Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship is a unique opportunity to study for a two-years Master’s degree in low or middle-income country of the Commonwealth.

Aimed at students who are committed to creating change in their communities, the scholarships are a life-changing opportunity to experience a new country and culture, to broaden horizons, and to build a global network that will last a lifetime.

Through cultural exchange and academic collaboration, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars help bring about positive change and find solutions to the shared challenges we face – both in their home countries and those that host them. As an active part of the Commonwealth network, scholars will help shape its future.

Due to the COVID-19 situation, Scholars will be advised to travel once travel restrictions are lifted and universities are open and accepting international students.

Benefits of Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship

Award recipients receive:

• Fully-funded tuition fees
• Living expenses allowance (stipend) for the duration of the award
• Return economy flights to their host country
• An arrival allowance
• Research support grant – on request only; subject to approval

Eligibility

• Citizens (or those who hold refugee status) in a Commonwealth country are welcome to apply.
• Applicants must apply for a QECS award in a country other than their home country/country of citizenship.
• There is no upper age limit to be eligible for a QECS Award.
• You must have already completed your degree and have graduated with an equivalent of a 2:1 at the time of application. As part of the application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your final transcript and degree certificate.

Application Cycle for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship

The timing of when you will hear the outcome of your application will depend on the application cycle you have applied in.

• Cycle 1 applicants for courses starting in July-October should receive the outcome of their application by July of the year of award.
• Cycle 2 applicants for courses starting in January-February should receive the outcome of their application by October prior to the start of award.

Selection Criteria

For an application to be considered for selection, applicants must ensure that:

• A personal statement is written clearly so that a non-specialist can understand what the aims of the research are and how they will be implemented
• The applicant clearly needs to outline why they are applying to the courses and institutions listed on their application form. You must tailor these answers to each institution – if you write the same answer for each course/institution or copy and paste text from university websites, then your application will not be considered.
• An applicant has to meet all the eligibility requirements for their chosen university course, including having the necessary work experience
• Two referees are identified and references are provided– references should be detailed and include the content outlined on the application form
• Include full details about marks/grades gained for particular degrees. Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure that full supporting documentation is provided at the time of application, in the form of an official transcript.