Are you an ambitious student from a Commonwealth country aiming to pursue a fully funded PhD in South Africa? The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 offers international students an exceptional opportunity to conduct doctoral research at one of Africa’s premier research universities. This prestigious scholarship covers all costs and is awarded to outstanding individuals with proven academic excellence and strong research potential. Note: South African citizens are not eligible this scholarship.
Summary of Key Information
- Host Country: South Africa
- University: University of Pretoria
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
- Degree Level: PhD / Doctoral Programs
- Scholarship Duration: 3 years
- Application Deadline: September 11, 2024
- Funding Sponsor: UP Internal Bursary
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits:
Successful candidates will be awarded comprehensive funding that covers:
- Return airfare to and from South Africa
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Accommodation
- 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 provides support for PhD research in the following academic 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
How to Apply?
Follow these steps to apply:
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Download the official application form from the UP website.
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Apply separately for admission to a doctoral program at UP for the 2025 academic year.
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Compile all required documents (listed below) into a single PDF file.
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Email your full application package—including the completed application form and a single PDF containing all supporting documents—should be submitted to:
pgbursary@up.ac.za -
Email subject line: “UP Commonwealth 2025”
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Plan to start PhD studies at the UP.
- Have obtained confirmation from a doctoral supervisor at UP
- Hold academic qualifications that have been evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
- Have completed a Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification within the past two years
- Not currently enrolled in, or previously graduated from, any Master’s or doctoral program at the University of Pretoria
Selection Criteria:
Applicants will be assessed based on the following criteria:
- Academic performance and qualifications
- Research potential and preparedness for doctoral studies
- Leadership abilities and involvement in community initiatives
- Publication record at the Master’s level
- Awards, honors, and other forms of recognition
Required Documents:
To finalize your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- A signed motivation letter from your confirmed UP supervisor
- A concise, one-page research proposal
- Current cv (with 3 pages)
- A certificate of study leave from your employer, if applicable
- A valid copy of your passport
- Academic transcripts for all completed degrees
- Two academic reference letters from qualified referees
Apply Now
Make the most of this prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunity to pursue your PhD in South Africa. The University of Pretoria offers outstanding academic guidance, world-class research facilities, and a vibrant, diverse international student community.
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