Want to Study a Master’s or PhD without the money crunch?
UNISA is opening a 2026 scholarship window that can help you cover the cost of your tuition, and in some cases the money you need for research. If you’re a student who wants to finish a master’s or doctoral program, this is the chance to get a big chunk of those fees paid for you.
When to Apply
- Bursary application opens: 15 October 2025
- Bursary application closes: 19 December 2025
- You must be officially enrolled by: 31 January 2026 for the funding to kick in
If you miss the 31 January deadline, the scholarship may not be activated even if you qualify. All applications go through the myUnisa website or mobile app—no paper forms, no email, no postal mail. Every year a new applicant must submit a fresh application, even if you already had a scholarship before.
What the Scholarship Pays
| Program | How much | How long |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s by research | Up to R55 000 | 3 years |
| Master’s by coursework | Up to R25 000 | 3 years |
| Doctoral by research | Up to R80 000 | 4 years |
| Doctoral experimental research | Up to R120 000 | 4 years |
- The money is only for tuition fees and basic research costs.
- The scholarship does not cover laptops, books, accommodation, or any past debts.
- If you’re a South African citizen, 80 % of the funds go to you; 20 % goes to international students.
Who Can Apply
Returning Students (Already Received Funding)
- South African or international master’s or doctoral students who are still working on the same funded program.
New Students (Never Funded Before)
- Master’s by research students who have passed their research proposal by 31 January 2026 (proposal needed by November 2025).
- Master’s by coursework students who have passed at least two coursework modules by the same date (unless you’re still waiting for results).
Time Limits
- Master’s returning students: first registered no more than three years ago (2023‑2025 for the 2026 window).
- Doctoral returning students: first registered no more than six years ago (2020‑2025 for the 2026 window). Approved delays may still let you apply.
Research Progress
- If your program is over three years old, you probably need two research chapters finished plus your proposal passed.
- If it’s two years old, one chapter plus proposal may be enough.
Who’s Not Eligible
- Permanent staff at UNISA.
- First‑year master’s or doctoral students.
- Students in the Business Leadership MBA program.
- Students registered for special study programmes like PGCE, certificates, or non‑degree courses.
- Students who already hold a postgraduate degree at the same or higher level.
- Students who have submitted a thesis or dissertation for examination.
Quick FAQ Sessions
| Date | Time (CAT) | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| 15 October 2025 | 10 :00 | Microsoft Teams |
| 16 October 2025 | 10 :00 | Microsoft Teams |
These sessions are a good time to ask any questions before you send in your application.
How to Apply
- Go to the myUnisa portal (the online link or app).
- Fill out the form between 15 October 2025 and 19 December 2025.
- Keep a copy of your payment receipt if you paid tuition yourself; it might be needed if you win the scholarship later.
After You Apply
- Results go straight to your mylife email.
- If you’re not selected and you paid the tuition yourself, you can cancel your registration before the official cancellation deadline.
- Keep your proof of payment handy for potential refunds.
Appeals
| Program | Appeal period | Supervisor support |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s & Doctoral | 1 May – 7 May | Yes |
| PGDip/Honours | 1 April – 7 April | No |
If you think a mistake was made, you can appeal within those windows. Make sure you have the required documentation and your supervisor’s endorsement if it’s a master’s or doctoral case.
PGDip / Honours Scholarships
Who Can Apply
- Returning students: South African PGDip or Honours students who previously earned funding and had a 50 % average on funded modules.
- New students:
- NQF 7 alumni finishing their degree by 31 January 2026 with a 60 % overall average (including any repeated modules).
- NQF 8 second‑year students who passed at least three postgraduate modules with a 60 % average by the same date.
Who Can’t
- Permanent staff at UNISA.
- International students.
- Students in certain graduate business programmes.
- Students only doing special study programmes, BTech only, or non‑degree modules.
- Those who already finished a post‑graduate qualification at NQF 8–10 level.
Final Thoughts
This scholarship is a big help if you want to finish a master’s or doctoral degree at UNISA but need a financial boost. Remember the key dates, submit everything online, and double‑check that you meet all the rules before you hit “submit.” Good luck, and if you have questions, join one of the Q&A sessions on Teams. You can also find more details and start your application at the myUnisa portal.