Applications are now open for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 — a fully funded doctoral scholarship for outstanding students from Commonwealth countries to study in South Africa. This prestigious program supports international scholars who wish to pursue a PhD at one of Africa’s leading universities.
The University of Pretoria (UP) Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, medical aid, books, return airfare, and study visa costs, ensuring recipients can focus fully on their research.
Note: South African citizens are not eligible for this scholarship. Applicants must begin their doctoral studies at UP in 2026.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: South Africa
- Host Institution: University of Pretoria
- Degree Level: PhD (Doctoral)
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa)
- Funding Source: UP Internal Bursary
- Scholarship Value: ZAR 190,000 per year + travel and visa costs
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2025
Financial Benefits
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 offers full financial support, including:
- Return flight tickets
- Tuition fees and application fee
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Medical aid coverage
- Books and stationery allowance
- Shuttle service on arrival
- Study visa costs
Scholarship Duration
The award is valid for three years — the standard duration of a doctoral program at UP.
Eligible Faculties
Scholars can pursue their PhD in any of the following faculties:
- Law
- Humanities
- Education
- Engineering, Built Environment, and IT
- Health Sciences
- Veterinary Science
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Theology and Religion
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa).
- Intend to begin doctoral studies at UP in 2026.
- Apply separately for admission to a PhD program at UP for the 2026 academic year.
- Secure a potential PhD supervisor at UP.
- Have academic qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Have completed a Master’s degree or equivalent within the past two years.
- Be under 40 years old at the time of application.
- Not be currently enrolled in or have previously completed a PhD or Master’s at the University of Pretoria.
Selection Criteria
- Strong academic performance.
- Potential for advanced research.
- Leadership qualities.
- Research achievements at Master’s level (including publications).
- Awards, honors, and professional recognition.
Required Documents
- Motivation letter from your prospective UP supervisor.
- One-page research proposal.
- CV (maximum 3 pages).
- Certificate of study leave from employer (if applicable).
- Copy of passport.
- Academic transcripts for all degrees.
- Two reference letters from academic supervisors.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026:
- Download the official UP Commonwealth Scholarship application form.
- Apply separately for admission to a PhD program at UP for 2026.
- Prepare all required documents and combine them into a single PDF.
- Email your complete application package (form + PDF documents) to pgbursary@up.ac.za with the subject line:
UP Commonwealth 2026
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