QUICK INFORMATION SECTION
• Bursary Provider: South African National Space Agency (SANSA)
• Academic Year: 2027
• Fields of Study: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
• Funding Type: Full/Partial Postgraduate Funding
• Location: South Africa
• Closing Date: 30 September 2026
• Application Method: Online via official portal / Enquiries via email
INTRODUCTION
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is inviting high-achieving students to apply for its 2027 postgraduate bursary programme. This initiative is designed to support the next generation of scientists and engineers who wish to push the boundaries of innovation and explore the “next frontier”.
As South Africa strives to meet the goals of the National Development Plan, there is a growing demand for experts in scarce skill areas. SANSA’s bursary programme serves as a critical pipeline to ensure the country is equipped with the highly qualified post-graduates needed for a sustainable and technologically advanced future. For students passionate about space, technology, and research, this is more than just a financial award; it is an invitation to join a community of world-class researchers working on impactful national projects.
ABOUT THE BURSARY PROVIDER
SANSA is South Africa’s premier agency dedicated to space-related activities, including Space Science, Space Operations, Space Engineering, and Earth Observation. The agency operates across multiple locations in Gauteng and the Western Cape, maintaining a legacy of impact through research and data management. The organization’s mission is to foster a culture of honesty and ethical practice while advancing South Africa’s presence in the global space industry. By offering these bursaries, SANSA aims to increase the number of science and engineering graduates to resource the country effectively.
ABOUT THE BURSARY PROGRAMME
The SANSA bursary programme specifically targets students pursuing postgraduate qualifications. The agency provides financial support to help students complete their advanced degrees and contribute to the national target for qualified post-graduates in STEM fields.
The programme is available to students at the following academic levels:
• Honours
• Masters
• Doctoral (PhD)
FIELDS OF STUDY COVERED
SANSA supports a wide range of degrees within Science, Engineering, and Technology. Supported fields include, but are not limited to:
Earth Observation (EO) and Environmental Science:
• Applied Remote Sensing and GIS
• Ecology & Resource Management
• Geography, Geology, and Environmental Science
• Geoinformatics and Statistical Ecology
• Botany and Plant Science
Space Engineering (SE) and Technology:
• Computer, Electronic, and Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering
• Information Technology and Computer Science
Space Science (SS) and Mathematics:
• Applied Mathematics and Physics
• Space Science and Energy Studies
• Information Systems
BURSARY BENEFITS AND COVERAGE
The bursary provides significant financial assistance to cover the costs associated with postgraduate research and study. The funding amounts for the 2027 academic year are:
• Honours Students: R150,000 per annum
• Masters Students: R160,000 per annum
• Doctoral Students: R170,000 per annum
REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for the SANSA bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Academic Performance: Must have achieved a minimum academic average of 65% during their last year of study.
• Field of Study: Must be studying towards a relevant science or engineering qualification.
• Qualification Level: Must be enrolling for Honours, Masters, or Doctoral studies in 2027.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Applicants must ensure they provide the following documentation to be considered:
• Certified ID Copy: Must be certified within 3 months of the application date.
• Academic Records: A full, official university transcript from the first year of study, including recent 2026 results.
• Fee Documentation: An official university student account statement or an official letter confirming NSFAS funding for undergraduate studies.
• Testimonials: Required for Masters and Doctoral applicants from a lecturer or proposed supervisor.
• Research Proposals: Masters applicants must submit a 2-page draft proposal; Doctoral applicants must submit a 4-page draft proposal.
• Signed Approvals: All research proposals must be signed and dated by both the applicant and their supervisor.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested students should follow these steps to secure their application:
Step 1: Visit the official SANSA website or the Fundisa Student Portal to access the application link.
Step 2: Gather and scan all required documents, ensuring they are not password-protected or encrypted.
Step 3: Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
Step 4: Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your research proposal if applying for a Master’s or PhD.
For any technical difficulties or inquiries, students can contact SANSA Student Queries at students@sansa.org.za.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
The application window is currently open for the 2027 academic year.
Important Reminder: Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Applications submitted after the closing date (to be announced on the portal) will not be considered.
IMPORTANT NOTES
• Completeness: Applications that are missing documents or contain encrypted files will be rejected immediately.
• Selection: Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an award, as the process is competitive.
• Ethics: SANSA maintains a strict policy against fraud and unethical practices; all information provided must be honest.
WHY STUDENTS SHOULD APPLY
Applying for a SANSA bursary offers more than just financial relief. It provides students with:
• Financial Security: Generous annual stipends to focus entirely on research.
• Industry Connection: The chance to work within the national space agency and engage with expert researchers.
• National Impact: The opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s National Development Plan and solve real-world environmental and technological challenges.
CONCLUSION
If you are a high-performing student ready to take your scientific or engineering career to the next level, the SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursary is your gateway to success. Don’t miss this chance to fund your research and join the forefront of space exploration in South Africa. Ensure your application is complete and submit it today!