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University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship (Fully Funded)
PhDFully funded
3 min readSkip to how to apply
Next deadline expected around Sep 11, 2027, based on the last confirmed round (closed September 11, 2024). Most scholarships open again at a similar time each year, but dates can change, so confirm on the official page before you apply.
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Are you an ambitious student from a Commonwealth country looking to pursue a fully funded PhD in South Africa? The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship offers international students a unique opportunity to undertake doctoral studies at one of Africa’s top research universities. This competitive scholarship program is fully sponsored and supports outstanding candidates who demonstrate academic excellence and research potential. Note: South African citizens are not eligible for this award.
Apply also: The Gates Scholarship in the United States (Fully Funded)
Summary of Key Information
- Host Country: South Africa
- University: University of Pretoria
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa)
- Degree Level: PhD / Doctoral Programs
- Scholarship Duration: 3 years
- Application Deadline: September 11,
- Funding Sponsor: UP Internal Bursary
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive funding, which includes:
- Return airfare to and from South Africa
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Accommodation and monthly living allowance
- Medical insurance (Health Aid)
- Study visa costs
- University shuttle service upon arrival
- Books and learning materials
- Application fee coverage
Available Faculties for Doctoral Programs
The scholarship supports doctoral research in the following faculties:
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT
- 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
Application Process for the UP Commonwealth Scholarship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the official application form from the University of Pretoria website.
- Apply separatelyfor admission into a PhD program at UP for the academic session.
- Prepare all required documents(check the required documents below) and compile them into one PDF file.
- Email your complete application package (application form + PDF documents) to:
pgbursary@up.ac.za
Email subject line: “UP Commonwealth ”
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, excluding South Africa
- Start their PhD studies in at the University of Pretoria
- Have secured a doctoral supervisor at UP
- Have academic qualifications evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
- Have completed a Master’s or postgraduate degree within the last two years
- Be under the age of 40 at the time of application
- Not be currently enrolled in or previously graduated from a UP doctoral or Master’s program
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Academic achievements
- Research potential and readiness for advanced studies
- Leadership skills and community involvement
- Publication history at the Master’s level
- Recognition, awards, and honors
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents to complete your application:
- Signed motivation letter from a UP supervisor
- One-page research proposal
- Updated curriculum vitae (max 3 pages)
- Certificate of study leave from employer (if employed)
- Valid passport copy
- Academic transcripts for all previous degrees
- Two recommendation letters from academic referees
Apply Now
Take advantage of this prestigious fully funded scholarship to advance your doctoral studies in South Africa. The University of Pretoria offers world-class academic support, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant international student community.
Visit the official website for more details and start your application:
University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Official Page
For more information and to apply, visit theUniversity of Pretoria Scholarship page.
Seize this opportunity to advance your academic career with the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship. Apply today and embark on a transformative educational journey in South Africa!
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How to apply
- Read the eligibility, benefits and required documents above.
- Prepare your documents — transcripts, CV, motivation letter and any tests required.
- Apply through the official website before the deadline.
- Track your progress on GrabScholarships so you never miss a step.
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