International scholarships and study opportunities open up possibilities for South African students who wish to pursue studies abroad, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Studying abroad is an excellent way to expand your horizons, experience new things, meet people from all over the world and get an international education. The new skills you could gain, both in and out of the classroom can strengthen your potential contribution to society and even to a potential employer if you make the most of your experience.
There are a number of scholarship opportunities currently available for South African students to undertake university study and skills development in other countries. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) engages in several international scholarship partnerships that provide opportunities for South Africans to pursue studies in other countries at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There are also many opportunities that are managed by other international, agencies and/or government.
The DHET also works with various other governments and institutions to promote and support the offering and uptake of international scholarships. At this time, the Department does not fully fund any scholarships for international studies and our role varies from programme-to-programme, across the different opportunities that are promoted on our website.
In our partnerships, post-graduate studies are prioritized, particularly for students intending to pursue a career in academia or in the scarce skills areas. There are however a limited number of opportunities for undergraduate studies available.
Where the DHET is responsible for the selection or nomination of students for scholarships, this is done in a transparent process which is rigorous and geared towards the selection of the best possible students with the highest potential for success. A strong academic record is important, but so is a clear motivation for your application, articulation of your goals for your future career and a commitment to social and economic development in South Africa.
The priority fields of study include science, engineering and technology as well as humanities and social sciences. More specific details are included with each call for applications. Each scholarship has different application dates, criteria and eligibility.
Not all scholarships are fully funded, and may require recipients to have their own funds available for some requirements. This information should be outlined in the call for applications. If you are unsure, please ask the relevant agency.
Be sure to read the information documents carefully, before and during the application process!
