The University of Pretoria (UP), one of South Africa’s leading research institutions, is now inviting applications for the Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is designed for high-achieving students from Commonwealth nations (excluding South Africa) who wish to begin their doctoral studies at UP in 2026.
With support covering tuition fees, travel, accommodation, and more, the scholarship offers an exceptional pathway for aspiring researchers to contribute to globally significant work while studying in a dynamic and diverse academic environment.
University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026 Overview
- Host Country: South Africa
- University: University of Pretoria (UP)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Academic Level: PhD/Doctoral Programs
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Deadline to Apply: September 20, 2025
What the Scholarship Covers
Selected candidates will receive comprehensive financial support throughout the duration of their studies, including:
- Return international airfare
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Medical aid and health insurance
- Accommodation and campus shuttle service on arrival
- Allowance for books and stationery
- Coverage of study visa and application fees
Fields of Study
Doctoral programs are available in the following faculties:
- Law
- Humanities
- Education
- Engineering, Built Environment and IT
- Health Sciences
- Veterinary Science
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Theology and Religion
Also Check: Zhengzhou University President Scholarship 2026 for PhD Degree (Fully Funded) Without IELTS
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 UP Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding South Africa)
- Be under the age of 40 at the time of application
- Have completed a Master’s or equivalent postgraduate degree within the past two years
- Have secured a willing supervisor at the University of Pretoria
- Be applying to begin a doctoral program at UP in 2026
- Not have previously studied at UP
Required Documents
- Motivation letter from your potential UP supervisor
- Brief research outline (one page)
- Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages)
- Proof of study leave (if employed)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Copy of passport
- Two recommendation letters from academic referees
How to Apply for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship?
Follow these steps:
- Download and complete the UP Commonwealth Scholarship Application Form
- Apply separately for admission into a doctoral program at UP for the 2026 academic year
- Combine all required documents into a single PDF file
- Email the complete application package to:
[email protected]- Subject Line: “UP Commonwealth 2026”
