Stellenbosch University Scholarship 2026: Fully funded MSc in Machine Learning & AI for Africans
Stellenbosch University Scholarship (ML and AI)
A groundbreaking opportunity has emerged for African data science enthusiasts: Stellenbosch University is offering fully funded scholarship for its MSc in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (ML & AI) in 2026. Covering tuition and living costs, this programme aims to empower top-tier graduates from across Africa.
What the Scholarship Covers
Selected students from any African country will receive:
- Full tuition coverage for the one-year MSc (Jan–Dec 2026)
- Access to the state‑of‑the‑art ML & AI laboratories on Stellenbosch campus
This makes it one of the most generous AI scholarships available on the continent.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Ideal candidates are those who have:
- A four-year Bachelor’s in Engineering, or
- An Honours degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Mathematical Statistics at NQF Level 8
- An NQF level 8 qualification deemed equivalent to the above, in a field closely linked to ML and AI.
- Existing and demonstrable proficiency in Python or an equivalent programming language, and be comfortable with numerical linear algebra, vector calculus, basic probability theory and statistics.
- (Recommended) taken an introductory ML course
About the MSc in ML & AI Programme
- Duration: One year (January to December 2026)
- Structure: Four core modules, six electives, and an AI/ML research project
- Mode: In‑person at Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Includes mentorship and guidance from Prof. Willie Brink, the programme coordinator
Application Deadline & Timeline
Early-bird applications: Submit before 15 August 2025 to be considered for a full scholarship
Final application deadline: 31 October 2025 for general admission
Notification timeline:
- Early applications answered by September 2025
- Later applications responded to by November 2025
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated on:
- Academic excellence and background in ML/AI related disciplines
- Demonstrated programming ability (Python) and quantitative skills
- Quality of motivation letter and research interest statement
- Availability of space within the programme at Stellenbosch
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What You Need To Apply
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- Application Form
- A comprehensive CV
- A letter of motivation
- A statement of research interest
- The letter of motivation can be short (1 page), on why you want to complete this programme, what you hope to get out of it, and what you might want to do after the programme.
- The statement of research interest can be a short (1 page) letter on any specific interests you currently have within the fields of ML and AI.
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step
- Visit the SUNStudent portal via Stellenbosch University
- Register and select: Faculty of Science → Postgraduate → MSc ML & AI
- Complete your profile and upload the necessary documents
- Submit your application before 15 August 2025 for scholarship eligibility; closes 31 October 2025
- Await notification in September (early) or November (final)
Why This Scholarship Matters
- Bridging Africa’s AI talent gap: Trains future AI leaders on the continent
- Research-driven excellence: Offers access to cutting-edge labs and faculty
- Economic impact: Prepares scholars to apply ML/AI solutions in finance, health, governance, and more
The Stellenbosch University 2026 MSc in Machine Learning and AI scholarship is a rare fully funded opportunity for African students passionate about shaping the continent’s technological future. With extensive funding, expert mentorship, and a comprehensive curriculum, this scholarship can act as a springboard into global AI innovation.
