The GEM Elite Scholarships are aimed at students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing to their communities and fields of study. The scholarships are open to candidates across various disciplines, offering them the opportunity to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees at one of Africa’s leading research-intensive universities.
The Stellenbosch University GEM (Globally Engaged Mentorship) Elite Scholarships are prestigious awards designed to attract and support outstanding international students who wish to pursue their postgraduate studies at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. These scholarships are part of Stellenbosch University’s broader initiative to foster global engagement and academic excellence by bringing together talented individuals from around the world.
Recipients of the GEM Elite Scholarships benefit from comprehensive financial support, which typically includes coverage of tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and travel costs. This generous funding package allows scholars to focus fully on their studies and research without the burden of financial constraints. In addition to financial support, the scholarships provide recipients with access to academic mentorship, professional development opportunities, and the vibrant academic community at Stellenbosch University.
One of the key objectives of the GEM Elite Scholarships is to create a diverse and inclusive academic environment at Stellenbosch University by attracting students from different cultural, geographic, and academic backgrounds. By fostering global engagement, the scholarship program enriches the academic experience for all students and contributes to the university’s mission of promoting excellence in research and education.
In addition to their academic pursuits, GEM Elite Scholars are encouraged to engage in leadership and community service activities, both within the university and in the broader community. This emphasis on leadership development and social responsibility aligns with Stellenbosch University’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also capable of making meaningful contributions to society.
The GEM Elite Scholarships reflect Stellenbosch University’s dedication to internationalization and its goal of becoming a globally recognized institution of higher learning. By attracting top international talent, the university enhances its academic reputation and strengthens its position as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in Africa.
The Stellenbosch University GEM Elite Scholarships are prestigious awards that provide exceptional international students with the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees at a leading South African university. Through comprehensive financial support, mentorship, and leadership development, the scholarships aim to cultivate global leaders who will contribute to academic excellence and social impact both in Africa and around the world.
The Graduate School of Economic and Management Sciences (GEM) is currently accepting applications for its full-time, funded doctoral programme. Applications will be considered for the following two scholarship opportunities:
- GEM Elite Doctoral Scholarships
- GEM Doctoral Scholarships
Benefits
- Full-time doctoral scholarships, valued at R200 000 per year for three years.
- Full-time doctoral scholarships valued at R150 000 per year for three years.
Requirements For The Stellenbosch University GEM Elite Scholarships
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for a scholarship:
- A candidate must meet the minimum criteria for admission to a PhD programme at Stellenbosch University. This requires a master’s degree in the relevant discipline.
- The bursaries are open to South African citizens and foreign nationals. Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged South African citizens.
- Candidates must have achieved a minimum mark of 70% to be eligible for the GEM Elite Scholarships.
- Only applications in one of the Faculty’s Research Themes (follows below) will be considered.
There are limited scholarships available. Submission of an application, even if you meet all of the criteria, does not guarantee funding.
The final allocation of scholarships is made at the discretion of the Graduate School governing board and is subject to funding availability; and where the Faculty is able to appoint a suitable supervisor.
The Graduate School reserves the right to not award any scholarships.
Selection Process
Due to the large number of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the Graduate School.
If you have not received a response from the Graduate School Office by the 18th of October 2024, your application should be considered unsuccessful.
Application Documents
- In addition to the completed application form, the following supporting documents are required:
- Academic records: Full particulars of ALL previous and current tertiary studies. Please submit copies of certified diploma/degree certificates AND official study records (transcripts). Please note that academic records from student portals will not be acceptable.
- ID or passport: A certified copy of your ID (South African) or passport (international) photo page
- Proof of competency in English: Applicants either need to provide proof that they have obtained their qualifications from tertiary institutions where English is the language of instruction, or proof of English Language proficiency. This evidence must accompany your application and must not be older than 24 months from the date of application.
Method of Application
Follow these steps to apply for the 2024 cohort of the Graduate School:
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before you submit an application.
- Download and complete the Application Form
- You will be required to write a letter motivating your suitability for the scholarship (maximum length: one A4 page), as well as a research concept note (no maximum length) on a research topic which you intend to study during your doctoral studies. These should be completed on the application form in the relevant sections.
- Please consult the 2024 Research Themes (below) to guide you in choosing a research topic. Research topics outside the listed research themes can be accommodated only if it falls within the current research themes that are active in one of the Faculty’s academic departments.
- Submission of your application:
- Completed and signed application forms + supporting documents should be submitted to the Graduate School Office via email (GEM@sun.ac.za) by 15 August 2024. No late applications will be accepted.
- Please ensure that your three references are informed that their referee letters, stating your capability to complete doctoral studies, should be sent directly to the Graduate School via email (GEM@sun.ac.za) on or before 15 August 2024.
- Applications which are incomplete will not be considered.
Contact details:? Any queries regarding the application process can be sent to GEM@sun.ac.za.
Application Deadline: August 15, 2024.
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