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Closed · Closed 15 Jul 2026

South African Radio Astronomy Observatory

SARAO Masters Scholarship

Apply now Application guidelines (PDF)

Closes

15 July 2026

Value

R200 000 + grants

Level

Master's

For

SA, SADC & partner African citizens

Sector

Astronomy & Engineering

Type

Scholarship

About this bursary

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory offers freestanding Master's scholarships for students undertaking approved engineering and science projects in 2027. Funded candidates receive financial support toward tuition, living costs, research equipment, and travel expenses.

SARAO manages major astronomical projects such as the MeerKAT telescope and the Square Kilometre Array initiative. This funding scheme aims to cultivate advanced technical expertise and scientific talent across Africa in key disciplines supporting radio astronomy.

Recipients must select from an official list of pre-approved research projects and obtain written confirmation from an endorsed supervisor prior to applying.

Courses of study covered

BSc Honours in Physics and Astronomy / Astrophysics
BSc Honours in Computer Science and Mathematics
4-year BEng in Electronic Engineering
4-year BEng in Mechatronic Engineering
4-year BEng in Computer Engineering
SARAO-Approved Master's Research Projects in Science
SARAO-Approved Master's Research Projects in Engineering

What the bursary covers

Annual scholarship stipend of R200 000
Full payment of international student tuition fees where relevant
Travel grant allowance valued at R40 000
Equipment allowance valued at R25 000
Home travel grant covering one return trip annually
Full coverage for repatriation fees if applicable
Emergency medical insurance coverage
Assistive technology device allowance up to R20 000

Who can apply

You qualify if

  • You must be a citizen or permanent resident of South Africa, or a citizen of Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, or Zambia.
  • You must hold or currently be completing a BSc Honours in Physics and Astronomy, Astrophysics, Computer Science, or Mathematics.
  • Alternatively, you must hold or be completing a four-year BEng in Electronic, Mechatronic, or Computer Engineering.
  • You must have achieved a minimum aggregate mark of 65% for your Honours degree or final year of your engineering degree.
  • You must select a research project approved by SARAO for 2027 Master's studies and secure a signed agreement from the designated supervisor.

You do not qualify if

  • Applicants with an academic average below 65% in their final year or Honours degree.
  • Students pursuing research projects not approved by SARAO for 2027.
  • Applicants who fail to submit a signed supervisor agreement letter.

Documents you need to submit

  • South African identity document or foreign passport with permanent residence visa
  • Complete academic records for all university studies completed to date in a single PDF file
  • Signed supervisor agreement letter confirming project supervision
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of motivation
  • Two reference letters, including at least one written by a university lecturer

Upload clear copies of all required documents in PDF format with your online submission.

How to apply

  1. 1
    Review the list of approved SARAO research projects for 2027.
  2. 2
    Contact the relevant supervisor to discuss the project and assess your suitability.
  3. 3
    Obtain a signed agreement letter from the project supervisor.
  4. 4
    Read the official SARAO Master's scholarship guidelines document.
  5. 5
    Register and complete your application on the NRF Connect portal.
  6. 6
    Upload all compulsory supporting documents before submitting your application.

Contact your intended supervisor before applying to discuss research feasibility and supervision.

How you are selected

1
Applications are screened to confirm basic eligibility and academic criteria.
2
Eligible candidates are evaluated based on academic results, reference letters, and project alignment.
3
Successful applicants will receive formal notification regarding their award status.

Forms, downloads and links

SARAO Scholarship Application Portal

nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za

Application guidelines (PDF)

sarao.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Application-Guide-for-SARAO-Freestanding-Masters-Scholarships-for-2027.pdf

Supervisor contact details (PDF)

sarao.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Contact-Details-for-Supervisors-for-Approved-Postgraduate-Research-Projects-for-2027.pdf

Approved Master's research projects

sarao.ac.za/researchandstudy/approved-masters-research-projects-2027
Last verified: September 2026   ·   Category: Mba Postgraduate   ·   Reviewed by grantZA Editorial
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