SALT-SAAO Scholarship South Africa 2025

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is a leading national institute dedicated to astronomy and astrophysics research.

Established in 1820, SAAO fosters scientific discovery by providing exceptional facilities and resources to aspiring young scientists.

Beyond research, SAAO actively promotes public interest in astronomy through outreach programs and by sharing their exciting discoveries.

As part of the National Research Foundation of South Africa, SAAO is committed to nurturing the next generation of astronomers within the country.

About the SALT-SAAO Scholarship

The SALT-SAAO Scholarship supports Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in astronomy and instrumentation, focusing on areas like:

  1. Observational and theoretical aspects of stellar and extragalactic astronomy
  2. Astronomical instrumentation
  3. Computer modeling

The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover:

  1. Annual stipend: R180,000 for MSc and R190,000 for PhD
  2. Tuition fees
  3. Travel and equipment support
  4. On-site accommodation (potentially)

SAAO awards a maximum of two scholarships at each study level (MSc and PhD).

Scholarship duration aligns with program length: two years for MSc and three years for PhD. SAAO reserves the right to withhold awards if suitable candidates aren’t found.

SALT-SAAO Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the SALT-SAAO Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Citizenship: While South African citizens and permanent residents are preferred, applications from all nationalities are welcome.
  2. Degree Program: You must be eligible to register for an MSc or PhD in Astrophysics starting in 2024.
  3. University Eligibility: You must be eligible to study at a South African university.
  4. Academic Background: A strong background in astrophysics is mandatory.
  5. Prior Qualifications: MSc applicants must have a BSc Honours degree (or equivalent), while PhD applicants must hold an MSc degree or be approved for a PhD upgrade.
  6. Completion Time: You must be able to complete your studies within the stipulated timeframe (two years for MSc and three years for PhD).
  7. Project Selection: You must choose a specific research project and discuss your application with the designated supervisor beforehand.

SALT-SAAO Scholarship Application Requirements

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the SALT-SAAO Scholarship by submitting the following documents (incomplete applications will be disqualified):

  1. Cover Letter: Briefly introduce yourself, highlight your passion for astronomy, and explain why you’re a strong candidate for the scholarship.
  2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide your academic history, research experience (if any), relevant skills, and awards/achievements.
  3. Academic Transcripts: Include official transcripts from all universities previously attended.

There is no separate application form. Simply submit the listed documents in a single PDF file.

Two referees must independently submit reference letters directly to SAAO via scholarship@saao.ac.za.

The email subject line should clearly state the applicant’s name.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically to scholarship@saao.ac.za.

Remember to include the following details in the email subject line:

  1. Your Surname
  2. Supervisor’s Surname (of the project you’re applying for)
  3. Degree Level (MSc or PhD)

How to Contact

For any inquiries related to the SALT-SAAO Scholarship program, please contact the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) directly: scholarship@saao.ac.za.

The application deadline for the 2025 intake is yet to be announced. Keep checking the SAAO website for updates.