Target Audience: International students from eligible Commonwealth countries
Scholarship Type: Fully funded, UK Government-sponsored
Level: Master’s and PhD (research-based)
Introduction: What Is the Commonwealth Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Scholarship is a flagship UK Government scholarship program aimed at supporting talented individuals from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue advanced education in the United Kingdom. Administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), the scheme is designed to promote equity, development, and international collaboration.
Since its inception in 1960, over 30,000 scholars have benefited from this life-changing opportunity, with alumni now in leadership roles across sectors such as government, education, health, science, law, and international development.
Whether you dream of becoming a university professor, an engineer advancing climate resilience, or a public health leader, the Commonwealth Scholarship can equip you with the tools, networks, and education needed to achieve it.
Objectives of the Scholarship
The program aligns with six core development themes:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion, and opportunity
These themes guide both selection and project impact expectations, ensuring that scholars return home ready to make a measurable difference.
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth offers several different awards, each with unique eligibility and focus:
| Type | Level | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship | Taught Master’s | Development impact |
| Commonwealth PhD Scholarship | Doctoral Research | Research excellence and development |
| Split-site PhD Scholarship | Partial PhD in UK | Joint UK & home institution research |
| Distance Learning Scholarship | Online Master’s | Professionals in key sectors |
| Shared Scholarship | Co-funded with UK unis | Master’s in development-related fields |
| Medical Fellowships | Short-term training | Clinical and public health skills |
This article focuses primarily on the 2026 Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship and PhD Scholarship for full-time, on-campus study.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria for 2026)
General Requirements (Master’s & PhD):
- Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an eligible Commonwealth country
- Must be permanently residing in that country
- Must not already be studying in the UK or have studied there on a UK Government-funded scholarship
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree with honors (for Master’s applicants)
- For PhD: Must hold a relevant Master’s degree
- Must be unable to afford study in the UK without the scholarship
Additional Notes:
- Candidates should demonstrate academic merit, leadership potential, and a strong development-oriented career plan
- Preference may be given to candidates applying to development-related courses
List of Eligible Countries (sample)
- Africa: Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia
- Asia: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Caribbean & Americas: Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Belize
- Pacific: Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands
A complete list is published each year by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully-funded award that removes all financial barriers to graduate study in the UK.
| Expense | Covered? |
|---|---|
| University tuition fees | ✅ Full |
| Monthly living allowance | ✅ ~£1,347/month (£1,652 in London) |
| Return airfare to the UK | ✅ Yes (economy class) |
| Thesis/research costs | ✅ As applicable |
| Warm clothing allowance | ✅ For colder climates |
| Visa and travel expenses | ✅ Some reimbursed |
| Study travel grant | ✅ For conferences or fieldwork |
| Child/spouse allowance | ✅ Sometimes available for PhD scholars |
This robust funding package ensures you can focus entirely on your studies and leadership growth.
Host Universities and Courses
You can apply to any UK university or higher education institution that offers a suitable Master’s or PhD program aligned with your academic background and development goals.
Popular Institutions for Commonwealth Scholars:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Manchester
- University of Warwick
- King’s College London
- University of Sussex
- University of Glasgow
Courses must begin in September/October 2026 and be full-time, taught on campus (not distance or part-time).
Key Dates and Application Timeline (2026 Intake)
While the official calendar for 2026 will be confirmed in mid-2025, the following timeline is based on previous cycles:
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | September 2025 |
| Applications Close | December 2025 |
| National Nominations (by local agencies) | January–February 2026 |
| Interviews | February–March 2026 |
| Final Selection | April–May 2026 |
| University Admissions Confirmed | May–July 2026 |
| Visa and Pre-departure Process | July–August 2026 |
| Course Begins | September–October 2026 |
Always check deadlines on the CSC official site and your country’s nominating agency (e.g., Ministry of Education or a national scholarship board).
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Confirm Eligibility
Use the CSC’s official eligibility checker at
🔗 https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
2. Research Courses and Universities
- Choose development-focused programs related to your background and country’s needs
- Apply directly to the universities in parallel (some deadlines may be earlier)
3. Apply via the CSC Online System
- Submit an application via the CSC portal
- Applications must be supported by two references and all required documents
4. Apply through National Nominating Agency
Most countries require a dual application—first to CSC and also to your nominating agency, such as:
- Nigeria: Federal Scholarship Board
- India: Ministry of Education
- Pakistan: Higher Education Commission (HEC)
5. Interview (if shortlisted)
- Panel of national and international experts
- Questions focus on leadership, academic plans, and development impact
6. Accept Offer and Complete University Admission
If selected, you must formally accept the scholarship, secure your university admission, and begin visa arrangements.
Writing a Strong Application: What to Focus On
- Development impact: Clearly show how your study will help address key challenges in your country.
- Leadership: Highlight initiatives you’ve led, teams you’ve built, or communities you’ve influenced.
- Academic excellence: Provide strong academic references and transcripts.
- Career plan: Your vision for 5–10 years should align with your country’s development and global goals.
- Course justification: Explain why your chosen course is the best fit and how the UK offers unique value.
Required Documents
Prepare these documents before starting your application:
- Copy of passport or national ID
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two academic or professional references
- Admission offer letter(s) (can be submitted later in some cases)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
For PhD applicants: You must submit a detailed research proposal and name a potential supervisor at your UK university.
After the Scholarship: Your Commitments
- You are expected to return home and contribute to development within your country for at least two years after your scholarship.
- You’ll join a global alumni network of professionals committed to progress and innovation.
- You’ll be invited to participate in alumni events, workshops, and collaborations within and beyond the Commonwealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
A: Yes, but you must justify why another postgraduate degree is necessary for your development goals.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: No official age limit, but candidates must demonstrate a clear development impact and leadership capacity.
Q: Can I apply to multiple scholarships?
A: Yes, but if selected by multiple programs (e.g., Chevening and Commonwealth), you must choose one.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: PhD scholars may be eligible for dependent allowances. Master’s scholars usually cannot bring dependents unless self-funded.
Final Words
The Commonwealth Scholarship is more than a prestigious award—it’s a platform for impact. It’s about investing in people with ideas, ethics, and energy to solve real-world problems. Whether your focus is climate change, healthcare, governance, or economic development, this opportunity allows you to become the expert your country needs.
Applications for the 2026 cycle open in September 2025. Don’t wait. Start your preparations now:
- Choose your field and courses
- Reach out to professors and universities
- Begin crafting your personal statement
- Speak to past scholars and mentors
If you believe in progress—and believe you can lead it—the Commonwealth Scholarship is for you.
