The Commonwealth Masters Scholarships 2026 offer talented students from developing countries the opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships are designed to support individuals who would not otherwise afford to study in the UK, empowering them to contribute to the development of their home countries.
The program is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), which has supported thousands of scholars across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific to access high-quality education in the UK. These scholarships cover tuition, travel, and living expenses, making them one of the most prestigious international scholarship opportunities for students from Commonwealth nations.
About Commonwealth Masters Scholarships 2026
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarships aim to:
- Provide access to world-class education at UK universities.
- Support future leaders and innovators from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
- Strengthen educational and cultural ties between the UK and Commonwealth nations.
- Contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through advanced academic training.
These scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit, leadership potential, and the impact candidates can make in their communities upon return.
For more fully funded Master’s programs worldwide, visit our dedicated Masters Scholarships page.
Commonwealth Masters Scholarships Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Host Institutions | Selected UK universities (part of CSC network) |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Degree Level | Master’s (1-year full-time programs) |
| Eligible Countries | Developing Commonwealth member countries |
| Eligible Subjects | All fields relevant to development priorities |
| Scholarship Coverage | Tuition, airfare, stipend, allowances, visa, and study-related costs |
| Application Deadline | October 2025 (expected) |
| Program Start | September 2026 |
Benefits of Commonwealth Masters Scholarships
The scholarship provides full financial support to recipients, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage at a UK university.
- Return airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
- Monthly living stipend (amount updated annually).
- Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
- Thesis or dissertation grant (if required).
- Study travel grant for fieldwork or academic visits.
- Visa and arrival allowances.
This comprehensive package ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional growth without financial concerns.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth member country.
- Hold an undergraduate degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) standard.
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- Submit all required documents and references before the deadline.
For related opportunities, explore Undergraduate Scholarships or PhD Scholarships on ScholyHub.
Required Documents
Applicants will be asked to provide:
- Proof of citizenship or refugee status.
- Valid passport or national ID.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Two reference letters (submitted electronically by referees).
- A supporting statement from a proposed supervisor (if applicable).
- Research proposal or study plan for selected Master’s program.
- English language proficiency certificate (if required by chosen UK university).
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: September 2025 (via CSC portal).
- Deadline: October 2025 (exact date to be confirmed).
- Shortlisting & Review: November 2025 – February 2026.
- Results Announcement: March–April 2026.
- Program Start: September 2026 at selected UK universities.
How to Apply for Commonwealth Masters Scholarships 2026
- Apply through the CSC online application system (on the official Commonwealth Scholarship portal).
- Select a Master’s program at a participating UK university.
- Prepare and upload all required documents.
- Submit two references before the deadline.
- Universities and nominating agencies may have additional application processes, so applicants must check with their home country’s nominating body.
- Await shortlisting and results.
For other competitive fellowships, see global fellowship opportunities.
Explore More Opportunities
FAQs – Commonwealth Masters Scholarships
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who cannot otherwise afford to study in the UK.
2. What does the scholarship cover?
Tuition, airfare, stipend, allowances, and study-related expenses.
3. How long is the program?
One year, full-time Master’s degree at a UK university.
4. Can I apply for a PhD under this program?
No, this scheme is for Master’s degrees only. For doctoral funding, see the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships.
5. When will results be announced?
Results are typically released in March or April 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarships 2026 provide a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the UK. With comprehensive financial coverage and access to world-class universities, scholars gain the academic and professional skills needed to make a lasting impact in their home countries.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents early and apply through the official CSC portal before the deadline.