The University of South Africa (UNISA) acknowledges the financial challenges many postgraduate students face.

To reduce these burdens and promote their academic excellence, UNISA offers the UNISA Postgraduate Bursary.

This prestigious award provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing their Master’s and Doctoral degrees.

About the UNISA Postgraduate Bursary

The UNISA Postgraduate Bursary aims to assist South African and international students with their research activities and tuition fees.

They also hope to attract and support high-caliber postgraduate students who contribute to quality research outputs as well as promote equity and easy access to postgraduate education for deserving individuals.

The bursary covers tuition fees only for the duration of your studies, subject to annual renewal and satisfactory academic performance.

It does not include funding for laptops, accommodation, textbooks, or other study materials.

UNISA Postgraduate Bursary Application Form

The application process for the UNISA Postgraduate Bursary is online and easy to follow through. All you need to do is successfully complete the following easy steps:

  1. Visit the UNISA website and go to the Student Funding & Bursaries section.
  2. Select “Postgraduate Bursaries.”
  3. Choose the relevant bursary type: Master’s or Doctoral.
  4. Download the application form and carefully review the guidelines and terms & conditions.
  5. Complete the form electronically with accurate and complete information.
  6. Gather the required supporting documents: academic transcripts, research proposal, motivation letter, etc. (refer to the Bursary Guidelines for specific details).
  7. Submit your application online through the myUnisa portal before the closing date.

UNISA Postgraduate Bursary Requirements

If you wish to be considered for the UNISA Postgraduate Bursary, you must:

  1. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident, or an international student with valid study permit.
  2. Be registered for a Master’s or Doctoral degree at UNISA in a recognized field of study.
  3. Demonstrate academic excellence with a strong academic record.
  4. Submit a compelling research proposal aligned with UNISA’s research priorities.
  5. Provide a motivational letter outlining your financial need, academic goals, and contribution to the chosen field.
  6. Meet the specific requirements outlined in the relevant Bursary Guidelines for Master’s or Doctoral programs.

UNISA Postgraduate Bursary Closing Date

The application deadline for the 2024 UNISA Postgraduate Bursary has already passed on January 25th, 2024.

However, keep an eye on the UNISA website for updates regarding the 2025 application period, which usually opens in November of the preceding year.

For inquiries about the UNISA Postgraduate Bursary, you can contact them through your myLife e-mail account or send them your queries through email to: [email protected].