The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) has officially opened applications for its 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship Programme, offering financial support to talented students pursuing careers in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, and astronomy.
The scholarship aims to develop South Africa’s next generation of scientists and engineers by funding undergraduate studies at recognised higher education institutions.
Successful applicants may receive funding worth up to R183,000 per year, together with a once-off laptop grant of R13,000, allowing students to focus on their studies while preparing for careers in science, technology, engineering, and innovation.
Applications close on 14 August 2026.
Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Sponsor | South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) |
| Scholarship Type | Undergraduate Scholarship |
| Study Level | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Annual Scholarship Value | Up to R183,000 |
| Laptop Grant | R13,000 (Once-Off) |
| Closing Date | 14 August 2026 |
About SARAO
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is South Africa’s national facility responsible for radio astronomy research and infrastructure. SARAO operates world-class scientific facilities, including the MeerKAT radio telescope, and plays a leading role in the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.
The organisation supports the development of highly skilled scientists, engineers, and researchers through scholarships, postgraduate funding, and research opportunities.
About the Undergraduate Scholarship
The SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship supports academically talented students who intend to study or are already studying approved Engineering and Science qualifications at accredited South African universities.
The programme aims to strengthen South Africa’s science, engineering, and technology skills pipeline while helping students achieve academic success without unnecessary financial barriers.
Fields of Study Covered
Scholarships are available for the following undergraduate programmes:
Engineering
- Computer Engineering (BEng)
- Electrical Engineering (BEng)
- Electronic Engineering (BEng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng)
- Mechatronic Engineering (BEng)
Science
- Computer Science and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics (BSc)
- Physics and Astronomy / Astrophysics (BSc)
- Physics and Electronics (BSc)
- Physics and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics (BSc)
Scholarship Value
Successful applicants may receive:
- Up to R183,000 in annual scholarship funding.
- Once-off laptop grant of R13,000.
The scholarship assists students with their academic studies while providing essential learning resources.
Scholarship Duration
Funding is available for the remaining duration of an eligible undergraduate qualification.
Bachelor of Engineering
- First-Year Students – Up to 4 years
- Second-Year Students – Up to 3 years
- Third-Year Students – Up to 2 years
- Fourth-Year Students – 1 year
Bachelor of Science
- First-Year Students – Up to 3 years
- Second-Year Students – Up to 2 years
- Third-Year Students – 1 year
Continued funding is subject to the scholarship conditions and satisfactory academic progress.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Be currently in Grade 12 or have already completed Matric.
- Intend studying or currently be studying one of the approved undergraduate qualifications.
- Study at a recognised South African higher education institution.
Engineering Applicants
Applicants must have:
- At least 70% in Mathematics in Matric,
OR
- An overall university average of 65% or higher.
Science Applicants
Applicants must have:
- At least 70% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences in Matric,
OR
- A university average of 65% or higher.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear copies of:
- South African ID (or passport and permanent residence documents where applicable).
- Grade 11 final results (for current Grade 12 learners).
- Latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Matric).
- Matric certificate (if already completed Grade 12).
- Full university academic record (if currently studying).
- Two reference letters (one from a teacher or lecturer).
- Motivation letter of approximately 500 words explaining why you should receive the scholarship.
Applicants should combine all school or university academic results into one PDF document before uploading.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Recipients will benefit from:
- Significant financial support.
- Laptop funding.
- Reduced financial pressure during studies.
- Opportunity to pursue careers in science and engineering.
- Support from one of South Africa’s leading scientific organisations.
- Increased opportunities within the research and technology sectors.
Career Opportunities
Graduates supported by the scholarship may pursue careers in:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- Radio Astronomy
- Scientific Research
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Advanced Technology Development
Application Tips
To strengthen your application:
- Read the official scholarship guidelines before applying.
- Prepare your motivation letter carefully.
- Request your reference letters well in advance.
- Merge your academic records into a single PDF.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and legible.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official SARAO Online Scholarship Portal.
To apply:
- Create and complete your online profile.
- Navigate to My Applications.
- Select Undergraduate and Diploma Scholarships.
- Choose SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship 2027.
- Complete the online application and upload all required documents.
Applicants should read the official SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship Guidelines before submitting an application.
Closing Date
📅 Closing Date: 14 August 2026
Late applications are not expected to be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents who are in Grade 12 or already studying an approved undergraduate qualification.
2. Which qualifications are funded?
The scholarship supports selected Engineering and Science undergraduate degrees, including Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and related programmes.
3. How much is the scholarship worth?
Successful students may receive funding worth up to R183,000 per year, plus a once-off laptop grant of R13,000.
4. Is the scholarship available for all years of study?
Yes. Funding is available for eligible first-year through final-year undergraduate students, depending on the remaining duration of their qualification.
5. Are reference letters required?
Yes. Applicants must submit two reference letters, including one from a teacher or lecturer.
6. Can current university students apply?
Yes, provided they meet the academic requirements and are enrolled in one of the approved undergraduate programmes.
7. When do applications close?
Applications close on 14 August 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using information published by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) regarding the 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship Programme. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by SARAO. Applicants should verify all scholarship requirements, eligibility criteria, funding conditions, and application procedures through the official SARAO scholarship portal before applying.
Sources and References
- South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) – Undergraduate Scholarship Programme 2027
- SARAO Scholarship Guidelines
- National Research Foundation (NRF)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
