Applications are now open for the University of Pretoria (UP) Commonwealth Scholarship 2026, offering an incredible fully funded opportunity for doctoral students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa).
This prestigious scholarship is designed to support high-achieving students who wish to begin their PhD studies at UP in 2026. With a scholarship value of ZAR 190,000 per year, plus coverage for flights, visa fees, and living costs, recipients can focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial stress.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: South Africa
- Institution: University of Pretoria
- Eligible Countries: All Commonwealth member states (except South Africa)
- Scholarship Sponsor: UP Internal Bursary
- Level of Study: Doctoral (PhD)
- Duration: 3 Years
- Deadline: September 20, 2025
Financial Benefits
The UP Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 provides full financial coverage, including:
- Return airfare to/from South Africa
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and living allowance
- Medical aid coverage
- Study visa costs
- Shuttle service on arrival
- Books and stationery allowance
- Application and medical aid fees
Eligible Faculties
Recipients can pursue PhD studies in one of the following UP faculties:
- Law
- Humanities
- Education
- Engineering, Built Environment & IT
- Health Sciences
- Veterinary Science
- Economic & Management Sciences
- Natural & Agricultural Sciences
- Theology & Religion
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens or residents of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa)
- Plan to start their PhD at UP in 2026
- Submit a separate application for admission to a doctoral program at UP
- Have a potential supervisor at UP confirmed
- Hold a Master’s degree (completed within the last 2 years)
- Be under 40 years old at the time of application
- Have their academic qualifications evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
- Not be currently enrolled or have previously studied for a PhD at UP
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Selection Criteria
The scholarship committee will assess candidates based on:
- Outstanding academic performance
- Proven research capability at the Master’s level (preferably through publications)
- Leadership potential
- Awards, honors, and notable achievements
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Motivation letter from a confirmed UP supervisor
- One-page outline of intended research
- Updated CV (max 3 pages)
- Certificate of study leave (if employed)
- Copy of passport
- Academic transcripts for all degrees
- Two reference letters from academic supervisors
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How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process:
- Download the official UP Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 application form.
- Apply separately for admission to a doctoral program at UP for the 2026 academic year.
- Compile all required documents into a single PDF file.
- Email the completed application form and PDF package to: pgbursary@up.ac.za
- Subject line: UP Commonwealth 2026
For more scholarship opportunities, please visit International Scholarships.
