AOS-SAMOS | Applications

How to Apply:

To apply for the AOS-SAMOS Masters degree at UCT, you have to complete both of the following applications (read carefully): 

1. First, you need to apply to the AOS-SAMOS programme: AOS-SAMOS application. Remember to submit your supporting documents in the form as one pdf, includng the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
• Proof of Highest Qualification
• Academic Transcripts
• Proof of Payment of UCT application fee 

2. Secondly, you need to 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.

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.

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 for 2026-2027 (more details on the SAMOS website, look out for the call on the NRF Connect System during late-July/early August 2025). 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.