Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 | Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 are now open, The aim of the CSFP is to provide a rich learning experience to students from Commonwealth countries and to foster mutual cooperation and understanding among member states. Over the years, it has grown to encompass a wide array of scholarships and fellowships for students and researchers across various fields. Read through
Deadline: 25th June 2024 – 11th September 2024 (Open)
Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2025
The Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship is a beacon of academic excellence and international cooperation. It empowers individuals to pursue advanced research, contribute to their fields, and drive positive change in their home countries. Through its rigorous selection process, generous benefits, and focus on development impact, the scholarship ensures that the Commonwealth’s brightest minds can achieve their full potential and make a lasting difference in the world.
For prospective applicants, the scholarship represents not just an opportunity for personal advancement but a chance to contribute to the greater good. It is a testament to the power of education and international collaboration in shaping a better future for all.
The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) was established at the first Commonwealth Education Conference in 1959 and is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in the world.
Programee Structure
Funding Type: Bursaries/Scholarships
Study Level: Doctoral
Student Nationality: Commonwealth Countries
Study Location: University of Pretoria
Sponsor: UP Internal Bursary
Faculties
- 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
Benefits
The Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship offers numerous benefits, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships for PhD students. These benefits include:
Scholarship: The value of this Doctoral Scholarship will be R184 000 p.a.
- Tuition Fees: The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees at the host institution, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede academic progress.
- Living Allowance: Scholars receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses. This allowance varies depending on the host country but is designed to ensure a comfortable standard of living.
- Travel Costs: The scholarship often includes a return airfare from the scholar’s home country to the host country, reducing the financial burden associated with international travel.
- Research Support: Scholars may receive additional funds to support their research activities. This can include funding for fieldwork, conference attendance, and the purchase of essential materials and equipment.
- Health Coverage: Many scholarships provide health insurance or medical coverage, ensuring that scholars have access to necessary healthcare services during their study period.
- Professional Development: The scholarship includes opportunities for professional development, such as workshops, seminars, and networking events. These opportunities enhance the scholar’s academic and professional skills.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria, which ensure that only the most deserving and capable individuals are selected. These criteria typically include:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country. This includes countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Canada, Australia, and many others.
- Academic Qualifications: Candidates should have an excellent academic record, usually with a first-class honors degree or equivalent. They should have completed a master’s degree or be in the final stages of completing one.
- English Language Proficiency: Since the medium of instruction in most host countries is English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language. This is often proven through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Proposed Research: Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal that outlines the objectives, methodology, and potential impact of their study. This proposal should align with the strategic priorities of their home country and the host institution.
- Nomination: In many cases, applicants need to be nominated by their home country’s nominating agency. This agency could be the Ministry of Education, a designated university, or another recognized body.
Application Process
In order to be considered for this scholarship, candidates must submit the Application form of the UP PhD Commonwealth Scholarship to the University of Pretoria with the following documentation attached:
- The UP Online application Ref “T” number or 2025 student number provided to the Applicants by UP on their UP Portal.
- A written motivation from the prospective Doctoral supervisor that you have identified from UP. The said motivation must confirm 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 place of current work,
- Copy of a valid passport.
- Full academic transcripts of all qualifications obtained (not certificates).
- Two completed reference forms from two different academics/supervisors who have current knowledge of the Applicant’s academic performance (Reference form attached).
Apply Doctoral Commonwealth Scholarship 2025
