The University of Pretoria is now accepting applications for the 2026 Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship Programme.
This is a fully funded opportunity offering R300,000 ($16,215) annually to support outstanding candidates from Commonwealth nations pursuing PhD studies at the University of Pretoria.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South Africa
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Commonwealth Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | $16,215 Stipends | Accommodation | Travel Costs
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: September 20, 2025
Scholarship Details
The University of Pretoria (UP) is a prestigious research-intensive institution. This doctoral scholarship aims to attract high-achieving candidates who will contribute to the university’s research goals.
As part of South Africa’s commitment to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, UP has provided funding for three doctoral scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africans). Selection is competitive.
UP has a longstanding reputation for excellence in research and academic achievement.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be citizens of a Commonwealth country, excluding South Africa.
- Apply for and conduct doctoral studies at the University of Pretoria starting in 2026.
- Have applied for admission to UP for the 2025 academic year.
- Have identified a potential supervisor at UP.
- Have submitted academic records to the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
- Have completed their Master’s degree at least two years before applying.
- Be under 40 years of age.
- Not currently be enrolled in, or have previously studied for, a PhD or Master’s degree at the University of Pretoria.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship is valued at R184,000 per annum and covers:
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Annual tuition fees
- Medical aid
- Books and stationery
Additional benefits include:
- Flight from home country to South Africa (upon submission of study permit)
- Return flight to home country after programme completion
- Shuttle service from OR Tambo Airport to Pretoria (arrival and departure)
- Reimbursement of UP application fees, study visa, and medical aid costs (with receipts)
Supplementary Funding:
- Scholars may receive additional external awards up to a total of R300,000 per year, but the UP Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary funding source.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- UP Online application reference “T” number or student number (from the UP Portal)
- Written motivation from the proposed UP supervisor confirming research funding availability
- One-page outline of proposed research work
- Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages)
- Proof of study leave (if employed)
- Copy of valid passport
- Full academic transcripts of all qualifications (not certificates)
- Two completed reference forms from different academic referees
How to Apply
To apply for this scholarship:
- Visit the official UP Commonwealth Scholarship webpage
- Download and complete the scholarship application form
- Download and complete the reference form
- Submit all required documents as a single PDF file to: [email protected]
- Use the email subject: “UP Commonwealth 2026”
Application closes on September 20, 2025.
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