Commonwealth Scholarship 2026-2027 (Masters / Ph.D.): Fully Funded UK Study

Are you dreaming of pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in the United Kingdom? Here's your chance. The Commonwealth Scholarship 2026-2027 is now open for applications. This fully funded scholarship supports international students from eligible Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the UK.

In this article, you'll learn everything about the Commonwealth Scholarship—including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step application process.

About the Commonwealth Scholarship

The Commonwealth Scholarship is offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It aims to support talented individuals with high potential to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.

This scholarship is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), reflecting the UK's commitment to the Commonwealth by fostering international development and academic partnerships.

Types of Scholarships Available

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship – For one-year full-time taught master’s programs.
Commonwealth Ph.D. Scholarship – For full-time doctoral studies, especially for applicants from least developed or fragile states within the Commonwealth.

Scholarship Benefits

For Master’s Applicants:

Full tuition fees covered by CSC and UK universities.
Return airfare from home country to the UK.
Monthly stipend: £1,378 (or £1,690 for universities in London).
Warm clothing allowance.
Study-related travel grant.
Child allowance for eligible single parents.

For Ph.D. Applicants:

All benefits provided to Master’s scholars, plus:
Support for fieldwork, including return airfare to field location.
Mid-term home visit (under specific conditions).
Spouse and child allowances, depending on family arrangements.
Disability support, based on a full needs assessment.

Note: Family allowances are a contribution and may not cover full living expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

For Master’s Degree:

Must be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country or have refugee status.
Must be a permanent resident in an eligible country.
Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours or a second-class degree with a postgraduate qualification.
Must not have the means to study in the UK without this scholarship.
Available to begin study in the UK by September 2026.

For Ph.D. Degree:

Same requirements as the Master’s category, plus:
Must not already be registered for a Ph.D. (or MPhil leading to Ph.D.) in the UK or at home.
Must provide evidence of academic qualifications and supporting documentation in the correct format.

How to Apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2026

Follow the steps below to apply:

Step 1: Online Application

Submit your application through the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's online portal.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

You’ll need to:

List all academic qualifications and any publications or awards.
Detail your employment history.
Provide three references, including one from your current employer (if applicable).
Write a Development Impact Statement covering:
1. How the scholarship aligns with global, national, and local development issues.
2. How you will apply your knowledge post-study.
3. Expected development outcomes and beneficiaries.
4. How you will measure the impact of your work.
Include a Personal Statement on your background, leadership experiences, and community involvement.
Provide a Plan of Study and Career Plans post-scholarship.

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

Ensure you include:

Proof of citizenship or refugee status.
Full academic transcripts and current enrolment documents (with certified translations if not in English).
Two signed references on institutional letterhead or with clearly identified email addresses.
A supporting statement from a UK-based supervisor (for Ph.D. applicants).

Applications without complete documentation will be considered ineligible.

Commonwealth Scholarship Deadline

Deadlines vary by country, but applications typically close in October each year. Check with your country's nominating agency or the CSC website for exact dates.

Why Apply?

The Commonwealth Scholarship offers a unique opportunity to study at top UK universities with full financial support. It is ideal for students committed to creating lasting development impact in their home countries. This scholarship does more than fund your education—it helps you become a changemaker in your community.

Learn More

For detailed information and to begin your application, visit the official Commonwealth Scholarship website.

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Scholarship 2026-2027 offers a remarkable opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in the UK, with full funding and a strong focus on sustainable development. Whether you are applying for a Master's or Ph.D., this scholarship opens doors to world-class academic programs, valuable research opportunities, and a chance to make a significant impact on global development.

By becoming part of the Commonwealth Scholarship community, you not only gain academic expertise but also become a leader equipped to drive change in your home country. If you're ready to take the next step in your academic and professional journey, start your application today and join a network of scholars dedicated to creating a better future for all.

Visit the official Commonwealth Scholarship website to learn more and begin your application process. Don't miss the chance to turn your educational dreams into reality with the support of this prestigious scholarship.