Commonwealth Master's Scholarships

Commonwealth Master's Scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to enable talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required for sustainable development. Aimed at candidates who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK, these prestigious scholarships contribute to the UK's international development objectives and wider overseas interests, supporting future leaders across Commonwealth partner countries.

Who it's for

The scholarship is intended for citizens or permanent residents of eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification. Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed master's study in the United Kingdom directly connects to one of the six Commonwealth development themes, showing potential for high developmental impact in their home countries upon graduation.

What it covers

The award covers approved return airfare from the scholar's home country to the United Kingdom, full tuition fees paid directly to the host university, and a monthly stipend (living allowance) of £1,347 per month (or £1,652 per month for universities in the London metropolitan area). Scholars also receive a warm clothing allowance, an arrival allowance, thesis grants where applicable, and study travel grants for academic visits within the UK.

• Citizen of or refugee status granted by an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country.
• Permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Available to start academic studies in the UK by September 2027.
• Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower degree accompanied by a relevant Master's degree.
• Unable to afford to study in the United Kingdom without this scholarship.

• Approved round-trip airfare from home country to the UK.
• Full approved tuition fees covered directly with the host university.
• Monthly living stipend of £1,347 per month (£1,652 per month in London).
• Warm clothing allowance where applicable upon arrival.
• Study travel grant toward approved study-related travel in the UK.
• Generous family allowance packages for eligible single parents or accompanied scholars.

1. Review the six Commonwealth development themes on the CSC official portal.
2. Apply through the CSC's online application system before the October 20, 2026 deadline (16:00 BST).
3. Apply to a designated nominating agency (National Nominating Agency or eligible NGO) in your home country.
4. Upload all required supporting documentation, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, and two references.
5. Secure admission to an eligible full-time master's program at a participating UK university.