Deadline: September 20, 2025
Are you a citizen of a Commonwealth country with a passion for research and a dream to pursue doctoral studies in South Africa? The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship for 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious opportunity supports high-achieving students who want to further their academic careers at one of Africa’s leading research universities.
Why Choose the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship for 2026?
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship for 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for talented individuals from eligible Commonwealth nations (excluding South Africa) to pursue PhD studies in any discipline offered at the university. This initiative promotes advanced research, academic excellence, and global knowledge exchange.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful candidates will receive a comprehensive funding package that covers:
- Annual stipend of R190,000 (some sources cite R184,000)
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Medical aid (covered in 2027 and 2028; students must cover 2026)
- Books and stationery allowance
- Inbound and return flight tickets
- Airport shuttle (arrival and departure)
- Refunds for:
- University application fee
- Medical aid registration
- Study visa costs (with proof)
Please note: The scholarship does not cover family expenses or research running costs.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship is awarded for a maximum of three academic years, subject to satisfactory academic progress. Extensions are granted only in exceptional cases.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, excluding South Africa
- Not be a current or former Master’s or PhD student at the University of Pretoria
- Hold a Master’s degree completed at least two years before the application year
- Be aged 38 years or younger at the time of application
- Have applied for admission to a doctoral programme at UP for the 2026 academic year
- Secure a letter of support from a potential supervisor at UP
- Have submitted academic qualifications for SAQA evaluation
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be assessed based on:
- Academic excellence (grades, awards, prior research)
- Quality and feasibility of the proposed research
- Leadership skills and potential
- Strength of motivation from the UP supervisor
- Alignment with University of Pretoria research strengths
Supplementary Funding Allowance
Awardees may hold additional bursaries or grants, provided:
- The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship remains the primary funding
- Total annual funding does not exceed R300,000
Application Process
To apply, follow these steps:
- Apply for admission to a PhD programme at the University of Pretoria (2026 intake).
- Contact a potential supervisor and obtain a signed letter of motivation confirming willingness to supervise and research alignment.
- Submit your academic qualifications to SAQA for evaluation.
- Prepare all supporting documents:
- Application reference (T-number) or student number from UP
- Supervisor’s letter of motivation
- One-page research outline
- Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages)
- Passport copy and academic transcripts
- Two academic referee reports
- Complete the scholarship application form and submit by 20 September 2025 via the university’s specified channels (typically email: pgbursary@up.ac.za).
Subject line: “UP Commonwealth 2025”
Important Dates
| Milestone | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Application Deadline | 20 September 2025 |
| Doctoral Studies Start Date | January/February 2026 |
Final Thoughts
This is an incredible opportunity to pursue your PhD in a dynamic, research-intensive environment. The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship for 2026 not only provides full financial support but also positions you for global impact through advanced research and collaboration.
Need help putting together a strong application?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
