SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027 (Funding Up to R170 000)
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has officially opened applications for its Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027, offering generous financial support to students pursuing Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The bursary is designed to develop South Africa’s next generation of scientists, engineers, and researchers by supporting postgraduate studies in fields linked to space science, earth observation, engineering, technology, and innovation.
Successful applicants may receive annual funding of up to R170 000, making this one of South Africa’s leading postgraduate funding opportunities.
Employer Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Provider | South African National Space Agency (SANSA) |
| Programme | Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Study Levels | Honours, Master’s & Doctoral |
| Fields | Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) |
| Study Location | Recognised South African Universities |
| Funding | Up to R170 000 per year |
| Application Method | Online |
Closing Date
Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Funding Amounts
| Study Level | Annual Funding |
|---|---|
| Honours | R150 000 |
| Master’s | R160 000 |
| Doctoral | R170 000 |
Funding is subject to SANSA’s bursary conditions and satisfactory academic performance.
Who Should Apply?
The bursary is intended for graduates planning to pursue postgraduate studies in qualifying STEM fields.
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Apply for Honours, Master’s or Doctoral studies
- Study at a recognised South African university
- Pursue an approved Science, Engineering or Technology qualification
- Achieve a minimum academic average of 65%
- Meet university admission requirements
- Submit all required supporting documents
Eligible Fields of Study
Earth Observation
Eligible disciplines include:
- Applied Remote Sensing
- GIS
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Geoinformatics
- Ecology
- Botany
- Environmental Management
- Water Science
- Environmental Geology
- Statistical Ecology
…and related disciplines.
Space Engineering
Applicants studying the following may qualify:
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Information Systems
Space Science
Relevant qualifications include:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics
- Energy Studies
- Space Science
- Information Technology
- Information Systems
Applicants should demonstrate how their postgraduate research aligns with SANSA’s research priorities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Minimum 65% academic average
- Admission into an eligible postgraduate programme
- Relevant STEM qualification
- Official academic transcript
- Certified South African ID
- Complete application with supporting documents
Master’s and Doctoral applicants must also submit:
- Lecturer or supervisor testimonial
- Signed research proposal
- Supervisor approval
Salary / Bursary Value
Bursary Funding:
- Honours – R150 000 per year
- Master’s – R160 000 per year
- Doctoral – R170 000 per year
The bursary may contribute towards:
- Tuition fees
- Research expenses
- Accommodation
- Living costs
- Academic materials
- Approved research travel
Documents Needed
Prepare the following documents before applying:
- Updated CV (if requested)
- Certified South African ID (certified within the last three months)
- Official Academic Transcript (from first year onward)
- Latest 2026 Academic Results
- Undergraduate Student Account Statement
- NSFAS Funding Letter (where applicable)
- Lecturer/Supervisor Testimonial (Master’s & PhD)
- Signed Research Proposal (Master’s & PhD)
- Any additional supporting documents requested
How to Apply
- Visit the official SANSA bursary portal.
- Select the appropriate postgraduate study level.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload your official academic record.
- Upload your student account statement or NSFAS letter.
- Upload your certified ID copy.
- Upload your research proposal and testimonial (if required).
- Review your application.
- Submit before 30 September 2026.
Official Application Link
Apply Here:
https://www.sansa.org.za/
Why You Should Apply
The SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme provides substantial financial support while helping South Africa develop highly skilled scientists, engineers, and technology specialists. In addition to easing the financial burden of postgraduate studies, the bursary enables students to contribute to cutting-edge research in space science, engineering, Earth observation, and national innovation.
Expert Guidance (YouthScope Editorial Team)
Expert Guidance
The YouthScope Editorial Team advises applicants to prepare all required documents before applying. Ensure your academic transcript is complete, your identity document has been certified within the last three months, and all research proposals and testimonials are signed where required. Submit your application well before the closing date to avoid delays in obtaining university records or supervisor approvals. Always apply through SANSA’s official bursary portal and keep proof of submission for your records.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply?
South African students pursuing Honours, Master’s or Doctoral studies in eligible STEM fields.
What is the minimum academic requirement?
Applicants must have an overall academic average of 65% or higher.
How much funding does SANSA provide?
Honours students may receive R150 000, Master’s students R160 000, and Doctoral students R170 000 per year.
Can undergraduate students apply?
No. This bursary is only available for postgraduate studies.
Which universities are eligible?
Applicants must study at recognised South African universities.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit an official academic transcript, certified ID, latest results, proof of undergraduate funding, and additional postgraduate documents where applicable.
When is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Disclaimer
YouthScope shares employment, internship, bursary and learnership opportunities from official employers to help South Africans access career opportunities. We are not the recruiting organisation and do not charge any application fees. Always verify information on the employer’s official website before submitting your application.
Opportunity Verification
Opportunity Verification
✅ Published by: YouthScope Editorial Team
✅ Last Updated: 23 July 2026
✅ Information Source: Official South African National Space Agency (SANSA) bursary announcement
✅ Status: Reviewed for accuracy
YouthScope shares career information to help South Africans discover opportunities. Applicants should confirm final details with the official organisation before applying.
The YouthScope Editorial Team publishes verified South African learnerships, internships, bursaries, graduate programmes, and career opportunities. Our team researches opportunities from official employers, government departments, SETAs, universities, and trusted organisations to provide accurate career information for South African youth.