Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship: Shall we explore the possibility of a fully-funded scholarship in South Africa?
Applications are now being accepted from all qualified and interested international students for the 2026 Commonwealth Scholarship.
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The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship is a fully funded graduate opportunity awarded to candidates seeking to contribute significantly to research endeavours.
In this post, the full details of the eligibility, benefits, timeline, and application procedure will be provided.
Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship Abstract
- Scholarship Host: University of Pretoria
- Study Abroad: Study Abroad || Study-In-Africa
- Location: South Africa
- Category: Scholarships || Postgraduate Scholarships || PhD Scholarships
- Benefits: Full Scholarship
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- $16,215 Living Stipends
- Eligibility: Commonwealth Countries
- Deadline: September 20, 2025
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Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship Details
As part of South Africa’s contribution to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, the University of Pretoria has made funds available for three doctoral scholarships for students coming from Commonwealth Countries (excluding South African students).
This scholarship is known as the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship and will be awarded on a competitive basis.
The University of Pretoria is a research-intensive university. Through the Commonwealth Scholarship, the university is seeking candidates for doctoral studies who will make significant contributions to its research endeavours.
The University of Pretoria has an established reputation for academic excellence, particularly in relation to its major research activities. Information about these research activities can be obtained from the following website of the University
Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship Benefits
The value of this Doctoral Scholarship will be R184 000 p.a. This amount must be used to cover the following student costs:
- Accommodation and living costs.
- Fees p.a.
- Medical Aid.
- 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 from OR Tambo International Airport to Pretoria and return from Pretoria to OR Tambo International Airport on completion.
- UP application fee, medical aid fee and study visa costs which will be refunded to the Applicant based on proof of receipt.
- 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 000.00 p.a.
- The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary award.
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University of Pretoria Scholarship Requirements
To be eligible for the University of Pretoria Scholarship, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
- The UP Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship will be awarded to applicants who are citizens of Commonwealth countries, except South Africans.
- Applicants must conduct their studies at the University of Pretoria and commence in 2025.
- Applicant must have submitted an application to study at UP for the 2025 academic year.
- Each Applicant must have identified a potential supervisor.
- Each Applicant must have submitted academic records to the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
- Applicants must have completed their postgraduate/Masters degree no less than two years prior to applying to UP for admission for the 2025 academic year.
- Applicants who are older than 40 years of age do not qualify for this scholarship.
- PhD and Masters students currently registered or who previously studied at the University of Pretoria are not eligible to apply.
Required Documents for University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
While applying for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship, you will be required to submit the following documents;
- The UP Online application Ref “T” number or 2026 student number provided to the Applicants by UP on their UP Portal.
- A written motivation from the prospective Doctoral supervisor that you have identified from UP. The said motivation must confirm the availability of research funding.
- An outline (one A4 page) of the proposed research work.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – no more than 3 pages.
- Proof that study leave will be granted if the scholarship is awarded (if applicable) by your place of current work,
- Copy of a valid passport.
- Full academic transcripts of all qualifications obtained (not certificates).
- Two completed reference forms from two different academics/supervisors who have current knowledge of the Applicant’s academic performance (Reference form attached).
How To Apply for Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship 2026
To apply for the Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship, follow the instructions we have outlined below;
- Read the information we have provided on this webpage and ensure your eligibility
- Click on the button below to visit the scholarship webpage
- Download and fill the scholarship application form
- Download and fill also, the Reference Form
- Submit the Application form for the UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship to the University of Pretoria with the required documentation attached.
- The above forms and documents should be sent as a single PDF document to pgbursary@up.ac.za with a
Subject Heading “UP Commonwealth 2026”
Begin your application by clicking on the button below.
Deadline: September 20th, 2025
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