Commonwealth Scholarships: UK Master's & PhD Guide
Discover how to secure a Commonwealth Scholarship for a fully funded Master's or PhD in the UK. Learn about coverage, eligible countries, the dual-application route through national nominating agencies, and proven strategies to maximize your success.
Graduates Corner Team
Author
Commonwealth Scholarships are fully funded UK government awards for Master's and PhD students from eligible Commonwealth countries. They are administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC).
Level: Full-time Master's and PhD degrees in the UK
Coverage: Full tuition fees, return airfare, and a monthly stipend (£1,712, or £2,000 in London)
Application Route: You must apply to both the CSC system and a nominating agency in your home country
Key Focus: Development impact and strong academic merit
What Does a Commonwealth Scholarship Cover?
Tuition Fees: Paid in full, directly to your host university.
Living Allowance: Monthly stipend of £1,712 (increased to £2,000 per month for universities in the London metropolitan area).
Travel: Approved return airfare between your home country and the UK.
Additional Grants: Study travel grants, family allowances (for single/widowed parents), and Research Training Support Grants for PhD scholars.
Core Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Commonwealth Scholarship, applicants generally must:
Be a citizen or permanent resident of an eligible Commonwealth country.
Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honors standard (or a lower second class degree plus a relevant postgraduate qualification).
Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship funding.
Commit to returning to your home country to contribute to its development after graduation.
Note: There is no upper age limit for the Master's scheme.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Identify your Nominating Agency. Find your country's national nominating agency (such as your ministry of education or higher education commission) and check their specific internal deadlines.
Step 2: Submit to the Nominating Body. Complete their requested application process so they can nominate you to the CSC.
Step 3: Complete the CSC Online Application. Apply through the CSC Central online system, selecting your preferred UK universities and courses.
Step 4: Upload References. Ensure your required reference letters are submitted through the portal by the deadline.
Step 5: Selection & Results. The CSC reviews nominations and announces final award results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Commonwealth Scholarships fully funded?
Yes, they cover full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, return flights, and various auxiliary grants.
Can I apply directly to the CSC?
No. The CSC does not accept direct applications; you must apply through an approved national nominating body alongside the online portal.
Can I study a PhD with this scholarship?
Yes, Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are available for eligible candidates from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
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