The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) has opened applications for its 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship Programme, giving academically talented students the opportunity to pursue engineering and science degrees with substantial financial support.
The scholarship is aimed at South African students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and innovation. Successful applicants can receive funding of up to R183,000 per academic year, together with a once-off laptop grant of R13,000.
Whether you are currently completing Matric or already studying at university, the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship can help reduce the financial burden of higher education while preparing you for careers in research, engineering, astronomy, and advanced technology.
Applications close on 14 August 2026.
Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship |
| Sponsor | South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Study Level | Undergraduate Degree |
| Scholarship Value | Up to R183,000 per year |
| Laptop Grant | R13,000 (Once-Off) |
| Study Fields | Engineering & Science |
| Closing Date | 14 August 2026 |
About SARAO
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is South Africa’s national research facility responsible for radio astronomy infrastructure and scientific research.
SARAO manages internationally recognised projects such as the MeerKAT Radio Telescope and contributes to the global Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project. Through its scholarship programmes, the organisation invests in developing highly skilled engineers, scientists, and technology professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s future knowledge economy.
About the Undergraduate Scholarship
The SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship supports students pursuing selected undergraduate qualifications in engineering and science at recognised South African universities.
The programme aims to develop highly skilled graduates who will contribute to research, innovation, engineering, and technological advancement in South Africa.
In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship helps students focus on their studies by covering major educational expenses and providing essential learning resources.
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship supports the following undergraduate programmes:
Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Computer Science and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics
- Physics and Astronomy / Astrophysics
- Physics and Electronics
- Physics and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants may receive:
- Funding worth up to R183,000 per academic year
- Once-off R13,000 laptop grant
- Financial support to complete an undergraduate qualification
- Opportunity to study at an accredited South African university
- Support from one of South Africa’s leading scientific research organisations
The exact funding package is determined according to the scholarship conditions.
Scholarship Duration
Funding is awarded for the remaining years of an eligible undergraduate qualification.
Bachelor of Engineering
| Current Study Year | Funding Duration |
|---|---|
| First Year | Up to 4 Years |
| Second Year | Up to 3 Years |
| Third Year | Up to 2 Years |
| Fourth Year | 1 Year |
Bachelor of Science
| Current Study Year | Funding Duration |
|---|---|
| First Year | Up to 3 Years |
| Second Year | Up to 2 Years |
| Third Year | 1 Year |
Continuation of funding is subject to satisfactory academic performance and compliance with scholarship requirements.
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.
- Be registered or planning to register at an accredited South African university.
Engineering Applicants
Applicants must have achieved:
- At least 70% in Mathematics in Matric,
OR
- A minimum overall university average of 65%.
Science Applicants
Applicants must have achieved:
- At least 70% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences in Matric,
OR
- A minimum overall university average of 65%.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload:
- South African ID document (or passport and permanent residence permit if applicable).
- Grade 11 final results and latest Grade 12 results (for current Matric learners).
- Matric certificate (if already completed Grade 12).
- Full university academic record (if currently studying).
- Two reference letters (one from a teacher or lecturer).
- A motivation letter of approximately 500 words explaining why you deserve the scholarship.
Applicants should combine all academic records into one PDF document before uploading.
Skills and Career Opportunities
Graduates supported by the SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship may pursue careers in:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Computer Science
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- Physics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Scientific Research
- Software Development
- Data Science
- Advanced Technology
- Space Science
Why Apply?
The SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship offers students the opportunity to:
- Receive significant financial assistance.
- Study at a recognised South African university.
- Obtain a laptop for academic use.
- Focus on academic success without excessive financial pressure.
- Prepare for careers in engineering, science, and technology.
- Become part of South Africa’s growing research and innovation community.
Application Tips
To submit a strong application:
- Read the official scholarship guidelines carefully.
- Write a well-structured motivation letter.
- Request your reference letters early.
- Ensure your academic records are complete and clearly scanned.
- Upload all required documents before submitting your application.
- Apply before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official SARAO Online Scholarship System.
Applicants should:
- Create an online profile.
- Select My Applications.
- Choose Undergraduate and Diploma Scholarships.
- Select SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship 2027.
- Complete the application and upload all required supporting documents.
Applicants are advised to read the official SARAO Undergraduate Scholarship Guidelines before applying.
Closing Date
Applications close on 14 August 2026.
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents who are currently in Grade 12 or studying an approved undergraduate degree.
2. Which qualifications qualify?
Approved BEng and BSc degrees in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Electronics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, and related disciplines.
3. How much is the scholarship worth?
Successful students may receive funding worth up to R183,000 per year, together with a R13,000 once-off laptop grant.
4. Can university students apply?
Yes. Current undergraduate students who meet the academic requirements are encouraged to apply.
5. Are reference letters compulsory?
Yes. Applicants must submit two reference letters, including one from a teacher or lecturer.
6. Is the scholarship renewable?
Funding is awarded for the remaining duration of the qualification, subject to continued academic performance and compliance with scholarship conditions.
7. When do applications close?
Applications close on 14 August 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using publicly available information released by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) regarding its 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship Programme. The information is intended to help prospective applicants understand the scholarship and application requirements. Applicants should consult the official SARAO scholarship portal and guidelines for the most up-to-date information before submitting an application.
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)
