Commonwealth Scholarships (CSCUK)
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK offers postgraduate and professional development awards to talented individuals from Commonwealth countries to study at UK universities. These scholarships aim to contribute to sustainable development and the UK's international development goals.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Fully FundedDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
United KingdomAbout the Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) provides around 800 awards annually for postgraduate study and professional development. These scholarships are primarily funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to support innovators and leaders from across the Commonwealth.
The program is designed to support candidates of outstanding ability, particularly those from low and middle income countries, to gain the skills required for sustainable development. Awards are aligned with six development themes: science and technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, crisis resilience, population health, global peace and governance, and access and inclusion.
Scholarships are offered through various routes, including Master's Scholarships, Shared Master's Scholarships, and PhD Scholarships for least developed countries and vulnerable states. The CSC also offers professional fellowships and startup fellowships to enhance skills and support commercial innovation.
The CSC works in partnership with UK universities, national nominating agencies, and NGOs to identify and select candidates. Many awards are part-funded by UK host universities, which also benefit from the research collaborations and academic partnerships formed through the program.
Since 1960, over 34,000 individuals have received Commonwealth Scholarships. The program continues to adapt to the needs of the 56-nation Commonwealth, including the implementation of Time Limited Programmes that respond to specific political or environmental challenges.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Access to world-class education at UK universities
Opportunity to contribute to sustainable development in your home country
Membership in a global network of over 34,000 alumni
Support for professional development and research impact
Exposure to diverse academic and cultural environments
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
6 requirements
Documents Checklist
5 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Check eligibility for your specific country on the CSC website
Identify the appropriate nominating agency or route for your chosen scholarship
Submit an application through the CSC online application system
Ensure your application is submitted to your nominating agency by their internal deadline
Wait for nomination and subsequent selection by the CSC
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Ensure your application clearly links your proposed study to one of the six CSC development themes
Research the specific requirements of your national nominating agency as they may have additional criteria
Focus your supporting statement on the potential development impact of your studies in your home country
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues
Contact your nominating agency early to understand their internal selection process
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
The main route of application is via national nominating agencies, invited NGOs, or selected universities. You must check the specific application route for your country.
Yes, the scholarships are designed to cover tuition, living costs, and travel expenses.
No, these specific programmes are currently paused and will not be running in 2026.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - confirm on official site. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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Reopens: Varies - confirm on official site
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