University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship Opportunity 2026 to Transform Your Academic Career

About the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship

Are you a high-achieving student from a Commonwealth country with dreams of pursuing a PhD in Africa? The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to study at one of the continent’s leading research institutions—fully funded and internationally respected.

The University of Pretoria (UP) Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship is a prestigious and fully funded program designed for talented PhD students from Commonwealth nations (excluding South Africa). This scholarship aims to bolster research capacity and academic excellence across the Commonwealth, while also enhancing UP’s global research partnerships. As part of South Africa’s contribution to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, the program seeks to support emerging scholars committed to advancing impactful research.

Eligible Fields

Applicants from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is available for studies in any of the following UP faculties:

• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Humanities
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Veterinary Science
• Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
• Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
• Faculty of Theology and Religion

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa)
• Be under the age of 40 at the time of application
• Have completed a Master’s degree no less than two years before applying
• Have applied for admission to a PhD program at the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year
• Have secured a prospective supervisor at UP and obtained a written recommendation confirming supervisory support and funding availability
• Not be a current or former PhD or Master’s student at the University of Pretoria
• Have submitted their academic qualifications to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for evaluation

Selection Criteria

The selection process is competitive and based on the following:

• Demonstrated academic excellence
• Quality and feasibility of the proposed research project
• Strength of the recommendation from the prospective supervisor
• Alignment of the proposed research with the University of Pretoria’s strategic research priorities

Eligible Countries

All Commonwealth countries are eligible to apply, except South Africa. This includes nations across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

• University of Pretoria 2026 application reference number or student number
• A written motivation from the prospective UP supervisor
• A 1-page research proposal or outline of intended doctoral research
• A CV (maximum 3 pages)
• Proof of study leave from employer (if applicable)
• Copy of a valid passport
• Complete academic transcripts (not certificates alone)
• Two completed reference forms (using UP Reference Form)

All documents must be sent to pgbursary@up.ac.za with the subject line: “UP Commonwealth 2026”

Benefits of the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship

This scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for the duration of the PhD program, including:

• Tuition and registration fees
• Annual stipend: R184,000 for accommodation, living expenses, books, and medical aid
• One return international flight (home country to South Africa and back)
• Airport shuttle from/to OR Tambo International Airport
• Refunds for visa, application, and medical aid fees upon submission of proof
• Top-up allowance: Scholars may receive additional external funding (up to R300,000 annually) with this scholarship as the main source

How to Apply

Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Apply for admission to a PhD program at the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year
2. Identify a suitable doctoral supervisor at UP and obtain a written recommendation
3. Complete the required forms:
   • UP Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship Application Form
   • UP Reference Form (two referees required)
4. Compile all supporting documents and submit them via email to: pgbursary@up.ac.za
   • Subject Line: “UP Commonwealth 2026”

Application Deadline are as follows

All applications must be submitted on or before September 20, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Final Thoughts

The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for exceptional researchers ready to contribute to global knowledge while studying in South Africa. With full funding, robust academic support, and a vibrant international community, this scholarship can be the gateway to your next major breakthrough.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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