Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2025-2026 for Master’s Study in the UK | Fully Funded

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2025-2026 offer a unique opportunity for talented students from Commonwealth countries to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the UK. This program, managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK, is one of three Master’s scholarships dedicated to supporting individuals who show strong potential for leadership and innovation within their home countries.

The scholarship is not only an investment in individual academic growth but also in global development, aligning with the CSC’s goals to enhance international cooperation and foster sustainable growth. Through the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, the UK government extends support to individuals from developing nations, contributing to a skilled workforce that can drive positive social, economic, and cultural change back home.

About the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) administers the scholarship under the framework of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP). By supporting these scholarships, the UK demonstrates a commitment to empowering leaders across the Commonwealth who can contribute to local and global development agendas. Through strategic collaboration with UK universities, the CSC ensures that each scholar gains not only an advanced education but also an enriching experience of cultural exchange and intellectual diversity, equipping them to make a meaningful impact upon returning to their communities.

Scholarship Benefits: A Comprehensive Support Package

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship covers a wide range of expenses, ensuring that scholars can fully focus on their studies without financial worry. Here’s what is included:

1. Airfare: The scholarship provides a fully funded return flight from the scholar’s home country to the UK. This allows for ease of travel without additional costs. However, dependents’ fares are not covered, nor are costs for journeys taken before the scholarship is officially awarded.
2. Tuition Fees: All tuition fees are covered, as per the agreement between the CSC and UK universities. Scholars do not need to pay any part of their tuition, as the scholarship is specifically designed to support them throughout the entire duration of their program.
3. Monthly Stipend (Living Allowance): Scholars receive a monthly stipend of £1,378, with those studying in the London area receiving a higher rate of £1,690 per month. This stipend is intended to cover daily living expenses, allowing students to live comfortably and focus on their studies.
4. Warm Clothing Allowance: A warm clothing allowance is provided for scholars needing additional resources to purchase weather-appropriate clothing.
5. Thesis Grant: Scholars working on a thesis or dissertation receive a grant to help cover related expenses, such as printing and binding costs.
6. Study Travel Grant: The scholarship includes a travel grant for study-related travel within the UK or overseas, allowing students to gain additional insights relevant to their academic work.
7. Mandatory TB Test Coverage: For visa applications that require a tuberculosis (TB) test, the scholarship will cover this cost, provided that the scholar submits valid receipts.
8. Child Allowance: Recognizing the unique needs of single-parent scholars, the CSC provides additional financial support for dependent children. For single, widowed, or divorced scholars with children, the scholarship offers an allowance of £590 per month for the first child and £146 per month for each additional child under 16, provided they live with the scholar in the UK.

Eligibility Requirements for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2025-2026

Applicants must meet specific requirements to qualify for this scholarship. These include:

• Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country or have been granted refugee status by such a country.
• Residence: The applicant must reside permanently in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Educational Readiness: The applicant must be available to begin their studies in the UK by the start of the academic year in September 2025.
• Academic Qualifications: Applicants should possess at least an upper second-class (2:1) honors degree by September 2025. Alternatively, candidates with a lower second-class degree who also hold a relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., a master’s degree) are eligible.
• Financial Need: The applicant must demonstrate that they cannot afford to study in the UK without the support of the scholarship.
• Limited Experience in High-Income Countries: Applicants should not have studied or worked in a high-income country for more than one academic year.
• Supporting Documentation: The applicant must provide all necessary supporting documents in the required format.

Selection Process and Criteria

Selection for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships is competitive, with applicants evaluated based on:

1. Academic Merit: Candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background with achievements that reflect their commitment to their field of study.
2. Quality of Research Proposal: The research proposal should be clearly defined and aligned with both the applicant’s career goals and the development needs of their home country. It should also reflect the potential for making a significant contribution to the applicant’s field.
3. Potential Development Impact: The applicant’s work and academic interests should show the potential for creating positive change in their home country, such as economic growth, social progress, or technological advancements.

Application Process: Key Dates and Instructions

The application window for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships for the 2025/26 academic year is currently open. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to ensure they have ample time to gather all required documents and complete each part of the application.

• Application Deadline: Thursday, 12 December, at 16:00 GMT.
• Start Date: Scholarships are awarded for studies beginning in September or October 2025.

APPLY NOW

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bring my family to the UK with this scholarship? While scholars are permitted to bring dependents to the UK, the scholarship does not cover their travel or living expenses. Single-parent scholars, however, may receive a child allowance for dependents under 16.

2. What types of programs are covered by this scholarship? The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships cover Master’s-level programs across various fields. Check with the CSC and participating universities for eligible courses.

3. Will I have opportunities to network and collaborate with other scholars? Yes, the CSC hosts events and workshops to connect scholars from different disciplines, fostering a sense of community and encouraging international collaboration.

4. Can I apply for this scholarship if I already hold another scholarship? Scholars who are already receiving financial assistance from another source may not be eligible for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. It is best to review the full eligibility criteria on the CSC website.

Final Thoughts

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship program is more than a financial award; it’s an investment in individuals who are poised to make transformative contributions in their home countries. By covering all major study expenses and providing a supportive environment for academic growth, the scholarship allows recipients to focus on building their expertise and expanding their networks. Ultimately, the CSC aims to create a network of future leaders who will support sustainable development across the Commonwealth.

For those who meet the eligibility requirements, this scholarship is a remarkable opportunity to gain a world-class education in the UK while contributing to global development initiatives.