Are you a South African student who wants to study engineering or science but worries about the cost? The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory is offering a big bursary that can cover most of your fees – but the deadline is only a few weeks away, so act now.
What the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship 2027 is
This scholarship supports South African citizens and permanent residents who are studying, or plan to study, selected engineering and science degrees in 2027. It is open to fresh first‑year students and to those already enrolled at a recognised South African university.
Who can apply – eligibility
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Matriculated (or currently completing Matric)
- Enrolled or planning to enrol at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
- Student in one of the approved qualifications (see list below)
- Meet the academic thresholds (see sections “Engineering requirements” and “Science requirements”)
Approved fields of study
- Computer Engineering (BEng)
- Computer Science and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics (BSc)
- Electrical Engineering (BEng)
- Electronic Engineering (BEng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng)
- Mechatronic Engineering (BEng)
- Physics and Astronomy / Astrophysics (BSc)
- Physics and Electronics (BSc)
- Physics and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics (BSc)
What you will receive
- R183 000 in scholarship funding per year
- A one‑off laptop grant of R13 000
- Funding is paid for the remaining years of your degree (see “Funding periods” below)
Funding periods
BEng students: up to 4 years – 4 years for first‑year, 3 years for second‑year, 2 years for third‑year, 1 year for fourth‑year students.
BSc students: up to 3 years – 3 years for first‑year, 2 years for second‑year, 1 year for third‑year students.
Academic requirements
Engineering programmes
- At least 70 % in Mathematics at Matric, or
- If already at university, a minimum overall average of 65 %.
Science programmes
- At least 70 % in both Mathematics and Physical Science at Matric, or
- If already at university, a minimum overall average of 65 %.
Documents you must submit
- Copy of South African ID (citizens) or passport & permanent‑resident visa (residents)
- Matric results – Grade 11 results and final Matric certificate (or completed Matric)
- Full university transcript (if you are already studying)
- Two reference letters – at least one from a teacher or lecturer
- Motivational letter – about 500 words explaining why you deserve the scholarship
All school and university results must be combined into one single PDF file. Make sure the PDF is clear and legible before uploading.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
All applications are submitted online through NRF Connect.
- Create or log into your profile on NRF Connect.
- Navigate to My Applications.
- Select Undergraduate and Diploma Scholarships.
- Choose SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship.
- Fill in the online form with your personal and academic details.
- Upload the single PDF with your results and the other supporting documents.
- Review everything carefully, then click Submit before 14 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start gathering documents early – requests for reference letters can take time.
- Ensure your motivational letter is clear, honest, and within the 500‑word limit.
- Double‑check that your PDF contains every required result and is easy to read.
- Confirm that at least one reference comes from a teacher or lecturer, as required.
- Keep a copy of your submitted application and confirmation email for your records.
- Read the official SARAO guidelines (available on the SARAO website) for any extra details.
Final reminders and contacts
The application window closes on 14 August 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
If you have questions about the bursary, contact Mr Mkhululi Jodwana at 011 268 3412 or email mjodwana@sarao.ac.za. Remember, all applications must still be filed through NRF Connect.
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection, but following these steps will give you the best possible chance. Good luck – your future in engineering or science could start here.
