Commonwealth Scholarship

Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK Government for citizens of Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate study in the UK. Designed to contribute to the UK’s international development goals, the program prioritizes candidates who will have a direct development impact in their home countries.

Citizen and permanent resident of an eligible Commonwealth country. Bachelor's degree with strong results (typically first class or upper second). Cannot have previously studied in the UK. Commitment to return to and contribute to your home country. Vary by country.

• Full tuition fees for the duration of the program
• Monthly personal maintenance allowance (~£1,236/month in London, ~£1,043 elsewhere in the UK)
• Economy class return airfare to and from your home country
• Thesis grant for Master's students (up to £400)
• Warm clothing allowance (for students from tropical countries, one-time £316)
• Study travel grant for research-related travel within the UK
• Excess baggage allowance on return home
• Initial arrival allowance
• Family allowance for married scholars: £551/month for first child, £551/month for spouse
• Access to Commonwealth alumni network of 35,000+ professionals

• Valid passport (min 6 months validity)
• Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates and transcripts
• Research proposal (2-5 pages)
• Two academic reference letters
• English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+)
• Updated CV/Resume
• Statement of purpose / Motivation letter
• Publications list (if any)

• You cannot apply directly to the CSC
• Apply through a recognised nominating body in your home country (a national nominating agency, selected NGO, or selected university for PhD)
• Submit your application via the CSC online Electronic Application System (EAS) in addition to your nominating body's own process
• Apply before the deadline set by your nominating body