AOS-SAMOS | Applications

How to Apply:

To apply for the AOS-SAMOS Masters degree at UCT, you will need to follow the steps below (read carefully): 

*Apply to UCT via their online application system: UCT application. Note that online applications for UCT open in April/May for the following year. Please refer to the UCT website for details on the UCT application process.

IMPORTANT: Remember to submit your supporting documents as part of your UCT application. Make sure you include the following (you can combine it into one pdf):

• Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
• Proof of Highest Qualification
• Academic Transcripts
• Proof of Payment of UCT application fee
• Motivational letter outlining your academic background, relevant experience, reasons for applying to AOS-SAMOS, and research interests, including any identified supervisor and project. If you do not have a natural sciences background, you need to outline how you plan to compensate for knowledge gaps in natural science (including numerical) modules

Selection process of AOS-SAMOS Course in UCT Application

1. In your application to UCT, make sure to select the following for Academic Qualification: "Master of Science (by coursework & dissertation)(90 Crsewrk/90 diss)", including the Specialisation or Major: this depends on which stream you choose, you need to select your first and second choice (either "Applied Ocean Sciences (Applied Marine Biology) or Applied Ocean Sciences (Operational Oceanography). See the figure below for a more detailed look on what you need to enter in your UCT Application, or read more details on the AOS-SAMOS Course Structure webpage. 

   

2. All students who are applying for the SAMOS NRF Bursary, must identify a possible supervisor and research project prior to their application. Therefore, eligible students from one of the partner universities are encouraged to contact the reference person at their university. Please visit the SAMOS Research thematics page for a list of expertise and potential research thematics available across the partner universities. Note: When contacting a prospective supervisor, applicants must provide them with:
   ● A certified or official academic transcript
   ● A reference letter from the current supervisor, course convenor, or Head of Department addressing:
   ○ Current academic performance
   ○ Capacity for independent, self-directed research work
   ○ Reliability and professionalism
   ○ Any disciplinary record, including academic dishonesty findings or formal warnings
   ○ The referee’s assessment of the candidate’s readiness for master’s-level study
   ○ Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment and intensive coursework programme

3. International students must also contact the International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO) as they will be able to advise on all the necessary documentation required to study in South Africa and any other related queries.
4. Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered.  

South African students and permanent residents can apply for the Full Cost of Study (FCS) SAMOS NRF bursary and International and national students can apply for the Partial Cost of Study (PCS) SAMOS NRF Bursary (more details on the SAMOS website, look out for the call on the NRF Connect System during late-July/early August 2026). Please find more information in the Costs, funding and accommodation page. Keeping in mind, that eligible students applying for the SAMOS NRF bursaries must identify a possible supervisor and a research project prior to their application. Therefore, eligible students from one of the partner universities are encouraged to contact the reference person of their university. Please visit the SAMOS Research thematics page for a list of expertise and potential research projects available across the partner universities.