Application Deadline:
09 Dec 2025
About Organisation
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK administers the government’s international scholarship programme grounded in global development goals. It strengthens research, innovation, and leadership capacity across Commonwealth nations by supporting talented individuals who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to development. Through its scholarships and fellowships, the CSC enables scholars to access high-quality education in the UK and return equipped to contribute meaningfully to national progress. Its mission integrates sustainable development priorities with opportunities for international collaboration, ensuring that emerging leaders gain the knowledge and skills needed to positively impact their home countries.
About the Grant
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme is a Master’s-level initiative designed to support students from least developed, lower-income, and fragile Commonwealth countries who cannot otherwise afford study in the UK. Delivered in partnership with participating UK universities, the programme aims to develop skilled professionals capable of driving development in their home countries. It combines academic excellence, sectoral relevance, and leadership potential, enabling scholars to gain advanced qualifications while contributing to long-term capacity building. The scholarship reflects the UK’s continued commitment to the Commonwealth by fostering global partnerships, empowering emerging leaders, and supporting solutions aligned with sustainable development priorities.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must be citizens of or hold refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country and must be permanently residing there. By September 2026, candidates should hold a minimum of an upper second-class undergraduate degree or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification. They must not have studied or worked in a high-income country for more than one academic year and must demonstrate financial inability to study in the UK without the scholarship. Applicants should be available to begin studies in the UK in September/October 2026 and must submit all required documentation in the specified format.
How to Apply?
Applications open on 12 November 2025. Candidates must apply through the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship portal and also complete the admission process with their chosen UK universities. Each participating university will shortlist and nominate candidates to the CSC. The Commission will review nominations based on academic merit, research strength, and development impact. Applicants must ensure all documents are submitted in the required format before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The application window closes on 9 December 2025 at 16:00 GMT. Candidates must complete both the scholarship application and relevant university admissions before the deadline.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
