Bursary Provider: South African National Space Agency (SANSA)
Category: Postgraduate Bursaries
Field: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)
Study Level: Postgraduate (Honours, Masters & Doctoral)
Citizenship: South African citizens
Age Limit: 32 years or younger

Application Dates

Opens: May 2026
Closes: 30 September 2026

About the Bursary

South Africa urgently needs more science and engineering graduates to address scarce and critical skills identified in the National Development Plan.

SANSA offers postgraduate bursaries to support students studying towards STEM qualifications, contributing to national development and innovation in science and engineering.

Fields of Study (Including but not limited to)

Environmental & Geographical Sciences

Environmental Science
Environmental Management
Environmental & Water Science
Environmental Geology
Ecology & Resource Management
Botany
Plant & Environmental Science
Statistical Ecology

Geography, GIS & Remote Sensing

Geography
Geographical Science
Geographical & Environmental Science
GIS & Remote Sensing
Geoinformatics
Applied Remote Sensing
Applied Remote Sensing & GIS

Engineering & Technology

Computer Engineering
Computer & Electronic Engineering
Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Information Technology
Information Systems

Science & Mathematics

Mathematics
Applied Mathematics
Physics
Space Science
Energy Studies
Computer Science

What You Need to Apply

Applicants must submit all of the following:

✔ Full official university academic record (from first year, including latest results)
✔ Official undergraduate student account statement OR NSFAS funding confirmation
✔ Certified copy of ID (not older than 3 months)

Additional Requirements:

Masters & Doctoral applicants:
- Testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor
Masters applicants:
- Draft proposal (maximum 2 pages)
Doctoral applicants:
- Draft proposal (maximum 4 pages)
All proposals must be signed and dated by the applicant and proposed supervisor

Important Notes

Incomplete applications will not be considered
Encrypted or password-protected documents will be rejected
Only relevant science qualifications will be considered
Applicants must have a minimum academic average of 65%
Applicants must be 32 years or younger

Enquiries

For further information, contact:
SANSA Student Queries
students@sansa.org.za