The UP Commonwealth Scholarship in South Africa is a fully funded doctoral award for outstanding international students under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan. This is a prestigious scholarship hosted at the University of Pretoria (UP), which is intended to draw promising researchers who are already established as academically capable and possessing leadership abilities.
About the UP Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
The Commonwealth Scholarship offered by the University of Pretoria aims to help outstanding PhD students who can make a difference in the high-impact research program of the university. It provides researchers with the opportunity to be part of one of Africa’s top research institutions, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities, a diverse scholarly community, and expertise in their respective fields.
Why Choose the University of Pretoria for Your PhD?
UP has been transformed into a vibrant academic and research centre of excellence. The student and staff are people with various cultural and professional backgrounds, thus providing an exciting atmosphere of knowledge transfer and collaboration.
The university is renowned for its high-ranking academic programs and significant contributions to various fields, including Engineering, Law, Health Sciences, and Economics. Consequently, it is an ideal destination for scholars engaged in research work.
Eligible Fields of Study for the UP Commonwealth Scholarship
The UP Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 covers a broad range of disciplines, including:
- Law
- Humanities
- Education
- Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
- Health Science
- Veterinary Science
- Economics and Management Science
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Theology and Religion
Scholarship Duration and Location
- Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Duration: 3 years
- Country: South Africa
- Institution: University of Pretoria
- Funding Body: UP Internal Bursary
Fully Funded Benefits of UP Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
The UP Commonwealth PhD Scholarship provides comprehensive funding worth R190,000 per year, covering:
- Full-time payment of fees
- Housing cost and living expenses
- Medical aid (2027 & 2028; 2026 is self-funded)
- Books and stationery allowance
- Air ticket (one way) to South Africa (with proof of study permit)
- Round-trip to end the program
- Shuttle arrival and departure
- UP application fee and cost of studying visa
Eligibility Criteria for the UP Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship
To qualify for the UP Commonwealth Scholarship in South Africa, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (not South Africa).
- Apply for a PhD at UP in 2026.
- Apply for study at UP for the 2025 academic year.
- Got a potential PhD supervisor at UP.
- Send academic documents to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Have graduated from a Master’s programme within the past 2 years.
- Be 40 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Not a current or past PhD/Master’s student at UP.
Step-by-Step Application Process for UP Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
The following steps are required to be considered as an applicant:
- Complete the UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship application form.
- Fill out the form and:
- Your UP Online Application Reference T number /2026 student number
- A letter of motivation from your preferred supervisor to clarify that he/she support you and that financial backing for research is available
- One-page outline of research proposal
- Your resume (no more than three pages)
- A valid copy of a passport
- Formal school records of your latest degree
- Two recommendation letters (max 1 page each) to be written by academic or professional referees
UP Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 Deadline
Application Closing Date: 20 September 2024
It is imperative to begin early to win the backing of your supervisor and to have all the documents in place far in advance of the closing date.
Also check: Simmons University Kotzen Scholarships 2026 | Fully Funded
Why This Scholarship Is a Life-Changing Opportunity
Besides the financial aid that is provided by winning the UP Commonwealth Scholarship, one gains access to:
- Best in the world research labs and guidance
- A multicultural atmosphere
- Connection with the international scholars
- Innovation leadership
- Academic excellence and being exposed to rich South African culture
Final Thoughts
Are you a motivated, research-focused scholar holding a Commonwealth citizenry? The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 may be your passport to an outstanding academic experience. With full funding, international exposure, and unparalleled research opportunities, this program is one of the most sought-after doctoral scholarships in South Africa.
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