Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary, offering tuition support to academically strong postgraduate students who are currently unemployed.
The bursary is available to full-time Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master’s students registered at Sol Plaatje University and is aimed at helping deserving students continue their studies without the burden of tuition fees.
Applications close on 28 February 2026.
What Is the Postgraduate Merit Award?
The Postgraduate Merit Award is a tuition-only bursary awarded to high-performing postgraduate students who complete their qualifications within the required timeframe. The funding is paid directly toward tuition fees and is intended to support students who are not employed while studying.
This bursary is awarded for one academic year only and must be reapplied for annually.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify, applicants must be unemployed and registered full-time at Sol Plaatje University.
Honours and Postgraduate Diploma students must:
- Have achieved a minimum 65% average in their undergraduate degree
- Have completed their qualification within the prescribed minimum duration
- Submit proof of unemployment
Master’s degree students must:
- Hold an Honours or Postgraduate Diploma with at least 65% average
- Achieve 65% or higher in any research or mini-thesis component
Students who are employed, even part-time, are not eligible for this bursary.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees only for one academic year
It does not cover:
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books or learning materials
- Personal or living expenses
- Outstanding university debt
Academic Service Requirement
All bursary recipients are required to contribute academic service hours during the funding period:
- Honours and Postgraduate Diploma students: 6 hours per week
- Master’s students: 8 hours per week
These duties may include tutoring, departmental assistance, or other academic support activities.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Download and complete the Postgraduate Merit Award Application Form for 2026
- Attach certified academic records and proof of unemployment
- Email the completed application to pga@spu.ac.za
Applications that are late or missing documents will not be considered.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 28 February 2026.
Why This Opportunity Is Important
Postgraduate studies often come with significant financial pressure. The Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award helps reduce tuition costs, allowing students to focus on academic performance, research, and timely completion of their qualifications.
For unemployed postgraduate students with strong academic records, this bursary provides meaningful support and recognition of academic excellence.
Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: What is the Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Bursary?
A: It is a tuition-only bursary for unemployed postgraduate students studying Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, or Master’s degrees at SPU.
Q: Who qualifies for the SPU Postgraduate Merit Bursary?
A: Full-time, unemployed students with a minimum 65% academic average.
Q: What does the bursary cover?
A: Tuition fees for one academic year only. Living expenses are not covered.
Q: Is the bursary renewable?
A: No. Students must apply again each year.
Q: What is the closing date for applications?
A: 28 February 2026.
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