SANSA Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on SANSA Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about space science, technology, and innovation? The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Bursary Application 2026/2027 is now open, offering an incredible opportunity for academically talented students to pursue studies in science, engineering, and technology-related fields. As a leading government agency driving South Africa’s space research and satellite technology initiatives, SANSA invests in developing future scientists, engineers, and researchers who will contribute to the country’s advancement in space and Earth observation technologies.

The SANSA Bursary Programme supports undergraduate and postgraduate students in key disciplines such as space science, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, remote sensing, data science, mathematics, and electronic engineering. The bursary covers essential academic expenses such as tuition fees, study materials, and in some cases, accommodation and living costs, ensuring that students can focus fully on their studies and research.

By applying for the SANSA Bursary 2026/2027, students gain not only financial assistance but also the chance to be part of South Africa’s growing space innovation ecosystem. Successful applicants may also benefit from mentorship, internship opportunities, and exposure to world-class research projects within SANSA’s divisions.

In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.

Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026

Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026

Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026

Keep reading to find out more about eligibility requirements, supported fields of study, the application process, and the closing date for the SANSA Bursary Application 2026/2027.

About The South African National Space Agency (SANSA)

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) was established in 2010 as a public entity under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). SANSA’s mission is to advance South Africa’s capabilities in aeronautics and space science through research, innovation, and data-driven solutions.

The agency specializes in remote sensing, collecting data via satellites to monitor and assess fires, floods, environmental changes, and resource management across South Africa and the African continent. By turning satellite data into actionable insights, SANSA supports sustainable development, environmental protection, and technological advancement.

About the SANSA Bursary Programme 2026/2027

Fields Covered

The SANSA Postgraduate Bursary Programme aims to support Honours, Masters, and Doctoral students pursuing studies in various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines.

Fields covered include, but are not limited to:

Applied Mathematics
Applied Remote Sensing
Applied Remote Sensing & GIS
Botany
Computer & Electronic Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Ecology & Resource Management
Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Energy Studies
Environmental & Water Science
Environmental Management
Environmental Science
Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
Geography & Environmental Studies
Geoinformatics
Information Technology & Systems
Mathematics
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Physics
Plant & Environmental Science
Space Science
Statistical Ecology

Through this bursary, SANSA aims to develop highly skilled graduates in science and engineering—fields that are vital for achieving the goals of South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) and ensuring a sustainable, technology-driven future.

Benefits of the SANSA Bursary Programme

The SANSA postgraduate bursary provides financial assistance to students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. While specific coverage details may vary, bursaries typically include:

Tuition fees (full or partial)
Research and study-related costs
Living allowances (depending on the study level)
Mentorship and academic guidance from SANSA professionals

The programme also opens doors to career opportunities within the space science sector, contributing to research that benefits both South Africa and the wider African continent.

Eligibility Criteria for SANSA Bursary Application 2026/2027

To be eligible for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

Must be a South African citizen aged 32 years or younger
Must be studying or intending to study toward a postgraduate STEM qualification (Honours, Masters, or Doctorate) in one of the listed fields
Must have achieved at least 65% average in your most recent academic year or final examination
Must show strong academic potential
Must demonstrate financial need
Must have a genuine interest in space science or the space sector

Failure to meet all requirements will result in disqualification.

How to Apply for SANSA Bursary Application 2026/2027

Applications must be submitted online at: Click here to access SANSA Bursary Application portal for 2026

Compulsory Supporting Documents (in PDF format):

Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than 3 months)
Full academic transcript (from 1st year to latest results)
Official university account statement or NSFAS funding letter (undergraduate fees)
Masters & Doctoral applicants only:

- Completed SANSA testimonial form (by a lecturer or proposed supervisor)
- Masters applicants: Draft research proposal (max. 2 pages, signed and dated)
- Doctoral applicants: Draft research proposal (max. 4 pages, signed and dated)

Ensure all documents are clear and correctly formatted. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Closing Date for SANSA Bursary Applications 2026/2027

30 September 2025

Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted. Apply early to ensure consideration.

Contact Details of SANSA

For any questions or assistance regarding the bursary, contact SANSA directly:

Email: grants@sansa.org.za
Website: www.sansa.org.za