South African Radio Astronomy Observatory

SARAO Honours Scholarship

Postgraduate 31 August 2026

Freestanding Honours scholarship for BSc Honours studies in astronomy, astrophysics, computer science, mathematics and physics.

Funding details

Fields covered: Astronomy, Astrophysics, Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics.
Coverage value: R190 000 scholarship value. Students may also apply for a once-off laptop grant of R15 000.
Renewal: Awarded for one year, with two years of funding available for students accepted into the NASSP Extended Honours in Astronomy course.
How to apply: Apply online through NRF Connect and select the SARAO Honours Scholarship under NRF Postgraduate Scholarships.

South African citizen or permanent resident, or citizen of Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia or Zambia
Completed a BSc degree in 2025 or completing one in 2026 in an eligible field combination
Minimum 65% average in BSc degree studies
Studying or intending to study towards a BSc Honours degree in one of the listed fields
Studying or intending to study at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa

Overall average 65% average

SARAO Honours applicants need at least 65% average in BSc degree studies.

ID document, if a South African citizen
Passport and permanent residence visa, if a permanent resident
University academic record from the start of the degree and all other degrees completed to date
Updated Curriculum Vitae
Motivational letter
Two letters of reference, one from a university lecturer