Application Deadline: October 15, 2024
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for 2025/2026 are now open for applications. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships offer highly talented and driven individuals the chance to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable development. The scholarships are specifically designed for those who would not have the financial means to pursue education in the UK otherwise.
As part of three Master’s programs offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), the agency-nominated Master’s program reflects the UK government’s commitment to international development. The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) guides the CSC’s efforts, showcasing the UK’s long-standing dedication to the Commonwealth.
By selecting individuals with exceptional talent and potential from diverse backgrounds, and supporting them to become leaders and innovators upon returning to their home countries, the CSC aligns sustainable development with UK national interests while fostering international partnerships.
Scholarship Benefits
Each scholarship includes:
- Round-trip airfare from the Scholar’s home country to the UK and back after the award period (dependants’ travel costs are not covered).
- Full coverage of tuition fees, as agreed between the CSC and the UK university.
- A monthly living allowance of £1,378, or £1,690 for students attending universities in the London area.
- Warm clothing allowance (where applicable).
- Study travel grant for travel related to studies within the UK or abroad.
- Child allowance of £590 per month for the first child and £146 per month for the second and third child under 16 if the scholar is a single parent, widowed, or divorced, and the children live with them in the UK.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person.
- Be a permanent resident of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be ready to start their academic program in the UK in September 2025.
- By September 2025, possess a first degree with at least upper second-class (2:1) honours, or a lower second-class degree along with a relevant postgraduate qualification (such as a Master’s degree). The CSC typically does not fund second Master’s degrees unless justified by the applicant.
- Demonstrate financial need for the scholarship to study in the UK.
- Submit all required documentation in the specified format.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic achievements
- Quality of the research proposal
- Potential impact on the development of the applicant’s home country
How to Apply
The deadline for submitting applications is 16:00 BST (15:00 GMT) on October 15, 2024. The scholarships are for studies beginning in the UK in September/October 2025.
In addition to applying to the CSC, candidates must secure a nomination from one of two sources:
- National nominating agencies (the primary application route)
- Selected non-governmental organizations and charitable bodies
