The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the United Kingdom has officially announced the opening of applications for the 2026–2027 intake of its fully funded Master’s and PhD scholarships. These prestigious awards are designed to provide exceptional students from eligible Commonwealth nations with the opportunity to pursue higher education in the UK—an opportunity many would otherwise be unable to afford.
Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the scholarships are aimed at nurturing future leaders who can drive sustainable development in their home countries. Since the program’s establishment in 1959, more than 30,000 scholars have benefited, making impactful contributions in fields such as education, health, governance, science, and civil society upon their return.
Categories of Scholarships
1. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
These are intended for academically strong candidates who aspire to undertake full-time taught Master’s programs at recognized UK universities. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of, or hold refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be a permanent resident in the country of application.
- Hold an undergraduate degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) standard by September 2026.
- Demonstrate financial need and inability to study in the UK without scholarship support.
2. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
These awards support individuals committed to pursuing doctoral research in the UK, with a focus on building institutional and research capacity in their home countries. Eligibility requirements include:
- Citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Permanent residence in the applicant’s home country.
- A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification by September 2026.
- Proof of academic excellence and research potential.
- Applicants must not be enrolled in a PhD or MPhil-to-PhD program in the UK or elsewhere before the start date.
Scholarship Coverage
Both Master’s and PhD recipients will receive comprehensive financial support. This includes full tuition fees, return airfare, and a monthly stipend of £1,347 (or £1,652 for students in London). Additional provisions cover warm clothing, study travel, thesis costs for doctoral candidates, and family allowances where applicable.
Selection Criteria
The CSC emphasizes three main areas in evaluating candidates:
- Academic merit and evidence of excellence.
- Quality of the study plan or research proposal.
- Potential impact on the applicant’s home country, especially in relation to the CSC’s six priority development themes:
- Science and technology for development.
- Strengthening health systems.
- Promoting global prosperity.
- Enhancing peace, security, and governance.
- Building resilience and crisis response.
- Expanding access, inclusion, and opportunities.
Deadline and Application Process
Applications must be submitted online no later than 14 October 2025 at 16:00 BST. The CSC has urged prospective candidates to begin preparations early, ensuring they meet documentation requirements and liaise with nominating agencies or universities where necessary.
A Gateway to Global Leadership
The Commonwealth Scholarships are more than financial aid packages—they are platforms for transformation. By engaging with world-class academic institutions and international networks, scholars are empowered to develop leadership skills and contribute meaningfully to global and local challenges.
The CSC underscored that these awards are intended for individuals who are not only academically accomplished but also deeply committed to driving sustainable progress in their communities.
