The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has officially opened applications for the SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries. The programme supports talented students pursuing postgraduate qualifications in science, engineering, and space-related disciplines.
Moreover, the bursaries help South Africa increase the number of highly skilled graduates in STEM fields. Therefore, if you plan to pursue an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, this opportunity could provide the financial support you need.
If you’re searching for more scholarship opportunities, visit our Scholarships page:
https://opportunitylab.net/category/scholarships/
SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries Overview
The SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries aim to strengthen research capacity by funding postgraduate students in science and engineering. In addition, the programme supports students whose research contributes to innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
Successful applicants can pursue postgraduate studies in several approved disciplines while receiving annual financial support throughout their programmes.
Eligible Fields Under SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries
The bursary programme covers a broad range of STEM disciplines. Consequently, students from various scientific and engineering backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Earth Observation and Environmental Sciences
Eligible fields include:
- Applied Remote Sensing
- Applied Remote Sensing and GIS
- Botany
- Ecology and Resource Management
- Environmental Science
- Environmental and Geographical Science
- Environmental and Water Science
- Environmental Geology
- Environmental Management
- Geographical Information Systems
- Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing
- Geographical Science
- Geography with Remote Sensing and GIS
- Geography and Environmental Management
- Geography and Environmental Science
- Geoinformatics
- GIS and Remote Sensing
- Information Systems and Remote Sensing
- Plant and Environmental Science
- Statistical Ecology
Engineering and Technology Disciplines
Applicants may also study:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Computer and Electronic Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Mathematics, Physics, and Space Sciences
Additional eligible disciplines include:
- Applied Mathematics
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Space Science
- Energy Studies
- Information Systems
- Information Technology
Who Can Apply for SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries?
The programme welcomes Bachelor of Science and Engineering graduates who intend to pursue:
- Honours degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral (PhD) degrees
Furthermore, applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance and an interest in advancing scientific research.
Documents Required for SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries
Applicants must prepare the following documents before submitting their applications:
- Official university academic record from first year through the latest available 2026 results
- Official undergraduate student account statement or an official NSFAS funding letter
- Certified copy of a South African ID issued within three months of the application date
- Testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor for Master’s and Doctoral applicants
- Master’s research proposal (maximum two pages)
- Doctoral research proposal (maximum four pages)
Additionally, every research proposal must be signed and dated by both the applicant and the proposed supervisor.
SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries Funding Amounts
Successful applicants will receive annual funding based on their level of study.
| Study Level | Annual Funding |
| Honours | R150,000 |
| Master’s | R160,000 |
| Doctoral (PhD) | R170,000 |
Consequently, recipients can focus more on their studies and research while reducing financial pressure.
SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries Application Deadline
The application deadline is:
30 September 2026
Therefore, interested students should begin gathering their academic records, proposals, and supporting documents well before the closing date.
How to Prepare a Strong SANSA Bursary Application
A competitive application requires careful preparation. First, ensure all supporting documents are complete and up to date. Next, prepare a clear and well-structured research proposal that demonstrates originality and relevance.
Moreover, Master’s and Doctoral applicants should seek feedback from their proposed supervisors before submitting their proposals. A polished application often makes a stronger impression during the evaluation process.
Why You Should Apply for SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries
The SANSA 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries provide more than financial assistance. In addition to generous annual funding, recipients gain the opportunity to contribute to research that supports South Africa’s scientific and technological advancement.
Whether your interests lie in remote sensing, engineering, mathematics, environmental science, or space research, this programme offers an excellent pathway to advance your academic and professional goals.
For more fellowships and STEM funding opportunities, visit: https://opportunitylab.net/category/fellowships
Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your future. Submit your application before 30 September 2026 and take the next step toward a rewarding career in science, engineering, or space technology.
