2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships

🌍 About the Scholarship

The University of Pretoria, recognized as a leading research-intensive institution, is committed to attracting exceptional doctoral candidates who can make meaningful contributions to its research mission. In support of South Africa’s participation in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, the University has made funding available for up to two doctoral scholarships specifically for students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South African citizens).

These awards, known as the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships, will be granted on a competitive basis.

📅 Opportunity Details

• Date Published: August 5, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 20, 2025
• Category: PhD, Postgraduate
• Opportunity Location: South Africa

💰 Benefits of the Scholarship

Value of the Scholarship

The value of this Doctoral Scholarship is R190,000 per annum, which must be used for the following:

• Accommodation and living costs
• Fees
• Medical aid for 2027 and 2028 (2026 medical aid is at the applicant's own expense)
• Books and stationery

Note: The scholarship does not cover research running costs.

Additional Costs Covered by the University

• Flight ticket to South Africa from the home country (upon proof of study permit)
• Return flight ticket to the home country upon completion of the program (as confirmed by the faculty)
• Shuttle service on arrival in South Africa and return upon completion of studies
• UP application fee and study visa costs (refunded upon arrival at UP with proof of receipts)

Supplementary Funds

The Commonwealth Scholarship holder may hold supplementary external bursaries/grants/scholarships, with a maximum total value of awards (including this scholarship) of R300,000 per annum. The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary award.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

• Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South African citizens).
• Must intend to undertake doctoral studies at the University of Pretoria, commencing in the 2026 academic year.
• Must have formally applied for admission to the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year.
• Must have identified a potential supervisor at the University of Pretoria.
• Must have submitted academic qualifications for evaluation to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Must have completed a postgraduate Master’s degree at least two years prior to applying for admission in 2026.
• Applicants older than 38 years at the time of application are ineligible.
• Current or former Master’s or PhD students of the University of Pretoria are not eligible to apply.

📝 Application Process

1. Visit the official application portal to download the open call PDF for detailed instructions on how to apply.
2. Ensure all eligibility requirements are met before submitting your application.

📅 Application Deadline

September 20, 2025

🔗 Scholarship Application Portal

For more details, visit the official UP Commonwealth Scholarship for Doctoral Studies.

To apply, access the UP Commonwealth Scholarship Application Form.

This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for outstanding doctoral candidates from Commonwealth countries to pursue their research at one of South Africa's leading institutions. Don't miss the chance to apply!

• The value of this Doctoral Scholarship will be R190 000 p.a.
• This amount must be used towards the following student costs:
  • Accommodation and living costs p.a.
  • Fees p.a.
  • Medical Aid for 2027 & 2028 (2026 medical aid at your own expense)
  • Books/Stationery.
• Additional costs covered by the University:
  • Flight ticket to RSA from home country on proof of study permit.
  • Return flight ticket to home country at the end of the completion of the programme as confirmed by the faculty.
  • Shuttle service on arrival in South Africa and return on completion of studies.
  • UP application fee and study visa costs which will be refunded to the Applicant based on proof of receipts upon arrival at UP.
• The Commonwealth Scholarship holder may hold supplementary external bursaries/grants/scholarships with a maximum total value of awards, including this scholarship, of R300 000.00 p.a. The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary award.