Ready to advance your research career in Africa’s top university for free? The Stellenbosch University Postgraduate Scholarship Programme (PSP) 2026 is open for international students from all countries to pursue honours, master’s, or PhD degrees across all faculties. This flagship initiative, supporting over 200 emerging researchers annually, offers full and partial funding to build Africa’s research talent at SU, ranked 3rd in Africa (Times Higher Education 2025).
This simple guide covers everything about the Stellenbosch University PSP Scholarship 2026, from benefits to application steps, using clear words for everyone, including non-native English speakers. It’s more than funding; it’s about joining a vibrant campus in the Western Cape, collaborating on global projects, and contributing to South Africa’s innovation economy. Ready to apply from September 1 to October 31, 2025? Let’s get started!
Why Choose the Stellenbosch University PSP Scholarship? A Quick Overview
Stellenbosch University (SU), South Africa’s oldest (founded 1918), excels in research with 44 first-level doctoral programs and partnerships with 200+ global institutions. The PSP, SU’s premier funding scheme, cultivates diverse talent, welcoming internationals to foster inclusivity. You’ll study in Stellenbosch’s wine region, accessing 12 disciplines from engineering to fine arts.
Imagine debating ideas in historic halls, hiking Table Mountain nearby, or interning at innovation hubs. Graduates lead in policy, tech, and academia, driving continental change. For 2026, PSP emphasizes sustainability and digital transformation, aligning with SDGs. Full funding removes barriers, letting you focus on breakthroughs.
Ready for details? Let’s break it down.
Stellenbosch University PSP Scholarship 2026 Details
This scholarship funds 1-year honours, 2-year master’s, or 3-year PhD programs across SU’s faculties, including theology, law, and agri-sciences. Full awards cover all costs; partial based on merit/need. Applications open September 1, 2025, and close October 31, 2025, for 2026 start (conditional on admission).
Separate apps for admission and PSP; faculty-specific criteria apply. New for 2026: Increased spots for interdisciplinary PhDs and virtual interviews for internationals.
Host University and Country
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Host University | Stellenbosch University (SU) |
| Funded By | Stellenbosch University |
| Country | South Africa |
| Financial Coverage | Fully Funded or Partial |
SU’s Stellenbosch campus blends vineyards with modern research facilities.
Eligibility Rules for 2026
PSP targets promising researchers. Here’s what you need for 2026:
- Nationality: All countries (South Africans/internationals).
- Education: Honours: Bachelor’s. Master’s: Honours/bachelor’s. PhD: Master’s.
- Academics: Honours: 60%+ in final undergrad year. Master’s: 65%+ in honours. PhD: 65%+ in master’s. (Faculty-specific; e.g., higher for sciences.)
- Age: No limit.
- Language: English (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+; waived for English-medium degrees).
- Other: Full-time study; no full-time job (>20 hours/week); no lower/same-level repeat; prior NSFAS/ISFAP undergrad needs funding proof. Commit to publications (master’s/PhD).
GPA borderline? Strong proposal/refs help. A friend from Kenya got PhD funding with 68% via her climate research. Potential wins!
What’s Covered? Benefits of Stellenbosch PSP Scholarship 2026
Funding levels vary by faculty/merit. Here’s what you get for 2026:
Full Scholarship:
- Honours: R110,000 (1 year).
- Master’s: R140,000/year (up to 2 years).
- PhD: R160,000/year (up to 3 years).
- Covers tuition, living, accommodation, insurance.
Partial Scholarship: Pro-rated based on need (e.g., 50% tuition).
Extras: Research support, networking events. New for 2026: Mentorship for internationals.
Note: Covers essentials in affordable Stellenbosch (~R10,000/month); you handle travel. Enjoy campus hikes and wine tastings!
What Documents Do You Need?
Faculty-specific; upload via portal. Core list for 2026:
- Online Form: PSP app (faculty link).
- ID/Passport: Copy.
- Transcripts: Full academic records.
- Degree Cert: Bachelor’s/honours/master’s (or proof).
- Thesis: Previous (if applicable).
- Supervisor Letter: Support from SU prof.
- Writing Sample: Thesis/essay.
- Research Proposal: 500 words (preliminary).
- CV: Publications, awards, experience.
- Funding Proof: If prior NSFAS/ISFAP.
Tip: Proposal should align with SU priorities, like water security in Africa.
More Opportunities:
- Université Paris-Saclay Scholarships 2026 (Application Process)
- Shandong University Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
How to Apply: Simple Steps for 2026
Two separate apps: admission then PSP. Here’s how from September 1, 2025:
- Apply for Admission: Via SU portal; select faculty/program. Deadlines vary (e.g., July 31, 2025 for PhD).
- Check PSP Call: Review faculty criteria in 2026 Call Document.
- PSP App: Submit via faculty link upload docs.
- Submit: By October 31, 2025. No fee.
- Review: Committees assess; results December 2025-January 2026.
- Accept: Enroll; start 2026.
New for 2026: Online submission for all faculties. Apply admission first!
Deadline: Don’t Miss Out
Admission: Varies by faculty (July-October 2025). PSP: October 31, 2025.
Extra Tips for Winning
- Faculty Fit: Tailor proposal to SU strengths, like agri-sciences (top in Africa).
- Early Admission: July 2025 for PhD to align PSP.
- New Priorities: 2026 focuses decolonized research—highlight inclusivity.
- Refs: Secure supervisor early.
Common Questions: Stellenbosch PSP Scholarship FAQ
Who’s Eligible for PSP 2026?
Internationals/South Africans with relevant degree, 60-65%+ average, full-time commitment.
Can Students from Kenya, India, etc., Apply?
Yes! All nationalities.
What Programs Are Available?
Honours/master’s/PhD across 12 faculties (e.g., engineering, theology).
GPA Requirement?
Honours: 60%+. Master’s/PhD: 65%+ (faculty-specific).
How Do I Apply?
Admission first via portal; then PSP by October 31, 2025.
Renewable?
Yes, up to program duration with progress.
Insurance Included?
Yes, comprehensive medical.
Visas Work?
SU guides student visa post-offer.
Results Out?
December 2025-January 2026.
Part-Time Work?
No full-time; max 20 hours/week.
Win This Scholarship?
Strong proposal, academics, supervisor support. Apply early.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Stellenbosch Journey Today
The Stellenbosch University PSP Scholarship 2026 funds your postgraduate dreams in South Africa’s research powerhouse. From R160,000 PhD stipends to global impact, it’s empowering. I’ve seen scholars from Kenya and India pioneer sustainable solutions post-SU. You could be next!
Act now: Apply admission, draft proposal, and submit PSP by October 31, 2025. Questions? Comment below. Make 2026 your year at Stellenbosch!
Official Site: SU Postgraduate Funding
