2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship | Fully Funded
The University of Pretoria (UP) is offering the prestigious 2026 Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship to exceptional students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africans) who want to pursue their PhD in South Africa. This is a fully funded opportunity that covers tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, travel, medical insurance, and more, giving scholars the financial freedom to focus entirely on research and academic excellence.
Applications close on 20 September 2025, and only the most outstanding candidates with a strong research background will be selected.
2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South Africa
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host University: University of Pretoria
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa)
- Reward: R190,000 per year plus additional travel and visa costs
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2025
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2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Details
The University of Pretoria is one of Africa’s leading research universities, attracting scholars from around the world. This scholarship is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan and supports high-achieving doctoral candidates who are committed to advancing research in their fields.
The award is highly competitive, with selection based on academic excellence, leadership potential, research achievements, and contributions to the applicant’s field of study.
To qualify, you must already have applied for PhD admission at UP for the 2026 academic year and have identified a potential supervisor.
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2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the 2026 UP Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship, you must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa).
- Have applied for PhD admission at UP for 2026 and identified a potential supervisor.
- Have completed a Master’s degree at least two years before applying.
- Be 38 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Have submitted your qualifications for evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Not be a current or former Master’s or PhD student at the University of Pretoria.
- Show strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and research achievements.
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2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship is valued at R190,000 per year and covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Medical aid (from 2027 onwards; 2026 to be covered by the student)
- Books and stationery
Additional benefits include:
- One-way flight ticket to South Africa at the start of the program
- Return flight ticket upon completion of the degree
- Airport shuttle service on arrival and departure
- Refund of UP application fee and study visa costs upon arrival (with receipts)
Note: The scholarship does not cover family expenses, research running costs, or additional baggage fees.
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2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Required Documents
When applying, you must prepare and submit the following:
- UP Online application reference number (“T” number) or 2026 student number.
- Written motivation from your prospective doctoral supervisor confirming available research funding.
- A one-page outline of your proposed research.
- Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages).
- Copy of valid passport.
- Official academic transcripts of your most recent degree.
- Two letters of recommendation (1 page each) from academics who know your work.
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How to Apply for the 2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for PhD admission at the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year.
- Identify and contact a potential supervisor at UP who aligns with your research interest.
- Obtain written confirmation from your supervisor regarding research funding availability.
- Prepare all required documents listed above.
- Complete the UP Commonwealth Scholarship application form online
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Await the selection outcome, successful candidates will receive an award letter by the end of November 2025.
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Deadline
20 September 2025
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