South Africa requires more qualified graduates in science and engineering to achieve the goals of the National Development Plan and ensure sustainable growth. The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) provides postgraduate bursaries to contribute to the national target of producing skilled postgraduates in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
These bursaries are designed for Masters and Doctoral students pursuing advanced degrees in science and engineering fields, supporting both tuition and research efforts.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SANSA 2026 postgraduate bursary, applicants must:
✔ Be a South African citizen
✔ Be 32 years or younger at the time of application
✔ Have an academic average of 65% or higher in your last year of study or most recent examinations
✔ Be studying a relevant science or engineering qualification at an accredited South African university
✔ Apply for Masters or Doctoral studies
Note: Applications that are incomplete or encrypted/password-protected will not be considered.
Fields of Study Supported
SANSA bursaries support a wide range of STEM disciplines, including but not limited to:
Environmental & Earth Sciences:
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Applied Remote Sensing
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Applied Remote Sensing & GIS
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Botany
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Ecology & Resource Management
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Environmental Science & Management
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Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
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Environmental & Water Science
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Environmental Geology
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Plant & Environmental Science
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Statistical Ecology
Engineering & Technology:
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Computer & Electronic Engineering
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Computer Engineering
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Electrical Engineering
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Electronic Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Mechatronics Engineering
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Energy Studies
Computer Science & IT:
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Computer Science
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Information Systems
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Information Technology
Mathematics & Physics:
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Mathematics
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Applied Mathematics
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Physics
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Space Science
These bursaries are intended for students in STEM postgraduate programmes aligned with SANSA’s mandate and national skill priorities.
What You Need to Apply – Required Documents
Prepare the following certified and complete documents before submission:
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Full, official university academic record (from first year to latest results, including midyear or final 2025 results)
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Official undergraduate university student account statement or official NSFAS funding letter for undergraduate fees
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Certified copy of your South African ID (within 3 months of submission)
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Masters applicants:
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Testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor
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Draft proposal (max 2 pages), signed and dated by both student and supervisor
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Doctoral applicants:
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Testimonial from a lecturer or proposed supervisor
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Draft proposal (max 4 pages), signed and dated by both student and supervisor
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Failure to submit any of the above or submission of encrypted/password-protected files will result in your application being deemed incomplete.
Important Application Tips
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Only relevant STEM qualifications will be considered
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Ensure your academic average is 65% or higher
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Submit all documents well before the closing date
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Proposals must be concise, signed and dated by both student and supervisor
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Masters proposals: 2 pages maximum
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Doctoral proposals: 4 pages maximum
Why Apply for SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries?
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Fully supports your research and tuition
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Contributes to South Africa’s STEM workforce development
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Opportunity to join cutting-edge projects in space science, environmental monitoring, and engineering research
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Networking with professionals in science, technology, and space sectors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the SANSA bursary?
South African citizens aged 32 or younger, with a 65%+ academic average, pursuing a Masters or Doctoral STEM qualification.
2. What fields are supported?
Fields include engineering, computer science, environmental science, GIS, physics, mathematics, space science, and applied STEM disciplines.
3. Can I apply if I am already enrolled?
Yes — current postgraduate students in relevant STEM fields can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
4. Are incomplete applications considered?
No — all required documents must be submitted and not encrypted/password-protected.
5. What documents are required?
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Full academic record
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Undergraduate account statement or NSFAS letter
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Certified ID copy
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Masters/Doctoral testimonial
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Draft proposal (Masters: 2 pages, Doctoral: 4 pages), signed by both applicant and supervisor
