University of Pretoria Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded) – South Africa

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

The University of Pretoria (UP), one of Africa’s leading research institutions, is now inviting applications for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026. This fully funded program provides exceptional students from Commonwealth countries with the opportunity to pursue doctoral research in South Africa. The initiative is designed to support outstanding scholars who wish to expand global knowledge and address pressing challenges through world-class research and innovation.

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Degree Level

• Doctoral (PhD)

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Fields of Study

Applicants may pursue doctoral research across a wide range of disciplines offered at UP, including:

• Faculty of Law

• Faculty of Humanities

• Faculty of Education

• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology

• Faculty of Health Sciences

• Faculty of Veterinary Science

• Faculty of Economic & Management Sciences

• Faculty of Natural & Agricultural Sciences

• Faculty of Theology & Religion

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Scholarship Benefits

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarship at UP provides comprehensive financial and academic support, including:

• Full Tuition Fees – complete coverage of all academic costs.

• Living Stipend – monthly allowance to support living expenses.

• Research Support – access to cutting-edge laboratories, research resources, and facilities.

• World-Class Supervision – mentorship from internationally recognized scholars and researchers.

• Academic Community – integration into a vibrant, multicultural, and supportive research network.

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Eligible Nationalities

• Open to citizens of Commonwealth countries.

• South African citizens are not eligible for this scholarship.

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Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

1. Hold a Master’s degree obtained at least two years prior to application (by 2024 or earlier).

2. Be under the age of 38 at the time of application.

3. Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa).

4. Not be a current or former Master’s or Doctoral student at the University of Pretoria.

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Why Choose the University of Pretoria?

The University of Pretoria is consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa, renowned for its research excellence and global impact. As a recipient of this scholarship, you will benefit from:

• An internationally respected academic reputation.

• Access to advanced facilities and resources.

• Mentorship from world-class scholars in your field.

• A diverse, multicultural environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.

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Application Timeline

• Opening Date: 29 July 2025

• Closing Date: 20 September 2025

Applicants are strongly advised to review the official Bursary Conditions PDF provided by the University of Pretoria before submitting their applications.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply?
Citizens of Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa) who meet the academic and age requirements.

2. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition fees, living allowance, and access to research resources.

3. Can South African students apply?
No. This program is only open to students from other Commonwealth countries.

4. What is the age limit?
Applicants must be younger than 38 years old at the time of application.

5. Do I need a Master’s degree?
Yes. Applicants must have completed a Master’s degree at least two years prior to applying.

6. Can current UP students apply?
No. Current or former Master’s and Doctoral students at UP are not eligible.

7. What is the deadline?
The deadline for applications is 20 September 2025.

8. What fields of study are available?
The scholarship covers a wide range of disciplines across nine faculties.

9. How do I apply?
Review the official bursary conditions and submit your application online within the specified dates.

10. Why choose UP for my PhD?
UP offers a world-class research environment, strong academic mentorship, and excellent support systems for international scholars.

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Conclusion

The University of Pretoria Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026 presents an outstanding opportunity for talented researchers from Commonwealth countries to pursue doctoral studies at one of Africa’s most prestigious universities. With full funding, strong academic supervision, and access to top-tier research facilities, this scholarship empowers scholars to contribute meaningfully to global research and innovation.

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