Stellenbosch University Scholarship 2026 in South Africa | Fully Funded

The Stellenbosch University Scholarship 2026 opens doors for ambitious postgraduate students worldwide, inviting applications for its prestigious Postgraduate Scholarship Programme (PSP) in South Africa. Whether you’re aiming for a Master’s or PhD, this initiative welcomes international applicants to join a vibrant research community. Funding options range from fully funded to partial awards, customized to each faculty’s standards, helping you focus on groundbreaking studies without financial hurdles. Remember, success requires meeting both scholarship criteria and your program’s admission requirements through two separate application streams—one for your degree and one for the funding.

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape, Stellenbosch University stands as the continent’s oldest institution, achieving full university status in 1918 and proudly holding the title of Sub-Saharan Africa’s pioneering higher education hub. Renowned for its research excellence, it ranks third in Africa and between 251-275 globally in the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings, while QS places it at 390 worldwide and third on the continent. This legacy of innovation makes the Stellenbosch University Scholarship 2026 a gateway to transformative academic experiences at one of Africa’s leading lights.

Benefits

Full or partial financing is available to South African and international students, and the recipients will be chosen based on their accomplishments and academic standing.

• Doctoral: R160,000 per annum (up to three years)
• Honours: R110,000 for one academic year.
• Master’s: R140,000 per annum (up to two years).

Eligibility Criteria

In order to be considered for the Stellenbosch University Scholarship 202​​6 in South Africa, applicants must:

• You must be accepted into a postgraduate program (a master’s, PhD, or honors degree), fulfill the requirements unique to your faculty, and apply for the scholarship and degree program independently in order to be eligible for this flagship program.
• You are not allowed to work more than 20 hours a week and cannot take a full-time paying position.
• You must submit separate applications for the PSP scholarship and postgraduate study.
• You cannot work full-time or more than 20 hours per week while on scholarship.
  You cannot apply for a qualification at the same or lower level as the one you already have.
  Master’s and doctoral degree recipients are required to write a specified number of articles for peer evaluation.
• Academic Average:
• Honors: Most faculties need a minimum of a 60% average in your last undergraduate year, while some may require more.
• Master’s: A minimum of 65% in your honors degree.
• Doctoral: At least 65% in your master’s degree.
  
  NOTE: If you received NSFAS or ISFAP funding for your undergraduate studies, you must include proof of funding with your scholarship application. Acceptable documents include a fee statement showing the NSFAS bursary or an official letter from your university’s financial aid office confirming NSFAS/ISFAP support.

Documents Required for Stellenbosch University Scholarship 2026

• Online Application Form
• Copy of ID document / Passport – for international students.
• Academic Transcript
• An official copy of your previous thesis
• Letter of support from a prospective supervisor
• A copy of a previous academic writing sample (e.g., thesis or research essay).
• A 500-word preliminary research proposal
• Up-to-date curriculum vitae/resume explains following:
  • Research publications (if applicable),
  • Awards or grants received,
  • Professional / Work experience.

How to Apply?

• Explore Postgraduate Programs
  Visit the Stellenbosch University website for prospective postgraduate students. Review the available Master’s and PhD programs, and check the minimum requirements for each program.
• Apply for Your Chosen Program
  Submit your application for the relevant postgraduate program. Make sure to note which faculty your program belongs to, as this affects the scholarship criteria.
• Check Faculty Scholarship Requirements
  Each faculty has its own eligibility requirements for the PSP Scholarship. Review the call document or faculty guidelines carefully to ensure you meet all conditions.
• Submit Your PSP Scholarship Application
  Use the faculty-specific application link to apply for the PSP Scholarship. Attach all required documents, including your academic transcripts, CV, research proposal, and proof of previous funding if applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Stellenbosch University PSP Scholarship 2026 supports emerging postgraduate researchers with full and partial funding based on faculty criteria, open to internationals from September 1 to October 31, 2025. Apply separately after program admission, including NSFAS/ISFAP proof if applicable. It’s a flagship initiative for Africa’s top research uni, fostering inclusive innovation. Check call docs for details and start early!