Applications are now open for the 2026 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships. The University of Pretoria, recognised as a leading research-intensive institution, is committed to attracting exceptional doctoral candidates who can make meaningful contributions to its research mission.
In support of South Africa’s participation in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, the University has made funding available for up to two doctoral scholarships specifically for students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South African citizens). These awards, known as the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships, will be granted on a competitive basis.
About the University of Pretoria.
The University of Pretoria (UP) is a seven-campus public university with its largest campus in the heart of Hatfield, the picturesque diplomatic hub of South Africa’s capital city. They proudly stand out among the world’s leading research universities.
Nestled in the purple haze of Pretoria’s iconic jacaranda trees, UP offers a high quality of teaching, learning and research expertise across all nine faculties, including South Africa’s only Faculty of Veterinary Science, and Africa’s top Faculty of Law and business school.
Their characteristics, resolve and focussed commitment have transformed them into a dynamic community of some of the world’s brightest minds, working together across disciplines to discover knowledge and find solutions to some of society’s most pressing concerns.
UP is more than a university, it is a way of life that is underpinned by striving for excellence, giving back to society, and living a life that is ethical, understanding and caring towards everyone.
Eligibility Requirements of the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships.
The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship is open to applicants who are citizens of Commonwealth countries, excluding South African citizens.
- Applicants must intend to undertake their doctoral studies at the University of Pretoria, with commencement in the 2026 academic year.
- Applicants must have formally applied for admission to the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year.
- Each applicant must have identified a potential supervisor at the University of Pretoria.
- Applicants are required to have submitted their academic qualifications for evaluation to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Applicants must have completed their postgraduate Master’s degree at least two years prior to applying for admission in 2026.
- Applicants older than 38 years of age at the time of application are ineligible for this scholarship.
- Current or former Master’s or PhD students of the University of Pretoria are not eligible to apply.
Faculties Available at University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships.
- Faculty of Law.
- Faculty of Humanities.
- Faculty of Education.
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT.
- Faculty of Health Science.
- Faculty of Veterinary Science.
- Faculty of Economic and Management Science.
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
- Faculty of Theology and Religion.
Value of the Doctoral Scholarships.
The value of this Doctoral Scholarship will be R190 000 p.a.
This amount must be used to towards the following student costs:
- Accommodation and living costs p.a.
- Fees p.a.
- Medical Aid for 2027 & 2028 (2026 medical aid at your own expense)
- Books/Stationery.
Note: The scholarship does not cover research running costs.
Additional costs covered by the University:
- Flight ticket to RSA from home country on proof of study permit.
- Return flight ticket to home country at the end of the completion of the programme as confirmed by the faculty.
- Shuttle service on arrival in South Africa and return on completion of studies.
- UP application fee and study visa costs which will be refunded to the Applicant based on proof of receipts upon arrival at UP.
Supplementary Funds
- The Commonwealth Scholarship holder may hold supplementary external bursaries/grants/scholarships with a maximum total value of awards, including this scholarship, of R300 000.00 p.a. The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary award.