Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites eligible students to apply for the Postgraduate Merit Bursary Award for the 2026 academic year. SPU states that this award supports full-time Postgraduate Diploma, Honours and Master’s students who demonstrate strong academic performance and are committed to further study.
At a glance
- Who it’s for: Full-time, unemployed Postgraduate Diploma, Honours and Master’s students at SPU who meet the academic requirements.
- What it covers: Tuition fees only (restricted to tuition fees on the student account).
- Service obligation: Yes. Recipients complete faculty/university service requirements (Honours/PGDip: 6 hours/week; Master’s: 8 hours/week).
- Key dates: Closing date: 28 February 2026.
- How to apply: Email the completed application and supporting documents to pga@spu.ac.za.
Who’s offering this?
This bursary award is offered by Sol Plaatje University (SPU) as part of its postgraduate funding support.
What’s on offer
- SPU states the award is granted for one academic year and does not carry over.
- A new application is required each year.
- The award is intended for full-time unemployed students — SPU states that employed applicants do not qualify.
What it covers
SPU states that the bursary covers tuition fees only. SPU also notes that the award is restricted to tuition fees on the student account and that it cannot be used to pay outstanding fees.
Eligibility checklist
SPU lists the following requirements for full-time applicants:
Honours or Postgraduate Diploma applicants
- Minimum average of 65% or higher in the relevant undergraduate degree.
- Completed the undergraduate degree in minimum/record time (as stated by SPU).
- Provide proof of unemployment for service requirements.
Master’s applicants
- Minimum average of 65% or higher in the relevant Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma.
- Minimum average of 65% or higher in the research project component, where applicable.
Documents to prepare
The official application form includes a supporting documents checklist. The checklist lists:
- Certified copy of Identity Document
- Official academic transcript
- Copy of your tuition account (statement)
Closing date
28 February 2026
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying as an employed student (SPU states employed applicants do not qualify).
- Submitting after the closing date.
- Leaving out required documents (certified ID, transcript, tuition account statement).
- Assuming the award covers living costs — SPU states it covers tuition fees only.
- Trying to use the award to settle outstanding fees (SPU states it cannot be used for outstanding fees).
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Read SPU’s official bursary notice and download the application form.
- Complete the application form for the 2026 Postgraduate Merit Award.
- Attach the required supporting documents (certified ID, academic transcript, tuition account statement).
- Email your completed application and documents to pga@spu.ac.za before 28 February 2026.