SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries
SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027
Role Overview
The South African National Space Agency invites qualifying South African science and engineering students to apply for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Study Location: Recognised South African universities
The South African National Space Agency, commonly known as SANSA, has opened applications for its 2027 Postgraduate Bursary Programme.
The programme supports students pursuing Honours, Master’s and Doctoral qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields.
SANSA aims to contribute to South Africa’s need for highly qualified science and engineering graduates while developing the scarce skills required to support space science, earth observation, engineering, technology and national development.
Applicants must have a strong academic record and intend to pursue a postgraduate qualification relevant to SANSA’s research and operational areas.
Bursary provider: South African National Space AgencyAbbreviation: SANSAProgramme: Postgraduate Bursary Programme 2027Study levels: Honours, Master’s and DoctoralEligible fields: Science, Technology, Engineering and MathematicsMinimum academic average: 65%Closing date: 30 September 2026Application method: Online
Successful applicants may receive the following annual funding:
The final award will be subject to SANSA’s bursary conditions, available funding and the applicant’s continued academic performance.
The SANSA bursary is aimed at Bachelor of Science and Engineering graduates who plan to continue with postgraduate studies.
Be applying for an Honours, Master’s or Doctoral qualification.
Study in an eligible science, engineering or technology discipline.
Have an academic average of at least 65%.
Submit a complete official academic record.
Provide all compulsory supporting documents.
Ensure that uploaded files are not encrypted or password-protected.
Meet the admission requirements of the selected university and postgraduate programme.
Only applicants pursuing relevant science and engineering qualifications will be considered.
SANSA may consider postgraduate applications in the following Earth Observation-related fields:
Ecology and Resource Management
Environmental and Geographical Science
Environmental and Water Science
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing
Geographical and Environmental Science
Geographical Information Systems
Geography with Remote Sensing and GIS
Geography and Environmental Management
Geography and Environmental Science
Information Systems and Remote Sensing
Plant and Environmental Science
The list is not necessarily exhaustive, and related qualifications may also be considered.
Eligible engineering and technology qualifications may include:
Computer and Electronic Engineering
Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Applicants should explain how their research or postgraduate programme relates to space engineering, technology development or SANSA’s areas of work.
SANSA may also consider students pursuing postgraduate studies in:
Applicants in related scientific disciplines may be considered where their research aligns with SANSA’s programmes.
Applicants must have achieved an academic average of at least:
65% in their most recent year of study or latest examination results
Applications from students with an average below 65% will not be considered.
Students should submit a complete academic record from the first year of study rather than only their latest semester results.
Applicants must 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.
An official NSFAS funding letter where undergraduate studies were funded by NSFAS.
A certified copy of the applicant’s identity document.
Supporting documents required for the selected postgraduate level.
Any additional documents requested through the online application system.
The identity document must be certified within three months of the application date.
Master’s applicants must submit:
A complete official academic record.
A testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor.
A draft research proposal of no more than two pages.
All standard supporting documents.
The research proposal must be signed and dated by both:
Doctoral applicants must submit:
A draft doctoral research proposal of no more than four pages.
The doctoral proposal must be signed and dated by the applicant and proposed supervisor.
Master’s and Doctoral applicants should ensure that their proposals clearly outline:
Expected contribution to the field.
Relevance to SANSA’s research areas.
Unsigned, undated or excessively long proposals may result in an incomplete application.
Applicants must upload a full official university academic record covering:
Honours year, where applicable.
Latest semester or mid-ye
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• The SANSA bursary is aimed at Bachelor of Science and Engineering graduates who plan to continue with postgraduate studies.
• Applicants should:
• Be applying for an Honours, Master’s or Doctoral qualification.
• Study in an eligible science, engineering or technology discipline.
• Have an academic average of at least 65%.
• Submit a complete official academic record.
• Provide all compulsory supporting documents.
• Ensure that uploaded files are not encrypted or password-protected.
• Meet the admission requirements of the selected university and postgraduate programme.
• Only applicants pursuing relevant science and engineering qualifications will be considered.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official SANSA bursary platform. Click here to apply for SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027 Applicants should: Open the official SANSA bursary page. Review the programme requirements. Select the appropriate postgraduate study level. Complete the online application form. Upload the full official academic record. Upload proof of undergraduate funding. Upload a recently certified identity document. Upload the testimonial and proposal where required. Confirm that files are not password-protected. Review the complete application. Submit it before the closing date.
Email application: students@sansa.org.za
About SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries
This bursary is offered by SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 30 September 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 30 September 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
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