Master in Ocean Sciences Scholarship 2027 in South Africa
Master in Ocean Sciences Scholarship offers an interdisciplinary Master’s in South Africa for 2027 with Erasmus+ support and 30 places. Apply by 31 August 2026.

Overview
The Master in Ocean Sciences Scholarship (AOS-SAMOS) is an interdisciplinary postgraduate programme designed to train ocean professionals across marine biology, oceanography, data analysis, law, and sustainability. The 2027 cohort accepts up to 30 students. The initiative unites nine South African universities, national research institutions, and European academic partners, backed by the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education framework co-funded by the European Union.
Coursework is hosted at the Nelson Mandela University Ocean Sciences Campus in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, while entry management runs through the University of Cape Town and minor dissertations take place at participating partner institutions.
Benefits
- Partially funded opportunities and access to information regarding potential financial support such as DSTI-NRF Master’s Student Funding.
- Training in regional marine ecosystems, whole-systems sustainability approaches, and advanced analytical and computational tools.
- Participation in multidisciplinary teams using emerging marine research technologies and environmental change monitoring.
Eligibility
- Holds a four-year Bachelor’s degree containing a research project, an Honours degree, or an equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification.
- The qualifying credential must feature a 30-credit research component and align with the AOS-SAMOS curriculum.
- Achieved an average of at least 65% in science subjects, or above 70% in other pertinent subjects, along with a strong academic record and good numeracy skills.
- Demonstrated interest in marine science and provision of accepted English language proficiency evidence (such as an overall IELTS band of 7.0 with no component below 6.0 for international applicants).
How to Apply
Candidates must carefully review all entry requirements and submit their applications through the University of Cape Town’s designated system. A complete application package requires:
- A tailored CV of no more than two pages.
- Proof of the highest academic qualification and complete transcripts.
- A strong motivation letter detailing academic background, professional experience, and research interests.
- Preferred study stream selections and, where applying for specific funding, an identified prospective supervisor and research project.
Deadline
Applications for the 2027 cohort close on 31 August 2026, though candidates seeking separate DSTI-NRF funding must observe an internal deadline of 26 June 2026.
