Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary 2026 – A Chance for Bright Students
If you’re a full‑time student planning to study a Postgraduate Diploma, Honours, or Master’s degree at Sol Plaatje University, the Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary for 2026 might be just what you need. This scholarship is a way to help you pay for tuition while you focus on your studies and research. Below, we’ll walk through what the bursary is, who can get it, what it covers, and how to apply.
What the Bursary Is All About
The Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary is a money‑back program that gives a scholarship to students who work hard and finish their courses on time. You need to be unemployed and full‑time when you apply. The money goes straight into your tuition account and is meant to help you keep your education going without extra stress.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Rules
For Honours and Postgraduate Diploma Students
- You must have earned an average of 65 % or higher on your undergraduate degree.
- You should have finished your bachelor’s program in the fastest time you can (the “record” time).
- You need to show that you are not working a job right now. This proof is required because the bursary is for people who don’t have a paid job.
For Master’s Degree Students
- You need a 65 % or higher average from your Honours or Postgraduate Diploma.
- If you have a research project as part of your Master’s, you must have scored 65 % or higher on that project.
Important Note
If you are employed, you’re not eligible for this bursary. It’s only for students who are looking for a scholarship because they have no job.
What the Money Covers
The scholarship will pay for your tuition fees for one academic year. It does not cover things like rent, food, books, or daily living costs. Think of it as a way to cover the direct cost of your classes so you can concentrate on learning.
Rules You Need to Know
- The award lasts for only one academic year – you can’t carry it over.
- It is only for tuition; it cannot be used to pay any overdue fees.
- Every year you need to fill out a new application if you want to keep receiving the money.
These rules help the university keep the program fair for everyone.
How Much Work Is Expected?
If you get the bursary, you must help out at the university. The amount of work depends on what you’re studying:
- Honours and Postgraduate Diploma students must do 6 hours of service each week.
- Master’s students need to put in 8 hours each week.
This could mean helping professors, working with students, or doing other academic tasks that help the campus community. The service is a part of the bursary agreement, so you need to keep it up while the scholarship is active.
Ready to Apply? Here’s How
Download the Application Form – Click the link below to get the PDF.
Download the Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award Application Form 2026Fill it Out – Make sure every field is clear and all the required documents (like your grades and proof of unemployment) are attached.
Send It in – Email the completed application to pga@spu.ac.za. Double‑check that everything is in before you hit send.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
The application window closes on 28 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. If you’re interested, it’s smart to start the process early. The sooner you finish and send in your paperwork, the better your chances of getting the bursary.
Final Thoughts
The Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary is a great way to get some tuition help while you pursue advanced studies. If you meet the eligibility criteria and you’re ready to contribute a few hours to the campus community each week, this scholarship could help you focus on what really matters: learning and research.
Apply before the deadline, keep your paperwork in order, and enjoy the opportunity to study without the heavy burden of tuition costs. Good luck!