The Stellenbosch University Scholarship offers a fully funded opportunity for African students to pursue a one-year structured Master’s degree in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. This scholarship covers tuition fees, study-related expenses, and possibly accommodation or living stipends based on funding availability.
Stellenbosch University is a leading research institution in South Africa, known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and technology. The MSc in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is designed to equip students with advanced skills in ML and AI, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, and research.
Stellenbosch University Scholarship Benefits
- Full financial support including tuition fees
- Study-related expenses
- Possibly accommodation/living stipends (based on funding availability)
Stellenbosch University Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- An Honours degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Mathematical Statistics
- A four-year Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
- An NQF level 8 qualification in a related field
- Demonstrated proficiency in Python or an equivalent programming language
- A solid grasp of numerical linear algebra, vector calculus, and basic probability/statistics
- (Recommended) Completion of an introductory ML course
How to Apply for Stellenbosch University Scholarship
- Go to the applicant portal on SUNStudent, create a profile if you haven’t already, and log in.
- Click on ‘Programme selection’. Faculty: ‘Faculty of Science – Stellenbosch’, Programme type: ‘Postgraduate’, Programme: ‘MSc (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence)’, full-time or part-time.
- Complete the required information from the menus on the left panel.
- Under ‘Upload documents’ you will be asked for: a comprehensive CV, a letter of motivation, and a statement of research interest.
- Note that you do not need to identify an academic supervisor. Accepted students will have an opportunity after the start of the programme to speak to potential supervisors and indicate research project preferences.
- If you are happy with the terms, submit your application. Note that there may be a small application fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Stellenbosch University Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Are there scholarships available for this programme?
Yes, we usually have a small number of full scholarships available for students from Africa. If you complete an application for the programme before 15 August, you will be considered for the scholarships that we manage. Also keep an eye out for external scholarships such as the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships.
When will you notify me of the outcome of my application?
If you apply before 15 August, we will notify you in September. If you apply between 15 August and 31 October, we will notify you in November.
What is the start date of the programme?
The programme starts mid-January. Exact dates will be communicated to successful applicants. Note that the programme requires one year of intensive full-time studies. The part-time option allows a student to complete the modules and research project over two years.
How does the part-time option work?
All students must complete 4 core modules, 6 elective modules, and a research project. Part-time students can decide, in consultation with the programme coordinator, how best to split their modules and project over two years. One way might be to complete half of the modules in year 1, and the other half plus the project in year 2.
How many contact hours would there be in a typical week?
Each module might have two or three contact sessions (lectures or pracs) per week, on Stellenbosch campus, and full-time students would typically have two modules at a time. The exact schedule will be communicated to successful candidates.
Can I do the programme remotely or online?
No. The programme is presented only in person at Stellenbosch University.
Can you check whether I meet the admission requirements?
Due to large volumes of enquiries, we won’t be able to perform informal pre-approvals. If you think you might meet the requirements, you are most welcome to submit an application. Your qualifications will be evaluated against the South African system.
I will only complete my current degree at the end of 2026. Can I still apply for the 2027 intake?
Yes! We understand that some students are still busy with their degrees. You can submit an application with the information and transcripts you have on hand. There will be a ‘conditionally accepted’ option, that may admit a student on the condition that they will have completed their degrees by January 2027.
I am a research-masters or PhD student at Stellenbosch University. Can I attend some of the lectures?
Yes! Contact us to find out how.
What is the application deadline for the 2027 intake?
Applications for the 2027 intake close on 31 October 2026. A first round of selections and notifications will happen in August/September, so apply early if you can. Space is limited.
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