SAAO Bursary Application Form

SAAO Bursary Application Form 2022/2023 | How to Apply

Last Updated on March 23, 2022

SAAO Bursary Application Form

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is providing 10 Bursaries valued at R20 000 each. The SAAO Bursary Programme is aimed at financially needy students in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa.

The SAAO Bursary Programme will cover the costs associated with textbooks, travel, food, computers and other related study costs. The SAAO Bursary Programme is open to First and Second year prospective applicants studying Tourism, Science, Mathematics or Engineering at an accredited South African Tertiary Institution.

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is based in Observatory, Cape Town and was formed in 1820.  The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is South Africa’s leading Astronomical Institute. The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) runs and manages the largest telescope in the Southern Hemisphere, while simultaneously pursuing critical research in both astrophysics and astronomy.

The National Research Foundation, led by South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation runs the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and its related projects. This includes numerous installations and research stations throughout the country.

Applications received after the closing date will not be considered for the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Bursary Programme.

Prospective applicants who miss the cut-off date will have an opportunity to apply for the SAAO Bursary Programme in 2022.

About SAAO Bursary

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is providing 10 Bursaries valued at R20 000 to financially needy students. These students should be based in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. The SAAO Bursary Programme is open to students studying:

  • Tourism
  • Science
  • Mathematics
  • Engineering

Please note that Prospective Applicants should be studying/registered to study at an accredited South African Tertiary Institution. The SAAO Bursary Programme is open to students in their First and Second Year of studies.

SAAO Bursary Application Form – Requirements and Eligibility

Kindly note that prospective applicants need to satisfy all of the requirements of the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Bursary in order to be considered for the Programme:

  • Applications are open to South African students and permanent residents ONLY.
  • Applicants should have completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa.
  • Applications are open to students studying Tourism, Science, Mathematics or Engineering.
  • Applications are open to students studying at an accredited South African Tertiary Institution.
  • Applications are open to Students with a yearly household income of less than R600 000.   
  • Applications are open to students entering their First or Second year of studies. 

Please note that failure to adhere to the requirements of theSouth African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Bursary Programme will result in a rejected application.

What does the SAAO Bursary Cover?

The SAAO Bursary Programme will provide successful applicants with financial assistance valued at R20 000. This will help pay for the costs associated with the above-mentioned Degrees. This will take the form of financial assistance for costs relating to:

  • Textbooks
  • Travel
  • Food
  • Computers/Laptops
  • Various other study related costs.

SAAO Bursary Application Form – How to Apply

Kindly note that prospective applicants can apply for the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Bursary Programme by sending the following documentation to the attached email address – saao200bursary@saoo.ac.za

Prospective First Year Beneficiaries should attach:

  • An application letter that includes specific details such as the applicant’s: student number, Degree, yearly household income.
  • Prospective students should include a letter of motivation.
  • Proof of acceptance at an accredited South African Tertiary Institution.
  • A certified copy of their NSC results.
  • Prospective Second Year beneficiaries should attach:
  • An application letter that includes specific details such as the applicant’s: student number, Degree, yearly household income.
  • Prospective students should include a letter of motivation.
  • A certified copy of the University Academic History.

Failure to adhere to the application requirements could result in the application being disregarded.

SAAO Bursary Application Deadline

Please note that bursary applications for the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Bursary Programme will close on the 15 of May 2021.

Contact Information

Please note that the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) may be directly contacted for all relevant bursary related queries.

  • E-mail:  saao200bursary@saoo.ac.za

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) reserves the right to award its bursaries within its Bursary Programme.


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