If you are planning to pursue your Honours degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and come from a previously disadvantaged background, the UKZN Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarship could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
This prestigious award supports academically strong students who not only excel in their studies but also demonstrate leadership, ethical vision, and a commitment to community service. Below is everything you need to know about the scholarship, including eligibility, required documents, and the 2026 closing date.
About the Scholarship
The Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Awards are dedicated to Honours candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who intend to progress to Master’s and PhD studies.
The award is named in honour of Archbishop Denis E. Hurley, whose life and legacy were defined by leadership, ethical vision, social justice, and community development. The scholarship aims to reflect these values by supporting students who show academic merit and a strong commitment to uplifting society.
According to UKZN’s official notice, “The Hurley Scholars” are expected to be meritorious academic performers with exceptional leadership qualities and involvement in community service.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to students enrolling for an Honours degree at UKZN. It specifically targets candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who:
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Are enrolling for Honours studies
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Intend to progress to Master’s and PhD qualifications
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Demonstrate strong academic performance
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Show exceptional leadership qualities
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Have an ethical vision for society
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Are actively involved in community service
Other sources further highlight that applicants must have a proven academic record and demonstrate leadership and community involvement
This scholarship is not just about marks. It looks at the whole person — your values, leadership track record, and long-term academic goals.
Fields of Study
The award is primarily associated with Honours studies and is broadly linked to disciplines within the human and social sciences. However, earlier notices indicate that Honours studies across various disciplines at UKZN may be considered.
Because specific criteria can vary slightly each year, applicants are advised to carefully review the official attachment released by UKZN with the annual notice.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
While the official 2026 notice does not list exact financial amounts, previous descriptions of the scholarship confirm that it provides funding support to disadvantaged but academically excellent candidates to pursue Honours studies.
In practice, this support enables recipients to focus on their studies without the heavy financial burden that often comes with postgraduate education.
Required Documents
Applicants must complete the official application form and submit supporting documentation. Based on previous cycles and scholarship guidelines, you will typically need:
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Completed Application Form
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Detailed Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages)
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Full academic transcript
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Most recent degree certificate
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At least one referee report (commenting on leadership and community involvement)
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Abstract of your research dissertation proposal (maximum 3 pages) OR a motivation for your chosen research area
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A one-page motivational letter explaining why you should be considered
In some instances, a signed motivation from your Head of School or Dean may also be required.
Incomplete applications or missing documents may result in disqualification, so it’s important to double-check everything before submission.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted to the Financial Aid Advisor of your respective College at UKZN.
Each College — such as Humanities, Health Sciences, Law and Management Studies, or Agriculture and Engineering — has designated contacts who handle submissions.
When submitting your application:
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Ensure all documents are clearly scanned.
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Use the correct email subject line as instructed in the official notice.
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Submit before the deadline.
The official UKZN notice also instructs candidates to refer to the attached document for further important instructions. Always rely on the latest official version to avoid errors.
Closing Date for 2026
The closing date for the 2026 Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarship is:
13 March 2026
Applications submitted after this date will not be considered. It is strongly recommended that you submit at least a few days before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
The Impact of the Scholarship
The scholarship has already transformed the lives of many UKZN students. For example, one Honours student described how the scholarship helped him overcome financial challenges and focus fully on his academic and entrepreneurial goals.
Recipients are often first-generation graduates and students who aspire to continue into postgraduate research and academic careers. Many awardees express a desire to give back to their communities and work in areas such as psychology, education, theology, and leadership.
This highlights the deeper purpose of the scholarship — not just funding education, but nurturing ethical leaders committed to social change.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Because this scholarship is highly competitive, here are a few practical tips:
1. Focus on Your Leadership Story
Provide concrete examples of leadership roles you have held — whether in student structures, community organisations, churches, NGOs, or academic societies.
2. Demonstrate Community Impact
The selection committee values community involvement. Show how your work has positively impacted others.
3. Align with Hurley’s Values
Research Archbishop Hurley’s legacy and reflect those values in your motivation letter — ethical leadership, justice, service, and social transformation.
4. Present a Clear Academic Vision
Since the award encourages progression to Master’s and PhD studies, clearly outline your long-term academic goals.
Final Words
The UKZN Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarship is more than just financial support — it is an investment in future scholars, community leaders, and ethical changemakers.
If you are enrolling for Honours at UKZN in 2026 and meet the criteria, this could be your opportunity to secure funding and advance your academic journey toward postgraduate studies.
With the closing date set for 13 March 2026, now is the time to begin preparing your documents, refining your motivation letter, and reaching out to referees.
Apply early, apply thoroughly, and give yourself the best possible chance to become one of the next Hurley Scholars.
