Space science is growing fast in South Africa. If you are studying science or engineering at university right now, you can get up to R170,000 per year to finish your higher degree. The SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2027 are open for students who want to work in space research, engineering, or environmental science. This is your chance to connect your studies with real projects that build South Africa’s future.
What Is This Bursary?
The South African National Space Agency runs this programme. They want to help students who will bring scarce science and engineering skills into the country. This is not just money for books and fees. It is a pathway into space science, remote sensing, and technology careers that matter.
You can get funding for Honours, Masters, or Doctoral studies. This includes your fourth year after your Bachelor’s degree, or MTech and DTech qualifications.
Who Can Apply?
You must be studying towards a science or engineering qualification. Your marks are important. You need at least 65% average in your last year or your last exam. SANSA will not accept applications with lower marks.
The bursary covers many fields. You can apply if you study:
- Remote sensing
- GIS
- Geoinformatics
- Environmental science
- Geography
- Ecology and resource management
- Computer science
- Information technology
- Electrical and electronic engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Mechatronics engineering
- Applied mathematics
- Physics
- Space science
If your field is close to these subjects, check the official SANSA page to confirm you qualify.
How Much Money Will You Get?
The funding is different for each level of study:
- Honours: R150,000 per year
- Masters: R160,000 per year
- Doctoral: R170,000 per year
This money helps cover the high costs of postgraduate study. It allows you to focus on your research without worrying about fees.
What Documents Do You Need?
You must apply online. Get your papers ready before you start. You will need:
- Your full academic record from first year to now. Include your final 2026 results or midyear 2026 results.
- Your university account statement or an official NSFAS funding letter.
- A certified copy of your ID. The certification must be less than three months old.
- For Masters and Doctoral applicants: A letter from your lecturer or the supervisor who will guide your research.
- For Masters and Doctoral applicants: A draft research proposal.
- A proposal signed and dated by both you and your supervisor.
Check the proposal length rules carefully. The bursary page and the form page might show different instructions. Follow the rules you see when you are filling in the form.
How to Apply
Go to the official SANSA online application portal. Fill in your personal details, your study information, and your family or guardian details. Read the final declaration carefully. You must confirm that everything you wrote is true and accurate.
Upload all your PDF documents. Make sure none of your files have passwords. SANSA cannot open locked documents. Missing papers or locked files will make your application incomplete.
If you have questions, email students@sansa.org.za. Do not send your full application by email. Use only the online portal.
Tips to Help You Succeed
Many students worry about the paperwork. Getting academic records and certified IDs takes longer than you think. Do not wait until the last day.
Name your PDF files clearly so you know what each one is. Check that your ID certification is not older than three months. Double-check that you meet the 65% mark requirement. Small mistakes can cost you the bursary.
What Happens Next?
This bursary gives you a real chance to work in South Africa’s space sector. The funding is strong. The career path is clear. If you meet the marks and you study the right subject, you should apply.
Visit the portal today. Start your application early. Your research could help build South Africa’s future in space science and technology.
About the writer: Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills development programmes. She specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges, and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable, and up-to-date guidance. She is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so South African students and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence. Contact: info@setacareers.co.za