Commonwealth Scholarships 2026‑27 (UK)

Overview

The Commonwealth Scholarships are prestigious scholarships funded by the UK government through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). They aim to support citizens of developing Commonwealth countries to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in the UK, helping to build capacity and promote sustainable development in their home countries.

Who is eligible?

• Applicants must be citizens of developing Commonwealth countries.

• Must be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.

• Applicants should demonstrate academic merit and the potential to contribute to development in their home country.

• Must meet the English language proficiency requirements of the chosen UK university.

• The scholarship is primarily aimed at candidates who cannot afford to study in the UK without financial support.

Levels of Study

• Master’s Degree (typically 1-year taught programs)

• PhD Degree (usually 3–4 years of research)

Coverage and Benefits

• Full tuition fees for the duration of the degree.

• Monthly living allowance: Approximately £1,378

• Return airfare: Economy-class flights between the scholar’s home country and the UK at the beginning and end of the scholarship.

• Other allowances:

  • Thesis/dissertation allowance (for PhD scholars).

  • Study travel allowance (for PhD scholars).

  • Arrival allowance (for new students).

  • Warm clothing allowance (where applicable).

• Visa fees: The scholarship covers the cost of the UK student visa application.

• Health coverage: Access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during the study period.

Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm that your country is eligible (usually most Commonwealth countries classified as developing).

2. University Choice: You must apply to a UK university that accepts Commonwealth scholars or is on the CSC’s approved list.

3. Application Submission:

   • Applications are generally submitted online through the CSC portal or via the nominating agency in your home country.

   • Some countries require nominations by national bodies or government departments.

4. Supporting Documents: Academic transcripts, references, research proposal (for PhD), personal statement, and proof of English proficiency.

5. Deadline: The deadline varies by country but the call for applications for the 2026-27 academic year is currently open and generally closes in the first half of 2025.

Key Features

• The scholarship strongly focuses on candidates who will contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries.

• Scholars benefit from networking opportunities through the Commonwealth Scholarship community and alumni events.

• It’s one of the most competitive scholarships available for students from developing Commonwealth nations.

Countries Eligible (examples)

• Bangladesh

• Ghana

• India

• Kenya

• Nigeria

• Pakistan

• Sri Lanka

• Uganda

• Zambia
  (and many other developing Commonwealth countries)

Important Notes

• The selection is highly competitive, and academic excellence combined with leadership potential and commitment to development goals are critical.

• Applicants for PhD scholarships typically need a strong research proposal aligned with their country’s development needs.

• Some countries have their own nomination processes, so check with your local Commonwealth scholarship nominating agency.