About North-West University (NWU)
The North-West University (NWU) was established on January 1, 2004, through the merger of the University of North-West, Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, and the Sebokeng Campus of Black University, Vista. NWU aims to be a respected institution across Africa, known for engaged scholarship, social awareness, and a caring ethos. It strives for excellence in research, teaching, and making a positive impact on society.
NWU Master’s and Doctoral Bursaries 2025-2026
The North-West University offers postgraduate and doctoral bursaries to support outstanding students who lack the financial resources for their education. These bursaries are available to both full-time and part-time students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.
Master’s Bursary:
- Full-time students: R28,800 per year.
- Part-time students: R14,400 per year.
- Valid for two years.
- Total bursary value over two years: R57,600 for full-time students and half that amount for part-time students.
Doctoral Bursary:
- Full-time students: R31,000 per year.
- Part-time students: R15,500 per year.
- Valid for three years.
- Total bursary value over three years: R93,000 for full-time students.
Applicants must have achieved a minimum average of 60% in their preceding completed Honours degree or postgraduate course. Doctoral students can receive bursaries from multiple sources, up to a maximum of R261,900 per annum, though this is subject to adjustment by the university.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Full-time and part-time students enrolling in a first-time, full prescribed postgraduate Masters or Doctoral degree program.
- Students from other universities can apply with their previous academic records.
- Applicants must have graduated Cum Laude from their previous qualifying degree.
- Working students who hold a job and receive a salary.
- Students receiving bursaries from organizations such as the National Research Foundation (NRF), SETA, and other external institutions.
How to Apply:
- Fill out the online application form.
- Complete all mandatory fields with accuracy.
- Read the conditions for qualification before starting the application.
- NWU students do not need to apply online; the bursary is automatically awarded if conditions are met.
Documents Required:
- Students from other universities must include an academic record of their previous degree to avoid disqualification.
Closing Date: The application deadline is March 31.
Late Applications: Late applications are accepted with written approval from the faculty.
Contact Details: For inquiries, contact the appropriate campus where you are registered:
- Mafikeng Campus:
- Phone: 018 389 2516/2646/2372
- Email: MC-PostGradBurs@nwu.ac.za
- Potchefstroom Campus:
- Phone: 018 26666/7/8/9
- Email: PC-studyfees@nwu.ac.za
- Vanderbijlpark Campus:
- Phone: 016 910 3157/3134
- Email: VC-PostGradBurs@nwu.ac.za