SARAO Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

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SARAO Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on SARAO Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you a high-achieving South African student with a strong interest in astronomy, space science, engineering, data science, or advanced research? The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering funding to talented students who aspire to contribute to world-class scientific research and innovation. SARAO is a national research facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and plays a leading role in radio astronomy projects such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), positioning South Africa at the forefront of global astronomical research.

The SARAO Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, which may include tuition fees, accommodation, prescribed study materials, and a living allowance, depending on the level of study. The programme supports undergraduate, honours, master’s, and doctoral students in critical fields related to astronomy, physics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, and data-intensive sciences. In addition to financial assistance, scholarship recipients benefit from access to cutting-edge research environments, mentorship by leading scientists, and opportunities to participate in internationally recognised research programmes.

By applying for the SARAO Scholarship 2026/2027, students gain more than just funding—they become part of a transformative scientific ecosystem that develops scarce skills, advances innovation, and contributes to South Africa’s knowledge economy. This scholarship is ideal for academically strong students who are passionate about science, research excellence, and contributing to large-scale international projects.

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 learn more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the SARAO Scholarship Application 2026/2027.

About SARAO

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is a national research facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF). SARAO is responsible for managing and advancing radio astronomy research and infrastructure in South Africa.

The organisation oversees world-class facilities such as the MeerKAT Radio Telescope, located in the Karoo, which forms part of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project. SARAO also manages Geodesy and Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) activities at the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO). Through its scholarship programmes, SARAO plays a vital role in developing highly skilled scientists and engineers for the country.

About the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship Programme 2026/2027
Fields of Study

SARAO invites eligible students to apply for its Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for the 2026 academic year. The scholarship is awarded to students pursuing undergraduate degrees in fields aligned with radio astronomy, space science, and advanced technology.

Fields Covered:

Scholarships will be awarded for studies in the following undergraduate programmes:

  • Astronomy / Astrophysics and Physics (BSc)
  • Computer Engineering (Bachelor’s degree)
  • Computer Science with a co-major in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics
  • Electronic Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechatronic Engineering
  • Mathematics / Applied Mathematics and Physics (BSc)
  • Physics and Electronics (BSc)
  • Physics and Electronics / Astrophysics / Computer Science (BSc)
SARAO Scholarship Value, Duration & Selection Process

The SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship is valued at R173,040, aimed at covering key study-related expenses. In addition, successful students will receive a once-off laptop grant of R12,000, enabling them to better manage academic work and research.

Scholarship Duration:

The duration of funding depends on your degree type and current year of study:

Bachelor of Engineering Degrees:

  • 1 year for 4th-year students
  • 2 years for 3rd-year students
  • 3 years for 2nd-year students
  • 4 years for 1st-year students

Bachelor of Science Degrees:

  • 1 year for 3rd-year students
  • 2 years for 2nd-year students
  • 3 years for 1st-year students

Successful applicants will be notified by no later than 10 December 2026. If you do not receive feedback by this date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements for SARAO Scholarship Application 2026/2027

To be considered for the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:

  • Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
  • Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
  • Must be studying or intending to study towards one of the approved undergraduate qualifications
  • Must have achieved:
    • A minimum of 70% for Mathematics in Matric, OR
    • A minimum overall average of 65% at undergraduate level
  • Must be studying or planning to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa

Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in your application not being considered.

How to Apply for SARAO Scholarship 2026/2027

Applications for the SARAO Scholarship must be submitted online via the official application portal: Click here to start the SARAO Scholarship Application 2026

Applicants are required to register an account before logging in to complete the application.

Supporting Documents Required:

You must upload clear copies of the following documents (missing documents may lead to disqualification):

  • South African ID document (SA citizens)
  • Passport and permanent residence visa (permanent residents)
  • Latest Matric report (if currently in Matric)
  • Matric certificate (if Matric is completed)
  • University academic record (if currently studying)
  • Two letters of reference (one must be from a teacher or lecturer)
  • Motivational letter (maximum 1,000 words), explaining:
    • Your academic achievements
    • Why you chose your field of study
    • Your research and career aspirations
    • Why you deserve to be awarded the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship
Closing Date for SARAO Scholarship Application 2026/2027

The closing date for applications is 31 August.

Important: Universities may have their own internal closing dates. Applicants are advised to confirm deadlines with their institution and submit applications well in advance. Late applications will not be accepted.

Contact Details of SARAO

For any queries regarding the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship Programme, contact the bursary provider directly:

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