University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

If you’re looking to pursue your PhD in a top-tier African university with full support, the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 could be a life-changing opportunity for you. It’s a fully funded doctoral scholarship designed to bring students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa) to Pretoria for a rich, research-oriented academic journey.

Scholarship Categories

This scholarship falls under the Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships, funded internally by the University of Pretoria as part of its contribution to the global Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan. It’s tailored to academically strong candidates from across eligible Commonwealth nations who are committed to advancing research.

Types of Support Available

Your scholarship package is generous and thoughtfully covers:

• A handsome annual stipend of around R190,000 to R184,000 for living and study-related needs.
• Full tuition coverage, ensuring your degree fee is taken care of.
• Accommodation and living expense support to make life smoother in Pretoria.
• Medical aid insurance, fully covered for the second and third years. (You’ll need to manage your own for the first year.)
• Allowance for books and stationery to support your research.
• Round-trip airfare, shuttle services to and from OR Tambo Airport, and reimbursement for application, visa, and medical aid fees.

Courses Available

You can apply to any doctoral (PhD) program across these faculties:

• Law
• Humanities
• Education
• Engineering, Built Environment & IT
• Health Sciences
• Veterinary Science
• Economic & Management Sciences
• Natural & Agricultural Sciences
• Theology & Religion

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country—but not a South African citizen.
• Have completed your Master’s degree at least two years before applying.
• Be 38 years old or younger at the time of application.
• Not have studied at UP before in a doctoral or master’s program.
• Have secured or applied for a PhD admission at the University of Pretoria for 2026.
• Identify a potential supervisor at UP who is willing to support your application.
• Submit your qualifications to SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) for validation.

Benefits of the Scholarship

Beyond the financial relief, this scholarship positions you in a research-intensive and internationally respected environment. You’ll gain access to mentorship, academic resources, and a platform to make your research matter while enjoying ample support to thrive both personally and professionally.

Criteria for Application

Your application will be evaluated based on:

• Academic track record, grades, awards, and research merit.
• Your proposed research’s potential for advanced contribution.
• Leadership and scholarly promise.
• Strength of endorsement from your UP supervisor and the viability of your research plan.

Required Documents

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

• Your UP student reference number (T-number) from your application portal.
• A motivation letter from your UP supervisor confirming their support and funding availability.
• A one-page outline of your proposed research.
• A concise CV (max 3 pages).
• Copy of your passport.
• Official transcripts of your academic records.
• Two letters of academic recommendation (one page each).

How to Apply

1. Apply for admission to a suitable PhD program at the University of Pretoria for 2026.
2. Approach a potential supervisor, get their endorsement (in writing), and confirm they can accommodate your research.
3. Submit your qualifications to SAQA for evaluation.
4. Put together your documents—research plan, CV, transcripts, recommendations.
5. Submit your scholarship application via the university’s process (usually via email) before the deadline: 20 September 2025.

Other Scholarships You Might Find Interesting

If you want to broaden your search, consider these fully funded opportunities featured on my blog:

• Chevening Scholarships in the UK
• University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships in Australia
• University of Florida Scholarships in the USA

Final Thoughts

The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity—spanning generous financial support and academic prestige. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are serious about making an impact through research, this could be your ticket to an incredible doctoral journey in South Africa.