Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships in the UK 2026-27 (Fully Funded)

The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026-27 represent one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students from Commonwealth nations to pursue postgraduate study in the United Kingdom. Fully funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), this program is designed to nurture outstanding scholars who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing to sustainable development in their home countries.

Covering all major costs—including tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and additional allowances—the Commonwealth Scholarship provides a life-changing opportunity for students to obtain a world-class education in the UK without financial barriers. Beyond funding, the program emphasizes global networking, cultural exchange, and professional growth, equipping graduates to drive innovation and progress across various sectors in their home nations.

Why Apply for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship?

The Commonwealth Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a leadership and development program. Selected scholars:

• Gain access to leading UK universities and cutting-edge research opportunities.
• Receive full financial support, including monthly stipends, travel grants, and child allowances.
• Join an international network of scholars and alumni committed to building stronger, more inclusive societies.
• Benefit from exposure to new perspectives, global best practices, and professional mentorship.

For talented individuals who lack the financial means to study abroad, this scholarship opens the door to transformative academic and professional experiences.

Scholarship Overview

• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Funded By: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree (1–2 years)
• Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
• Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries

Benefits of the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026-27

Scholars selected for the program receive an extensive package of financial and academic support:

• Return airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
• Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the program.
• Monthly stipend: £1,347 or £1,652 (for students studying in London).
• Warm clothing allowance for colder months.
• Thesis or dissertation grant to cover research-related costs.
• Study travel grants for academic visits inside or outside the UK.
• Child allowance for single parents: £590/month for the first child, £146/month for the second and third child.
• Additional support for scholars with disabilities, where applicable.

These benefits ensure that scholars can dedicate their full attention to academic work and research, free from financial pressure.

Eligible Countries

Applicants must come from a Commonwealth member country. For 2026–27, eligible nations include:

Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, St Helena, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, The Gambia, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026-27, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country, hold refugee status in one, or be a British Protected Person.
• Be permanently resident in a Commonwealth country.
• Be ready to begin academic studies in the UK by September 2026.
• Hold at least a first degree at upper second-class (2:1) honours level, or a lower second-class degree plus a relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., a Master’s degree).
• Demonstrate financial need, showing they cannot afford to study in the UK without a scholarship.
• Provide all required supporting documentation in the correct format.
• Justify their application if applying for a second Master’s degree.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

• Completed online application form via the CSC portal.
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• Proof of citizenship or refugee status (passport, ID, or relevant documents).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• References from at least two individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional work.
• Research proposal or study plan (if required by the chosen program).
• Justification statement (for applicants pursuing a second Master’s degree).

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026-27 is 14 October 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

The application process involves several key steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all requirements listed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
2. Select a Nominating Agency: Apply through a national nominating agency, university, or another approved organization. Each country may have its own procedures.
3. Complete the CSC Online Application: Submit your application through the official CSC portal before the deadline.
4. Upload Required Documents: Provide all academic transcripts, references, and proof of citizenship in the required format.
5. Submit Justification (if necessary): If applying for a second Master’s degree, explain why it is essential for your academic or career goals.
6. Secure Nomination: Ensure your application is officially nominated by your agency or institution.
7. Await Results: The CSC will review all applications, and successful candidates will be contacted.

Final Thoughts

The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026-27 offer more than just financial assistance—they are a gateway to leadership, global networks, and meaningful impact. By studying in the UK, scholars gain the knowledge, skills, and exposure needed to drive innovation and contribute to the development of their countries and beyond.

If you are a motivated student from a Commonwealth nation with strong academic potential and a passion for development, this scholarship could be your path to achieving both your personal and professional goals.

Apply now before the deadline: Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship 2026-27