Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK) (CSC) 2026
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026-27 – Fully Funded Master’s Study in the UK
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK), offer a fully-funded opportunity for talented students from eligible Commonwealth countries to undertake Master’s studies in the United Kingdom. The scheme is specifically designed for applicants who would otherwise be unable to afford postgraduate study in the UK.
Key Features & Benefits
- The scholarship typically covers tuition fees, approved air travel to and from the UK, and a living allowance to support scholars during their stay.
- Awards are aimed at students from least developed and lower-middle income Commonwealth countries, particularly those who have not studied or worked for a year or more in a high-income country.
- Most scholarships are tenable for one academic year of full-time Master’s study.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of, or have refugee status in, a Commonwealth country listed as eligible.
- Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be available to start UK study in September/October 2026 (for the 2026-27 round).
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class standard (2:1) or second class plus relevant postgraduate qualification.
- Not have studied or worked for one year or more in a high-income country.
- Demonstrate that they cannot afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
Application Timeline
- Applications open for the 2026-27 academic year in November 2025.
- The deadline for applications is typically in early December (e.g., 9 December 2025 at 16:00 GMT).
- Applicants must submit the online application to the CSC via the central application portal and ensure all supporting documentation is provided.
Why This Scholarship Matters
This programme enables high-calibre individuals from Commonwealth countries to access UK universities and gain advanced knowledge, leadership skills and professional networks. By doing so, scholars are expected to contribute directly to the sustainable development of their home countries upon return.