Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you a high-achieving postgraduate student aspiring to pursue a PhD at one of Africa’s leading research institutions? The Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering vital financial support to outstanding doctoral candidates across a wide range of disciplines. This prestigious scholarship is designed to attract and retain top local and international research talent who are committed to advancing knowledge, innovation, and societal impact through doctoral research.
As a globally recognised research-intensive university, Stellenbosch University is renowned for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong industry and international partnerships. Through its doctoral funding opportunities, the University invests in the development of future academics, researchers, and thought leaders who will contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s development and the global knowledge economy.
The Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship typically provides funding support towards tuition fees and a living stipend, helping students focus fully on their research. In addition to financial assistance, successful candidates benefit from access to world-class research facilities, experienced supervisors, interdisciplinary collaboration, and an intellectually stimulating academic environment.
By applying for the Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship 2026/2027, doctoral candidates gain more than just funding, they join a vibrant research community that supports innovation, critical inquiry, and academic growth at the highest level.
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
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Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, funding value, application process, and closing date for the Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Application 2026/2027.
About Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University is one of South Africa’s leading research-intensive institutions, internationally recognised for academic excellence and innovation. Within the university, the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences is one of ten faculties and offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across the humanities and social sciences.
The Faculty covers disciplines in:
- Arts: Drama, Music, Visual Arts
- Languages: African Languages, Afrikaans and Dutch, Ancient Studies, English, Linguistics, and Modern Foreign Languages
- Social Sciences: Geography and Environmental Studies, History, Information Science, Journalism, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, and Social Anthropology
The Faculty is known for interdisciplinary scholarship, strong postgraduate supervision, and impactful research that addresses both local and global challenges.
About the SU Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2026/2027
The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences invites applications for the SU Doctoral Scholarship for the 2026 academic year.
Fields of Study Covered
Scholarships are awarded for PhD research projects aligned with research areas supported by departments and centres within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Applicants must propose a research project that fits within the Faculty’s existing academic and research strengths.
Scholarship Value and Duration
Successful applicants will receive funding of up to R420 000, awarded over a three-year period, subject to satisfactory academic progress and compliance with university requirements.
This funding is intended to support students undertaking full-time doctoral research.
Eligibility Requirements for Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria to be considered:
- May be a South African citizen or an international student
- Must be 40 years old or younger
- Must have completed a full MA research thesis
- Must apply for admission to Stellenbosch University (registration and supervisor confirmation are not required at application stage)
- Must intend to pursue full-time PhD studies
- Proposed research must fall within fields supported by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Must be able to commence studies in January 2026
- Must have achieved a minimum of 70% in the final year of the previous degree
- Must demonstrate excellent academic performance
Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in disqualification.
How to Apply for Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship 2026/2027
Applicants must download and complete the official Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Application Form (.docx).
Required Supporting Documents
The following documents must be submitted together with the completed application form:
- Certified copy of South African ID (South African citizens)
- Certified copy of passport (international students)
- Certified copy of full academic transcript
- Certified copy of MA degree certificate or foreign equivalent
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If not yet available, official confirmation that the degree will be awarded before December
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- Motivational letter (maximum 600 words)
- Research pre-proposal outlining your research question and conceptual framework (maximum 500 words)
- Writing sample, such as:
- MA thesis (for PhD applicants)
- Published academic articles relevant to the proposed research
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Submission Method
Applications must be submitted via email to: graduateschool@sun.ac.za
Email subject line: SU Doctoral Scholarship Application
Important: The completed application form must be saved and submitted in PDF format.
Important Notes for Applicants
Applicants should take note of the following before applying:
- The application form must be completed in English only
- Prior contact with a relevant department in the Faculty is recommended but not compulsory
- Applicants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the availability of suitable supervisors within the Faculty
- Scholarships will not be awarded for coursework Master’s programmes where the thesis component is less than 180 credits
Closing Date for Stellenbosch University Doctoral Scholarship Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 4 August
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the closing date.
Contact Details of Stellenbosch University
For further information or scholarship-related enquiries, contact:
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Contact Person: Dr Candice Steele
Email: graduateschool@sun.ac.za
