South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Bursary 2026 – South Africa
Location: South Africa
Bursary Type: Postgraduate (Honours, Masters, Doctoral)
Fields: STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
Closing Date: 30 September 2025
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA), established in 2010, is a public entity under the National Department of Science and Technology (DST). SANSA promotes aerospace and space research using satellite data for fires, floods, environmental monitoring, and resource management across Africa.
SANSA bursaries aim to develop critical STEM skills in South Africa and support research that drives national and continental development.
SANSA Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
SANSA offers bursaries for postgraduate studies (Honours, Masters, Doctoral) in STEM disciplines. Fields include, but are not limited to:
Applied Mathematics
Applied Remote Sensing & GIS
Botany
Computer & Electronic Engineering
Computer Engineering & Computer Science
Ecology & Resource Management
Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Energy Studies
Environmental & Water Science
Environmental Geology & Management
Geographical Information Systems & Remote Sensing
Information Systems & Technology
Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering
Physics
Plant & Environmental Science
Space Science
Statistical Ecology
SANSA bursaries help meet South Africa’s National Development Plan goals by supporting postgraduate STEM graduates critical for sustainable growth and innovation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all criteria to be considered:
Age: 32 years or younger
Qualification: Currently studying or intending to study a postgraduate STEM degree (as listed above)
Academic Performance: Minimum overall average of 65% in last year of study or examination
Potential: Demonstrated strong academic ability
Financial Need: Proven financial need
Career Interest: Committed to working within the space sector
Required Application Documents
Submit clear PDF copies of the following with your online application:
Certified ID document (within 3 months)
Full university academic record from 1st year to most recent results
Official student account statement or NSFAS funding letter for undergraduate fees
SANSA testimonial by a lecturer or proposed supervisor (Masters & Doctoral students)
Draft research proposal:
Masters: max 2 pages, signed by applicant and supervisor
Doctoral: max 4 pages, signed by applicant and supervisor
Missing documents may result in disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online via the SANSA bursary portal. Ensure all required documents are included.
Late applications will not be considered. Apply before the deadline to ensure consideration.
Why Apply for the SANSA Bursary?
Fully funded postgraduate STEM studies in South Africa
Opportunity to work in cutting-edge space research and technology
Develop skills supporting environmental monitoring, aerospace, and national development
Build a career with SANSA or within the broader aerospace and space sector
Let me know if you need assistance.