The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) offers prestigious, fully funded scholarships and fellowships to talented individuals from Commonwealth countries. Established in 1960, the programme has supported over 27,000 scholars in pursuing advanced studies, research, and professional development across a wide range of disciplines.
Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), these awards aim to support sustainable development and global collaboration. Scholarships are aligned with six key 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
Learn more about Commonwealth Scholarships below. If you would like to find funding to study in the UK, contact our expert team today.
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships
- Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships – For one-year taught postgraduate programmes
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships – For students from low- and middle-income countries
- Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships – For part-time master’s study from home
- Commonwealth PhD Scholarships – For full-time doctoral study in the UK
- Commonwealth Split-site PhD Scholarships – For joint research between UK and home institutions
- Commonwealth Professional Fellowships – For mid-career professionals to enhance skills
- Gender and Sexuality Fellowships – For research and advocacy in equality and inclusion
What the Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition fees at the approved UK university
- Monthly living allowance: £1,378 outside London, £1,516 in London
- Return airfare from home country to the UK
- Warm clothing allowance and child allowance (for single parents)
- Additional support for study-related travel and research costs
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country
- Be unable to afford UK study without the scholarship
- Be under 40 years of age (recommended, not strictly enforced)
- Hold a relevant academic qualification (bachelor’s for master’s, master’s for PhD)
- Submit all required documents in the correct format
Selection Process
Applications must be submitted via the National Nominating Agency in the applicant’s home country. Selection is based on:
- Academic merit
- Quality of the study or research proposal
- Potential impact on the applicant’s home country
Required Documents
- Valid passport copy
- Admission letter from a UK university
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Up to 10 publications or awards (if applicable)
- Employment history and relevance to chosen programme
- Three referees, including one current employer
- Development impact statement
- Personal statement
- For PhD applicants: a detailed research proposal
FAQs
Who is eligible for a Commonwealth Fellowship?
The eligibility criteria for Commonwealth Fellowships may differ according to the specific fellowship. Specific fellowship programmes may have additional requirements related to work experience, academic achievements, and the chosen field of study. Generally, citizens or permanent residents of Commonwealth countries who have completed the required degree or equivalent qualification as per the eligibility of the particular programme are awarded this fellowship.
Who is eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
The eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 are similar to those for the Commonwealth Fellowships. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of Commonwealth countries and have completed the required degree or equivalent qualification. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific scholarship and the chosen field of study.
How much is the stipend for a PhD in a Commonwealth Scholarship?
The stipend for a PhD under the Commonwealth Scholarship depends on the host country and the specific scholarship. Usually, the scholarship provides financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. For example, in addition to tuition fees and other expenses, one receives a living allowance at the rate of £1,236 per month or £1,516 per month for those at universities in London.
What does the Commonwealth Scholarship cover?
The Commonwealth Scholarship typically covers various expenses for the recipient’s study and stay abroad. This includes tuition fees, a living allowance or stipend, airfare to and from the host country, research-related travel costs, and an arrival allowance. The scholarship may also include additional benefits such as thesis grants, fieldwork support, and support for family members accompanying the recipient.
