Chart Your Course to the Stars: The ESA–SGAC Scholarship 2025 is Your Launchpad

The ESA–SGAC Scholarship 2025 Now Open for Emerging Space Leaders is more than just a funding opportunity; it’s a golden ticket for passionate students and young professionals to take their place on the global space stage. If you’ve ever dreamed of shaping the future of space exploration and technology, this scholarship, born from a powerful collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), could be your defining moment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to craft a compelling application and join a network of visionaries dedicated to making a difference from space.

For many aspiring space leaders, the financial and network barriers to entering the international space community can feel immense. I’ve spoken with countless students who have brilliant ideas but lack the platform to share them. This scholarship is designed to dismantle those barriers. It offers not just financial support, but a seat at the table where the future of space is being decided.

ESA–SGAC Scholarship 2025 Now Open for Emerging Space Leaders

Applying for a prestigious scholarship like the ESA–SGAC Scholarship 2025 can feel daunting, but every great journey begins with a single step. This is your opportunity to lend your voice to a cause of global importance. Believe in your ideas, articulate your passion, and present your vision with confidence. The space community needs diverse voices and bold new perspectives—it needs you. Start preparing your application today, and you might just find yourself on a plane to Sydney, ready to shape the future.

What is the ESA–SGAC Scholarship All About?

At its core, the ESA–SGAC Scholarship is an investment in the next generation of space pioneers. It seeks to empower and amplify the voices of students and young professionals from emerging countries, providing them with an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the global conversation on space.

This year’s theme is profoundly relevant: “Shaping a Resilient Future for Earth from Space.” The scholarship challenges applicants to think critically about how space technologies can address Earth’s most pressing sustainability challenges. The winner receives a grant of €2000 to attend two of the most prestigious events in the space calendar:

• 23rd Space Generation Congress (SGC): September 25–27, 2025
• 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC): September 29 – October 3, 2025

Both events will be held in the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia, offering a backdrop for innovation, networking, and collaboration.

Are You Eligible to Apply? Your Checklist for Success

Before you start storyboarding your videos, let’s ensure you meet the fundamental requirements. The eligibility criteria are specific, designed to identify candidates who can gain the most from this experience.

To be a successful applicant, you must:

• Be an SGAC Member: Membership is free and open to students and young professionals aged 18-35. If you’re not a member yet, you can register on the SGAC website.
• Meet the Age Requirement: You must be between 18 and 35 years old by October 3, 2025.
• Nationality and Residence: You must hold nationality or be a resident of an ESA Member State or Associate Member State. These include Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Slovenia.
• Be from an Emerging Country: The scholarship specifically aims to support individuals from emerging nations within the eligible countries list.
• Apply Individually: Group or team applications are not accepted for this scholarship.

Crafting Your Winning Application

The application process is unique and modern, focusing on your ideas and communication skills rather than just academic transcripts. Here’s how you can make your submission stand out.

Step 1: Understand the Core Task

Your primary submission will consist of two short videos and your curriculum vitae (CV). The goal is to articulate your vision for a sustainable future enabled by space technology.

Step 2: The Two-Minute Video Challenge

This is your moment to shine. You will need to create and submit two one-minute videos. Remember, the judges are looking for the content and clarity of your message, not Hollywood-level production value.

Video 1: Your Big Idea (1 minute)

• The Prompt: “If you could address one aspect of Earth’s sustainability using space technologies or applications, what would you tackle first to build global resilience — and why?”
• My Advice: Be specific. Instead of saying “climate change,” focus on a niche area like “using satellite data to optimize water usage in drought-stricken agricultural regions.” This shows depth of thought. Your “why” is crucial; connect it to a real-world problem you are passionate about solving.

Video 2: Your Persuasive Pitch (1 minute)

• The Prompt: “Why is this your most urgent priority, and how would you convince decision-makers to act on it now?”
• My Advice: This is about impact and influence. Think like a leader. Present a clear, concise argument. Use strong, active language. For example, “I would convince leaders by presenting a clear cost-benefit analysis showing that a small investment in this satellite technology now can save billions in disaster relief later.”

Technical Video Requirements:

• Record in a horizontal (landscape) orientation.
• Ensure a minimum resolution of 720p.
• Your face should be visible, and you should be speaking clearly.
• Upload your videos to YouTube as “unlisted” and provide the links in the application form.

Step 3: Perfecting Your CV

Your CV should be a professional and concise summary of your academic and professional journey.

• Length: Maximum of two pages.
• Required Information: Must include your date of birth and a professional headshot photo.
• Focus: Highlight experiences relevant to the space sector, leadership roles, and any projects related to sustainability or technology. Tailor it to the scholarship’s theme.

Step 4: The Final Submission

Once your videos are uploaded and your CV is polished, you will submit everything through the official Scholarships Submission Form. Double-check all your information and links before hitting “submit.”

What Happens After You Apply?

The selection process is swift, so you won’t be left waiting for long.

• Application Deadline: July 20, 2025 (23:59 GMT)
• Evaluation Period: July 21 – 27, 2025
• Winner Announcement: August 1, 2025

The selected winner will have a set of responsibilities, which are part of the incredible experience. These include attending the entire SGC and IAC, supporting the SGAC team during the events, and submitting a report and video about your experience afterward. This is your chance to not just attend, but to actively contribute and be part of the team that makes these events a success.

Beyond the Scholarship: Joining the Space Generation

Winning this scholarship is a monumental achievement, but the journey doesn’t end there. By applying, you become part of the Space Generation Advisory Council network, a global community brimming with opportunities. SGAC hosts numerous events, workshops, and projects throughout the year, all designed to foster the next generation of space leaders.

FAQ

Q1: Do I need to be a rocket scientist to apply?

No. While a background in a STEM field is beneficial, the scholarship is open to individuals from various disciplines, including policy, law, business, and communications, as long as they have a strong interest in the space sector.

Q2: What does “emerging country” mean in this context?

While not explicitly defined on the scholarship page, this term typically refers to nations that are currently developing their space capabilities. If you are from an eligible ESA member or associate state and believe your country fits this description, you are encouraged to apply.

Q3: What if I have no experience making videos?

Don’t worry. The evaluation focuses on the quality of your ideas and your ability to communicate them, not your video production skills. Use your smartphone, find a quiet and well-lit space, and speak from the heart.

Q4: Is the €2000 award given upfront?

The award is provided as a reimbursement after the events and upon successful completion of all responsibilities. You will need to manage your initial expenses, but the scholarship is intended to cover travel, accommodation, visa, and registration fees up to the awarded amount.