-protected.
• The certification of your identity document must be within three months of the application date.
• Applicants must have an academic average of at least 65%.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline to allow time for document gathering and review.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.