The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for outstanding candidates from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa) seeking to pursue PhD studies and contribute significantly to research at the University of Pretoria (UP), South Africa.
About the University of Pretoria
UP is a research-intensive university known for academic excellence and impactful research. This scholarship is part of South Africa’s contribution to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), and aims to attract high-quality international doctoral students. More information on UP’s research areas can be found on the university's website.
Scholarship Benefits
Core Scholarship Value – R184,000 per annum to cover:
* Tuition and academic fees
* Accommodation and living expenses
* Medical aid
* Books and stationery
Additional Benefits Provided by UP:
* One-way flight to South Africa upon confirmation of study permit
* Return flight home upon successful completion
* Shuttle service from OR Tambo International Airport to UP (arrival and departure)
* Reimbursement of UP application fee, medical aid fee, and study visa cost (based on proof of payment)
Supplementary Funds:
* Scholarship holders may receive external funding up to R300,000 per annum (including this scholarship)
* This scholarship must remain the primary award
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
1. Be citizens of a Commonwealth country, excluding South Africa
2. Have completed a postgraduate/master’s degree not more than two years before applying for 2026 entry
3. Be younger than 40 years as of application
4. Have applied to study at UP for the 2025 academic year
5. Have identified a UP supervisor and received written confirmation of research funding availability
6. Have submitted academic records to SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
7. Not be currently registered or have previously studied at UP
8. Be ready to commence doctoral studies at UP in 2026
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
* UP online application reference (“T” number or 2025 student number)
* Written motivation from the identified UP supervisor, confirming research funding availability
* One-page research proposal (A4 size)
* Curriculum Vitae (CV) – maximum 3 pages
* Proof of study leave (if employed)
* Copy of a valid passport
* Full academic transcripts (not certificates)
* Two reference forms completed by academics/supervisors familiar with your academic performance (Reference form template is provided on the scholarship page)
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How to Apply
Apply for admission to a PhD program at the University of Pretoria for the 2025 academic year
1. Visit the scholarship's website
2. Identify a supervisor at UP and get written confirmation of research funding
3. Download and fill:
* The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship Application Form
* The Reference Form (x2)
4. Combine all required documents into one single PDF file
5. Email the application to: pgbursary@up.ac.za using the subject line: “UP Commonwealth 2026”
Deadline: September 20, 2025