The MSc in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is a one-year structured master’s scholarship programme at Stellenbosch University, designed for students with a strong mathematical and computational background. It will equip you with the fundamentals of ML and AI, plus a suite of sophisticated techniques and concepts at the research forefront of these fields.
Applications for 2026 are open!
When is the Application Deadline:
📅 October 31, 2025
🕐 Early applications are encouraged! First round selections take place in August/September 2025.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Tell Me About The Award:
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. The program is designed for individuals with strong mathematical and computational backgrounds and is delivered in-person on the Stellenbosch campus.
Read Also:
- UK visa and immigration webinar for international students 2025
- Australia Targets Over 250,000 Skilled Workers by 2030: Apply for Work Visas Now
- IgniteHer Bootcamp: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs for Growth and Innovation 2025 (Win a sponsored trip to Japan)
- Africa Agri-food Development Programme (AADP) 2025 for Africans: Apply Now
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
- Applied Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Mathematical Statistics
- Engineering (related disciplines)
Type:
🎓 Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship (Full-time or Part-time)
Who can Apply?
Applicants must have one of the following qualifications by the time of enrollment:
- 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
They must also have:
- 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 are Applicants Selected?
Selection is competitive and based on:
- Academic merit
- Relevance of background to ML/AI
- Quality of motivation and research interest letters
- Space availability in the program
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 All African countries
Where will the Award be Taken?
📍 Stellenbosch University, South Africa
How Many Awards?
Multiple full scholarships available (exact number not stated)What is the Benefit of the Award?
💰 Full financial support, including:
- Tuition fees
- Study-related expenses
- Possibly accommodation/living stipends (based on funding availability)
How Long Will the Award Last?
📆 One academic year (January – December 2026)
How to Apply:
- Go to the SUNStudent portal: https://student.sun.ac.za
- Create a profile 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
- Upload required documents:
- Comprehensive CV
- Letter of Motivation (1 page)
- Statement of Research Interest (1 page)
- Submit your application before October 31, 2025
- If you apply before August 15, you will also be considered for a full scholarship
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 https://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/science/ml-ai
Frequently asked questions Stellenbosch University MSc in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
Are there scholarships available for this programme?
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 also be considered for a scholarship. Successful applicants will be notified in September.
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 2025. Can I still apply for the 2026 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 2026.
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.
