The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory is calling for applications to its 2027 undergraduate scholarship programme. The initiative targets South African citizens and permanent residents pursuing specific science and engineering degrees. Applications close on 14 August 2026.
The scholarship is available to both new university entrants and current students at accredited South African institutions. Financial support includes a substantial annual award and a once-off laptop grant.
Scholarship Programme Details
The SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship is designed to support students in selected engineering and science fields. The total value of the scholarship is R183,000 per year, with an additional R13,000 provided as a once-off laptop grant. The programme is open to those intending to study or already enrolled in approved qualifications at recognised South African universities.
Applicants must submit their applications online via the NRF Connect platform before the deadline. The scholarship is available for a range of degrees, including Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Astronomy, and related fields.
Eligibility Criteria And Academic Requirements
To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents and must be either in their final year of school or already studying at university. The scholarship is only available for specific undergraduate qualifications in science and engineering.
Engineering applicants are required to have achieved at least 70% for Mathematics in Matric, or a minimum 65% overall average if already at university. Science applicants must have at least 70% in both Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, or a 65% university average. Applicants are reminded that “Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.”
Duration Of Funding And Supported Programmes
The duration of the scholarship depends on the applicant’s current year of study. For Bachelor of Engineering students, funding may be awarded for up to four years for first-year students, decreasing by one year for each subsequent year of study. Bachelor of Science students may receive funding for up to three years, depending on their academic standing.
Applicants must be enrolled in or planning to study one of the approved programmes. These include Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Astronomy, and related combinations.
Application Process And Required Documents
All applications must be submitted online through the NRF Connect platform. Applicants are required to upload a single PDF containing all academic records, including Grade 11 and Matric results for school leavers, or a full university academic record for current students. Two reference letters are compulsory, with at least one from a teacher or lecturer.
A motivational letter of approximately 500 words must also be included, explaining why the applicant should be awarded the scholarship. The guidelines specify, “Applicants should follow the official scholarship guidelines when preparing the motivation.” Applicants are advised to ensure all documents are clear and complete before submission.
Important Dates And Contact Information
The closing date for applications is 14 August 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. For any queries regarding the scholarship, applicants can contact Mr Mkhululi Jodwana at 011 268 3412 or via email at [email protected]. However, all applications must be completed and submitted through the official online platform.
Applicants are encouraged to review the official SARAO guidelines before applying to ensure all requirements are met. The scholarship aims to support the next generation of scientists and engineers in South Africa’s growing radio astronomy sector.