Astronomy in Africa Scholarships 2024 for African Students (Fully-funded)

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is inviting applications from highly intellectual African students for Astronomy in Africa Scholarships. The scholarships is aimed at allowing excellent candidates to undertake a two-year Master of Science (MSc) degree in South Africa starting in 2023.

In anticipation of the 32^nd General Assembly, the National Organising Committee of the IAU GA2024 seeks to award high impact “Astronomy in Africa” scholarships to eligible African candidates that aligns with the hosting of this historical event.

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Key Scholarship Details

These are some of the key details about the ongoing Astronomy in Africa Scholarships

• Scholarship Sponsor(s): International Astronomical Union (IAU)
• Host Institution(s): Recognised South African Universities
• Study Level: Master of Science (MSc)
• Scholarship Worth: Fully-funded
• Number of Awards: Several
• Nationality: African Students

Details About the Astronomy in Africa Scholarships

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) will host its 32^nd General Assembly in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2024 (GA2024). This is the first time in the 100+ year history of the IAU that the General Assembly will be held in Africa, which provides a prime opportunity to showcase the cutting-edge research infrastructure and excellent talent in the science area on the continent.

Applicants will be shortlisted based on academic grades, quality of motivation, suitability for research as assessed through reference letter and CV, and the associated letter of support from the potential supervisor. Diversity and regional representation will be taken into account during the shortlisting process. Preference will be given to non-South African applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for the Astronomy in Africa Scholarships

To be eligible for Astronomy in Africa Scholarships for African Students, applicants are expected to meet the following conditions:

• Candidates from any African country are eligible to apply for Astronomy in Africa scholarships.
• Applicants must be eligible to register for an MSc degree at a South African university specialising in astrophysics/astronomy. 
• Candidates must have liaised with potential supervisors from recognised South African universities.
• Potential supervisors must provide an accompanying letter of support for the candidate, which includes a brief statement of the proposed research project

Benefits of the Scholarship

All successful applicants for Astronomy in Africa Scholarships will receive the following benefits:

• International student fees
• One international return flight
• Visa costs
• Medical insurance,
• Accommodation, and
• Stipend

In addition, scholarship recipients will benefit from the opportunity to volunteer at the General Assembly 2024, giving them an opportunity to interact with the global astronomy community.

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How to Apply

Interested applicants for Astronomy in Africa Scholarships for African Students should comply with the following steps:

• Apply online here
• Arrange to have one reference letter to be sent directly to info@astronomy2024.org, by the application deadline, and with your name in the subject line.
• Candidates must submit a motivation and upload a CV (maximum of 2-pages, 12-pt font), recent academic transcripts and a scan of their undergraduate degree certificate.
• Candidates must upload a letter of support from their potential supervisor. The letter must include a brief statement of the proposed research project. 

Visit the Official Website for Further Details

Application Deadline: October 07, 2022