The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue fully funded doctoral studies in South Africa. This prestigious scholarship is part of South Africa’s Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, designed to reward academic excellence and proven leadership potential. By supporting talented scholars, the University of Pretoria aims to foster cutting-edge research across diverse fields such as Law, Humanities, Education, Engineering, Health Sciences, Economics, and more.
Recognized for its vibrant academic community and commitment to innovation, the University of Pretoria provides a supportive environment for scholars to thrive and contribute meaningfully to global research goals. The scholarship program not only covers tuition and living expenses but also connects recipients with passionate faculty mentors dedicated to student success. If you are looking to advance your academic career with a world-class education and impactful research experience, the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Apply now before the deadline!
Scholarship Summary
- Country: South Africa
- Host: University of Pretoria (UP) Internal Bursary
- Study level: Doctoral
- Duration: 3 year’s
- Benefits: Fully funded
- Deadline: 20 September 2025
Benefits
- Scholarship value: R190,000 per year for doctoral studies. It covers:
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Tuition fees
- Medical aid for 2027 & 2028 (medical aid in 2026 is your own expense)
- Books and stationery.
- Accommodation and living expenses
Eligibility Criteria
- Be citizens of Commonwealth countries excluding South Africans.
- Acquire their studies at the University of Pretoria and start in 2026.
- Submit an application to study at UP in 2025 academic year.
- Have selected a potential supervisor.
- Submit their academic records to the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
- Have completed their postgraduate/Masters degree in the previous two years to apply to UP for admission in 2025.
- Not be older than 40 years.
- PhD and Masters students who are registered or who have previously studied at the University of Pretoria can not apply for this scholarship.
Faculties Eligible for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT
- Faculty of Health Science
- Faculty of Veterinary Science
- Faculty of Economic and Management Science
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Theology and Religion
How to Apply?
To apply for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026, you must complete the application form and submit it along with these documents:
- Your UP Online Application Reference “T” number or 2026 student number from the UP Portal
- A written motivation from your chosen UP doctoral supervisor confirming their support and available research funding
- A one-page summary of your proposed research
- Your CV (up to 3 pages)
- A copy of your valid passport
- Official academic transcripts for your most recent degree
- Two letters of support (each up to one page) from academics or supervisors familiar with your work
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international doctoral students under 38 years old. It requires a Master’s degree, supervisor support, and covers diverse academic fields with a focus on research excellence. South African citizens and current UP postgraduates are not eligible.
What is the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 supports international doctoral students. It offers a fully funded opportunity to study at UP under South Africa’s Commonwealth Scholarship plan. The focus is on research excellence and leadership potential.
Who is eligible to apply for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must be international students, not South African citizens, and should hold a Master’s degree completed at least two years before 2026. Candidates must be under 38 years old and not currently enrolled for an M&D degree at UP.
Which fields of study does the scholarship cover?
This scholarship supports doctoral research in various faculties including Humanities, Education, Law, Engineering, Health Sciences, Veterinary Science, Economics, and Natural and Agricultural Sciences. Research must align with the university’s priorities.
What documents are required to apply for the scholarship?
Applicants must submit a completed application form, a research proposal summary, CV, valid passport copy, academic transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a written motivation from a UP doctoral supervisor confirming support and funding availability.
Is the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 fully funded?
Yes, the scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel costs, and other approved expenses to support international doctoral students throughout their studies at the university.
How can I apply for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must complete the online UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship application form and submit it along with all required documents. Applications must be sent to the University of Pretoria by the specified deadline to be considered.
Can South African citizens apply for this scholarship?
No, South African citizens are not eligible for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026. The scholarship is specifically designed for international students under South Africa’s Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan.
Are current UP Master’s or Doctoral students eligible to apply?
No, candidates currently registered for a Master’s or Doctoral degree at the University of Pretoria are not eligible. The scholarship is for new applicants intending to begin doctoral studies in 2026.
What is the age limit to apply for the scholarship?
Applicants must be under 38 years of age at the time of application. This age limit ensures the scholarship supports early-career researchers and emerging leaders within the academic community.
How are successful candidates selected for the scholarship?
Selection is based on academic merit, leadership potential, and the alignment of the proposed research with UP’s strategic priorities. A doctoral supervisor must support the application and confirm that funding is available for the research project.
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