Sol Plaatje University invites eligible students to apply for the Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 28 February 2026
This bursary provides financial support for full-time Postgraduate Diploma, Honours and Master’s students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to advancing knowledge through academia, research and innovation.
About the Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award Bursary 2026
The Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award is aimed at supporting academically deserving postgraduate students who are studying full time and are currently unemployed. The bursary is merit-based and focuses on students who complete their qualifications within the minimum prescribed time.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the relevant criteria below to be considered.
Honours and Postgraduate Diploma Applicants
Applicants must:
- Have obtained an average of 65% or higher in the relevant undergraduate degree
- Have completed the undergraduate qualification in minimum (record) time
- Provide proof of unemployment, required for service obligations
Master’s Degree Applicants
Applicants must:
- Have obtained an average of 65% or higher in the relevant Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma
- Have achieved 65% or higher in the research project component, where applicable
Note:
The bursary is intended for full-time unemployed students only. Employed applicants do not qualify.
What the Bursary Covers
The Postgraduate Merit Award provides cover for:
- Tuition fees only
The bursary does not cover accommodation, meals, books or living expenses.
Award Conditions
Applicants should take note of the following conditions:
- The bursary is awarded for one academic year only
- The award does not carry over to the next academic year
- The bursary is restricted to tuition fees on the student account
- The bursary cannot be used to pay outstanding fees
- A new application is required each year
Service Requirements
Successful bursary recipients are required to contribute to the academic environment through faculty or university-assigned duties.
- Honours and Postgraduate Diploma students: 6 hours per week
- Master’s students: 8 hours per week
These service requirements form part of the bursary agreement.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete and submit the official application form.
Download Application Form
Download the Sol Plaatje University Postgraduate Merit Award Application Form 2026 here:
Submit Applications To
Completed applications and enquiries must be emailed to:
Email: pga@spu.ac.za
Ensure that all required information and supporting documents are included before submission.
Important Reminder
Applications close on 28 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications may not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing this funding opportunity.