UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you an international or refugee student with strong academic potential who dreams of studying at one of Africa’s leading universities? The UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering vital financial support to eligible students who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT). As a globally recognised institution committed to academic excellence, diversity, and social justice, UCT provides these scholarships to support talented students from across the continent and beyond, particularly those facing financial hardship due to displacement or limited access to funding.
The UCT International and Refugee Scholarship offers financial assistance that may cover tuition fees and, in some cases, additional study-related costs, depending on funding availability and individual circumstances. This scholarship is aimed at academically deserving international students and recognised refugees who have been admitted to UCT and demonstrate both financial need and the ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment. Through this initiative, UCT reinforces its mission to foster inclusive education and empower students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and home countries.
By applying for the UCT International and Refugee Scholarship 2026/2027, students gain more than just financial relief, they access world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant multicultural campus experience at one of the top-ranked universities in Africa.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, application process, and closing date for the UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Programme 2026/2027.
About University of Cape Town (UCT)
The University of Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest university and one of the most prestigious academic institutions on the African continent. Located in the leafy suburb of Rondebosch, Cape Town, UCT is globally recognised for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
UCT’s mission is to develop graduates who demonstrate strong leadership qualities, social responsibility, and a commitment to social justice. Its alumni play influential roles in government, business, civil society, and industry across South Africa and the broader African region.
About the UCT International and Refugee Scholarship 2026/2027
Fields Covered
UCT invites international students and refugees to apply for a limited number of scholarships for the 2026 academic year.
Levels of Study Funded
The scholarship supports full-time postgraduate studies at the following levels:
- Honours
- Master’s
- Doctoral (PhD)
Fields of Study
The scholarship is available for ANY field of study offered at the University of Cape Town, provided all eligibility criteria are met.
Scholarship Value, Coverage and Renewal
The UCT International and Refugee Scholarship is a supplementary award, meaning it contributes towards the student’s Cost of Attendance. Applicants must be able to secure additional funding to cover outstanding study and living expenses.
Scholarship Values
- Honours: R25 000
- Master’s: R30 000
- Doctoral: R35 000
All awards are granted on a competitive basis, with preference given to senior postgraduate candidates.
Scholarship Renewal
Students who maintain satisfactory academic progress may renew the scholarship annually for the minimum duration of their qualification:
- 1 year for Honours
- 2 years for Master’s
- 3 years for Doctoral studies
Eligibility Requirements for UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Application 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria:
- Must be an international student with a valid passport OR a refugee with valid refugee documentation
- Must have applied for or been accepted to study at the University of Cape Town
- Must be registered for full-time postgraduate studies (Honours, Master’s or Doctoral)
- Must be completing their first postgraduate qualification at the relevant level
- Must complete the qualification within the minimum prescribed period
- Must have achieved a minimum of 55% in major subjects
- Must not be employed full time (may not work more than 20 hours per week)
Failure to meet any requirement will result in the application not being considered.
Applicants Who Will NOT Be Funded
The following applicants are not eligible for funding:
- Undergraduate students
- Students enrolled for Postgraduate Diplomas, Certificates or HDE
- Students registered for Honours in Economic Analysis of Financial Markets (EAFM)
- Students registered for MMed or MBA programmes
- Part-time students
- Students enrolled in programmes with less than 33% research components
How to Apply for UCT International and Refugee Scholarship 2026/2027
Applicants must download and complete the official application form:
- Download and complete the: UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Application 2026 (.docx)
Students seeking renewal of an existing scholarship must complete UCT Form 10F.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- Passport (international students) OR refugee papers (refugees in South Africa)
- Two academic referee reports from university-level lecturers or supervisors
(May be attached to the application or emailed to pgfunding@uct.ac.za) - Academic transcripts from all previous institutions
- English-translated academic records (if applicable)
- Unofficial transcripts (UCT students only)
- One-page research abstract (Master’s and Doctoral applicants)
- Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications
- Section E form (.docx) for Master’s by Research or Doctoral applicants with an identified supervisor
Submission Instructions
- Combine all documents into one PDF file, in the order listed on the application form
- Submit applications via email to: pgfunding@uct.ac.za
- Use the email subject line:
“International & Refugee Application – Your Full Name” - Applicants are strongly advised to read UCT Handbook 14: Financial Assistance for Postgraduate Study and Postdoctoral Research
Closing Date for UCT International and Refugee Scholarship Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 30 August
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to submit well before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
Contact Details of University of Cape Town (UCT)
For further information or assistance, contact the University of Cape Town Postgraduate Funding Office:
Tel: 021 650 3622