SARAO Master's Scholarships for the 2025 Academic Year
The SARAO Master's Scholarships fund full-time master's research aligned with the scientific and technical goals of South Africa's radio astronomy initiatives, especially SKA and MeerKAT projects.
Funder: National Research Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2026: SARAO Master's Scholarships — applicant closing date | July 2026: SARAO Master's Scholarships — Designated Authority (DA) submission to NRF closing date | August 2026: SARAO Master's Scholarships — applicant closing date (alternate) | August 2026: SARAO Master's Scholarships — Designated Authority (DA) submission to NRF closing date (alternate)
Funding Amounts: R182,836/year (Full Cost of Study, South Africans/PRs) or R126,836/year (Partial Cost of Study, international/other); max 2 years; plus once-off R10,000 device allowance (FCS only)
Summary: Supports full-time master's students pursuing research aligned with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), with priority for SKA/MeerKAT-related topics.
Key Information: Only online applications via NRF Connect; strict eligibility on age, academic record, and research alignment.
Description
The SARAO Master's Scholarships provide financial support for master's-level postgraduate studies directly linked to the scientific and technical objectives of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), including research relevant to the SKA and MeerKAT radio telescopes. The program is administered by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and is part of South Africa's broader strategy to develop human capacity in radio astronomy and related fields. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis, with awards available to both South African citizens/permanent residents and eligible applicants from select African countries.
