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University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026
University of Pretoria (UP), one of Africa’s leading research-intensive universities, invites applications for the Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026. This prestigious award supports exceptional candidates from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa) who wish to pursue full-time doctoral studies at UP.
The scholarship is part of South Africa’s commitment to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, aimed at fostering research excellence and academic collaboration across the Commonwealth.
Scholarship Overview
(Quick facts about eligibility, benefits, and deadlines)
| Host Country | South Africa |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University of Pretoria, South Africa |
| scholarship coverage | fully funded |
| Level of Study | Doctoral |
| Field(s) of Study | All academic discipline |
| Application Deadlines | 20 September 2025 |
check: DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 – Fully Funded Postdoctoral Research in Germany
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa)
- Have completed a Master’s degree at least two years prior to applying
- Be under 39 years old at the time of application
- Have applied for admission to a UP PhD program for 2026
- Identify a potential supervisor at UP (with confirmed research funding)
- Hold SAQA evaluation of academic qualifications (visit www.saqa.org.za)
- Not be a current or former UP Master’s/PhD student
Scholarship Benefits
Annual Stipend (R190,000) covers:
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Tuition fees
- Medical aid (covered for 2027 & 2028; 2026 at own expense)
- Books and stationery
Additional Benefits:
- One-way flight to South Africa at the start of the program
- Return flight upon completion of studies
- Shuttle service on arrival and departure
- Refund for UP application and study visa costs (upon proof of receipts)
Not Covered:
- Family expenses
- Additional baggage costs
- Research running costs
check: ASU Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded Mastercard Foundation Program
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship application form along with:
- UP online application reference number (Ref “T” number) or 2026 student number
- Written motivation from the identified UP doctoral supervisor (confirming funding availability)
- One-page research proposal outline
- CV (max 3 pages)
- Copy of valid passport
- Official academic transcripts for most recent degree
- Two academic references (1 page each)
- Proof of SAQA evaluation
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2025
- Results Announcement: End of November 2025
- Start Date: 2026 academic year
Why Apply?
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded PhD opportunity at one of Africa’s top universities, with international exposure, research support, and a strong academic network. This program is ideal for aspiring researchers aiming to make a global impact while contributing to their home country’s development.
