The South African National Space Agency has opened applications for its 2027 postgraduate bursary programme. The bursaries support students pursuing honours, master’s, and doctoral qualifications in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
- About the South African National Space Agency Bursaries
- Who Can Apply for SANSA Bursaries?
- South African National Space Agency Supported Fields of Study
- Funding Amounts for SANSA Bursaries 2027
- Required Documents for SANSA Bursaries
- Important Application Requirements
- How to Apply for South African National Space Agency Bursaries
- Why Study Through the South African National Space Agency?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Through the SANSA Bursaries programme, qualifying students can receive funding to advance their studies while contributing to South Africa’s scientific and technological development.
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
About the South African National Space Agency Bursaries
The South African National Space Agency provides postgraduate bursaries to help increase the number of qualified science and engineering graduates in South Africa.
The programme supports the country’s skills development goals outlined in the National Development Plan. Furthermore, it aims to strengthen expertise in space science, engineering, environmental sciences, and related fields.
Students studying towards honours, master’s, or doctoral qualifications can apply if their field of study aligns with SANSA’s research and development priorities.
Who Can Apply for SANSA Bursaries?
The bursary programme is open to South African students pursuing postgraduate qualifications in relevant STEM disciplines.
Applicants must:
- Be studying towards an honours, master’s, or doctoral qualification
- Be enrolled in an approved science, engineering, or technology-related field
- Achieve a minimum academic average of 65% in their most recent year of study
- Submit all required supporting documents before the closing date
Students with incomplete applications will not be considered.
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South African National Space Agency Supported Fields of Study
The South African National Space Agency supports a wide range of disciplines across Earth Observation, Space Engineering, and Space Science.
Earth Observation Fields
Examples include:
- Applied Remote Sensing
- GIS and Remote Sensing
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Management
- Geoinformatics
- Geography and Environmental Science
- Ecology and Resource Management
- Botany
- Environmental Geology
- Water Science
Space Engineering Fields
Eligible engineering and technology disciplines include:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Information Technology
Space Science Fields
Supported science disciplines include:
- Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics
- Physics
- Space Science
- Energy Studies
In addition, Information Systems and Information Technology qualifications may qualify across multiple SANSA focus areas.
Funding Amounts for SANSA Bursaries 2027
Successful applicants may receive the following annual funding:
| Qualification Level | Funding Amount |
|---|---|
| Honours | R150,000 per year |
| Master’s | R160,000 per year |
| Doctoral | R170,000 per year |
The bursary funding assists students with postgraduate study expenses and academic development.
Required Documents for SANSA Bursaries
Applicants must upload clear PDF copies of the following documents:
- Certified South African ID document (certified within the last three months)
- Full university academic record from first year of study
- Final or mid-year 2026 academic results
- Official undergraduate student account statement
- Official NSFAS funding letter, where applicable
Additional Documents for Master’s and Doctoral Applicants
Master’s and doctoral candidates must also provide:
- SANSA testimonial completed by a lecturer or proposed supervisor
Master’s Applicants
Master’s applicants must submit:
- Draft research proposal of no more than two pages
- Proposal signed and dated by both the applicant and proposed supervisor
Doctoral Applicants
Doctoral applicants must submit:
- Draft research proposal of no more than four pages
- Proposal signed and dated by both the applicant and proposed supervisor
Important Application Requirements
Before submitting your application, ensure that:
- All required documents are included
- Documents are uploaded in PDF format
- Files are not password-protected or encrypted
- Information provided is accurate and complete
Failure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification.
How to Apply for South African National Space Agency Bursaries
Applications must be submitted online through the official SANSA bursary portal.
Application Deadline
- Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Applicants should submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Application Link
Apply online through the official SANSA bursary portal:
SANSA Bursary Application 2027
For more information about SANSA research projects and programmes, visit:
South African National Space Agency Official Website
Why Study Through the South African National Space Agency?
The South African National Space Agency plays a critical role in advancing space science, engineering, Earth observation, and technological innovation in South Africa.
By supporting postgraduate students, SANSA helps develop highly skilled professionals who can contribute to scientific research, environmental monitoring, satellite technology, and national development initiatives.
As a result, successful bursary recipients gain valuable opportunities to participate in research that supports South Africa’s growing space sector.
RELATED: Browse more Bursaries on Nasi Ispani.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do applications for SANSA Bursaries 2027 close?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
What is the minimum academic average required?
Applicants must have achieved at least 65% in their most recent year of study.
How much funding does SANSA provide?
Funding ranges from R150,000 per year for honours students to R170,000 per year for doctoral students.
The South African National Space Agency Bursaries 2027 offer valuable financial support for postgraduate STEM students. With funding of up to R170,000 per year, the programme helps develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, and researchers. Students who meet the academic requirements and study in approved fields should submit their applications before the 30 September 2026 deadline.
