The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) has opened applications for its Freestanding Undergraduate Scholarships for the 2027 academic year. The scholarships fund full-time BSc and BEng studies in engineering, physics, computer science and related fields at South African universities, and they are aimed at learners currently in Matric as well as students already at university. Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and close on 14 August 2026.
About SARAO and the Scholarship Programme
SARAO is a national facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and leads South Africa’s participation in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), the biggest radio telescope project in the world, on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. SARAO built and operates the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, a world-class instrument that has put South African science on the global map.
Because the SKA project needs a pipeline of local engineers and scientists, SARAO invests heavily in developing young South African talent, from undergraduate level all the way to postdoctoral fellowships. The undergraduate scholarship programme has supported hundreds of students into careers in engineering, astronomy, data science and technology, and it is one of the most generous science funding opportunities available to Matric learners in the country.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Funding for full-time undergraduate study, widely published at R183,000 per year, plus a once-off laptop grant of R13,000 (final award values are confirmed in the official application guide)
- Support for BSc and BEng degrees for a duration of 1 to 4 years depending on your year of study and degree type
- Access to the SARAO student community, with opportunities for vacation work and postgraduate funding later in your studies
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- Learners currently in Matric, those who have completed Matric, and current university students in eligible degrees
- Engineering applicants: a minimum of 70% for Mathematics in Matric
- Science applicants: a minimum of 70% for both Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric
- Eligible fields include Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Physics, Astronomy and Astrophysics, and combinations such as Physics with Mathematics or Electronics
- You must be studying or intending to study full-time at a recognised South African university in 2027
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Your latest academic results (Grade 11 finals or Matric preliminary results if you are in Matric now, or your full university academic record if you are already studying)
- Proof of application or acceptance at a South African university for 2027
- Any additional documents listed in the official application guide for 2027
RELATED: Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary 2027: Fully Funded, Closes 19 August
How to Apply
- Visit the SARAO undergraduate scholarships page and download the Application Guide for SARAO BSc and BEng Undergraduate Scholarships for 2027.
- Read the guide carefully. It explains the online application system, the eligibility rules and every document you must upload.
- Prepare your certified documents and academic results.
- Complete the online application as directed in the guide.
- Submit before the closing date of 14 August 2026.
Apply at SARAO (official scholarships page)
Closing Date
The closing date for the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship 2027 is 14 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Thousands of talented Matric learners with strong marks in Mathematics and Physical Science never study engineering or science because their families cannot afford university. A fully funded scholarship removes that barrier completely, and SARAO’s programme goes further than money: it connects you to South Africa’s flagship science project and a network of engineers and researchers working on world-leading technology.
Engineering, physics and computer science remain among the scarcest skills in the South African economy, which means graduates in these fields enjoy some of the best employment prospects in the country. If you are in Matric now and your marks qualify, this application could change the direction of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am in Matric now. Can I apply before I get my final results?
Yes. Learners currently in Matric apply using their latest available results, such as Grade 11 finals or preliminary results. Final awards are confirmed once Matric results are released.
Which universities can I study at?
The scholarship supports study at recognised South African universities. The application guide lists the eligible institutions and degree programmes for 2027.
Do I have to work for SARAO after I graduate?
Check the current application guide for any service or bursary conditions. Many SARAO students do go on to vacation work and postgraduate funding within the SKA project, but conditions are set out in the official guide.
I am already at university. Can I still apply?
Yes. The scholarships fund students for 1 to 4 years depending on your year of study, so current undergraduate students in eligible degrees may apply as well.
Applying for this opportunity?
Make sure your application stands out with these free tools:
