Want to advance your studies in the UK? The Commonwealth Scholarships are open to international students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who want to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in the UK. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and potential to contribute to sustainable development in the home country.
Objective:
Commonwealth Scholarships offer full financial support to successful applicants. This includes complete coverage of tuition fees at UK host universities, a monthly stipend to cover living costs, return airfare to and from the UK, and allowances for arrival and departure. Depending on the scholarship type, scholars may also receive additional support such as thesis or conference travel grants, and extra funding for dependents or disability-related needs. This comprehensive funding package allows recipients to focus entirely on their studies and development goals while in the UK.
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships
- Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships – For students who would not otherwise afford to study in the UK
- Commonwealth PhD Scholarships – For doctoral study in the UK at eligible universities
- Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships – For PhD candidates to conduct part of their research in the UK
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships – For Master’s degrees jointly funded by CSC and UK universities
- Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships – For part-time Master’s study through online learning
- Commonwealth Professional Fellowships – For mid-career professionals seeking practical training
To find out more visit the Commonwealth Scholarship partners page.
Key Development Themes
All CSC scholarships are aligned with one or more of the following six development themes:
- Access, inclusion, and opportunity
- Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
Applicants must explain how their chosen course and career plans align with these themes.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for a Commonwealth Scholarship, applicants must be citizens of, or hold refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country. They should hold a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours standard. Applicants with a lower second-class degree must also have a relevant postgraduate qualification. Candidates must demonstrate that they are unable to fund their studies in the UK without financial support from the scholarship. Additional criteria may apply depending on the specific scholarship category.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- Valid passport or national ID as proof of citizenship or refugee status
- Complete academic transcripts from all higher education institutions attended
- Degree certificates for undergraduate and, if applicable, postgraduate qualifications
- Two references from academic or professional sources (PDF format)
- A clearly written development impact statement that outlines how your studies will support development in your home country
- An admission letter from a UK university (if already received)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) summarizing academic and work experience
- Any supporting evidence of awards, publications, or professional achievements (optional but recommended)
Before beginning your application, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You can find detailed requirements for each programme under the ‘Candidate Eligibility’ section on the specific scholarship pages.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission application portal. The application window usually runs from September to December each year.
Complete list of steps to apply:
- Visit the official CSC website and select your home country
- Review the available scholarship types and select the one you’re eligible for
- Read through the eligibility criteria and application guidance carefully
- Create an online profile on the CSC application portal
- Complete the application form with accurate personal, academic, and professional information
- Upload required documents, including passport, transcripts, degree certificates, references, and development impact statement
- Ensure all uploaded documents are in the correct format (typically PDF)
- Submit the application before the deadline listed on the portal
Note: Some scholarship types may also require a separate university admission application. Always check the exact requirements based on your selected scholarship type and host institution.
Supporting Documents Checklist
- National ID or passport
- Bachelor’s and/or Master’s transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Two academic or professional references
- Development impact statement
- Proof of university admission (if already offered)
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Academic merit
- Quality of the study plan
- Potential impact of the work on the development of the applicant’s country
A well-structured application that clearly demonstrates the link between the course and development goals is essential.
Additional Tips
- Begin preparing early to give referees enough time
- Keep your documents clearly labeled and in PDF format
- Make sure your development impact statement is focused, realistic, and country-specific
To understand how applications are evaluated, refer to the Commonwealth Scholarships selection criteria page for full details.
Why Study in the UK with a Commonwealth Scholarship?
Studying in the UK through a Commonwealth Scholarship gives you access to world-class universities, expert faculty, and advanced research facilities. It allows you to gain knowledge and practical skills that directly support the development of your home country. Scholars benefit from a tuition-free education, living allowance, and additional support, removing financial barriers. Beyond academics, you become part of a global network of Commonwealth Scholars and Alumni who are leaders and changemakers in their respective fields.
Commonwealth Scholarships are part of the UK’s commitment to international development and education. They are ideal for students who are academically strong and committed to using their skills to make a difference in their communities.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Application portal important dates: Applications for the 2025/2026 academic year are now open, with a deadline of 16:00 GMT on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.
Always refer to the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website for country-specific deadlines and detailed timelines.
Final Notes
- Applications are free of charge
- Deadlines vary by country and scholarship type – check the official CSC site for the latest updates
- Scholarships cannot be deferred to another academic year
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
For common questions and answers, visit our Commonwealth Scholarships FAQ page.
Learn More
Start preparing now and take your next step toward studying in the UK with a fully funded opportunity. For full eligibility details, updated deadlines, and application guidance, visit the official Commonwealth Scholarships website.
You may also explore other UK funding options:
