The University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for graduate students who want to make significant contributions to research.

This scholarship provides R300,000 (about $16,215) annually to cover the costs of study, accommodation, travel, and living expenses.

In this post, we’ll cover the details of the scholarship, its requirements, benefits, and how to apply if you’re interested.

2025 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Summary

Host Country: South Africa
Study Abroad: Study in Africa
Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
Eligible Countries: Commonwealth Countries
Reward: Full Scholarship | $16,215 Stipends | Accommodation | Travel Costs
No IELTS Required
Deadline: September 11, 2024

University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship Details:

The University of Pretoria is a research-focused university. Through the Commonwealth Scholarship, they’re looking for doctoral students who can make significant research contributions.

As part of South Africa’s role in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, the University of Pretoria has funds for three doctoral scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africans). This is called the University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship, and it’s awarded on a competitive basis.

The University of Pretoria has a strong reputation for academic excellence, especially in its research activities. You can find more info about their research on their website.

Requirements for 2025 University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship

To be eligible for the Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship, you must:

• Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, except South Africa.
• Plan to study at the University of Pretoria starting in 2025.
• Have applied to study at UP for the 2025 academic year.
• Have identified a potential supervisor.
• Have submitted your academic records to the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
• Have completed your postgraduate/Master’s degree at least two years before applying.
• Be under 40 years old.
• Not be a current or former PhD or Master’s student at the University of Pretoria.

Benefits of Commonwealth Scholarship at University of Pretoria 2025

This Doctoral Scholarship is valued at R184,000 per year, covering:

• Accommodation and living costs
• Fees
• Medical Aid
• Books/Stationery

Additional costs covered by the University include:

• A flight ticket to South Africa from your home country once you have your study permit.
• A return flight ticket to your home country upon program completion.
• Shuttle service from OR Tambo International Airport to Pretoria and back.
• UP application fee, medical aid fee, and study visa costs (refunded upon proof of receipt).

Supplementary Funds:

The Commonwealth Scholarship holder may have other external bursaries/grants/scholarships with a maximum total value of R300,000 per year, including this scholarship. The UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship must be the primary award.

Required Documents for Commonwealth Scholarship at University of Pretoria

To apply, candidates must submit the following documents:

• The UP Online application Ref “T” number or 2025 student number provided by UP on their UP Portal.
• A written motivation from the prospective doctoral supervisor at UP, confirming the availability of research funding.
• An outline (one A4 page) of the proposed research work.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – no more than 3 pages.
• Proof that study leave will be granted if the scholarship is awarded (if applicable) by your current employer.
• Copy of a valid passport.
• Full academic transcripts of all qualifications obtained (not certificates).
• Two completed reference forms from different academics/supervisors who know your academic performance (Reference form attached).

How to Apply for University of Pretoria Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 (Step by Step)

To apply for the 2025 Commonwealth University of Pretoria Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should:

1. Visit the scholarship webpage (click the button below).
2. Download and fill out the scholarship application form.
3. Download and fill out the Reference Form.
4. Submit the application form for the UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship to the University of Pretoria with the required documentation attached.

Send the forms and documents as a single PDF to pgbursary@up.ac.za with the subject heading “UP Commonwealth 2025”.

Apply Here

Deadline: September 11, 2024

FAQs

1. Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
No, all non-EU/EEA applicants to the University of Pretoria’s PhD programs will automatically be considered for the Commonwealth Scholarship.

2. Can I apply if I am currently studying at the University of Pretoria?
No, this scholarship is not available to current or former PhD and Master’s students at the University of Pretoria.

3. What happens if I miss the application deadline?
If you miss the deadline, your application will not be considered. Make sure to submit all required documents by September 11, 2024.