The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer students from Commonwealth countries the chance to pursue a two-year master’s degree at select universities across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
Application Closing Date: 4 June 2025 at 15:00 UTC
Scholarship Location: ACU Member Universities in Low and Middle-Income Commonwealth Countries including South Africa
Study Start Dates: January to July 2026 (varies by university)
The 2026 Cycle 2 applications are now open, and South African universities are proudly participating, offering a range of master’s programmes.
What the QECS Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance (stipend) for the duration of the award
- Return economy flights to the host country
- One-time arrival allowance
- Research support grant (optional and subject to approval)
Who Should Apply?
This prestigious scholarship is designed for students committed to community development, academic excellence, and international collaboration. It is a life-changing opportunity to gain a world-class education while contributing to solutions in your host country and your home nation.
Participating South African Universities and Eligible Master’s Programmes
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Start Date: 01 July 2025
Contact: MohlalaMF@tut.ac.za
Programmes Offered:
- Master of Performing Arts
- Master of Education in Educational Technology
- Master of Public Affairs
- Master of Agricultural Science
- Master of Applied Sciences
- Master of Computing
- Master of Engineering (Electrical / Management)
- Master of Business Studies in Finance
- Master of Management Sciences in Tourism Management
University of Pretoria (UP) – Start Date: 14 February 2026
Contact: ssc@up.ac.za
Programmes Offered:
- LLM in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa
- LLM in Trade and Industry Law in Africa
- MSc in Development Studies / Political Science
- MTD Science of Religion and Missiology
- MTH Practical Theology
Note: SAQA certificate and supervisor confirmation may be required for international students.
University of the Free State (UFS) – Start Date: 10 January 2026
Contact: TsoeuMR@ufs.ac.za
Programmes Offered:
- Interdisciplinary Master’s in Human Rights
- Master of Health Professions Education
- Master of Nursing
- Master of Nutrition / Dietetics / Public Health
- MSc in Geo-informatics / Physiotherapy / Occupational Therapy
University of Venda (Univen) – Start Date: 01 January 2026
Contact: Thizwilondi.nefale@univen.ac.za
Programmes Offered:
- Master of Nursing (MCUR)
- Master’s in Psychology (HSMMA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Science in Public Nutrition (MSCPNT)
General Entry Requirements
- A relevant Honours degree or equivalent (typically NQF Level 8)
- Minimum average of 65% in undergraduate studies (varies per institution)
- Submit both the university application and QECS scholarship application
How to Apply
- Choose a host country/university and a course from the current list.
- Check university-specific requirements and course details.
- Apply via the QECS portal: Click here to apply for the QECS 2026
- Submit a university application at the same time as your scholarship application.