The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2026 offers talented students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries the opportunity to pursue postgraduate study in the United Kingdom. Funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), this fully funded program supports individuals who have the potential to drive sustainable development and become future leaders in their home countries.

Scholarship Summary
Host Country: United Kingdom
Study Level: Master’s Degree
Eligible Countries: Developing Commonwealth Countries
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Benefits: Full tuition, airfare, accommodation, and £21,372 annual stipend
Application Opens: September 2, 2025
Deadline: October 21, 2025

Scholarship Details
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship is part of the CSC’s mission to promote international cooperation and build capacity through education. It supports outstanding students who cannot afford to study in the UK without financial aid. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and research that align with sustainable development goals.

Scholars benefit from world-class education at top UK universities and are encouraged to return home after completing their studies to apply the knowledge gained in solving real-world challenges.

Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must:

• Be a citizen of, or hold refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth nation.
• Begin academic study in the UK by September 2026.
• Hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) degree or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Be unable to fund studies in the UK without this scholarship.
• Submit all required documents before the application deadline.

Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition fees covered by agreement between CSC and the host university.
• Approved airfare to and from the UK at the end of the award.
• Monthly stipend of £1,452 or £1,781 for universities in London.
• Warm clothing allowance where applicable.
• Study travel grant for academic trips within or outside the UK.
• Child allowance: £622 per month for the first child and £154 for the second and third under 16 (if applicable).

Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• Passport or national ID.
• Details of employment history and its relevance to the chosen program.
• Up to 10 publications or prizes (if available).
• Three referees, including a current employer if applicable.
• Personal statement highlighting motivation, leadership, and community contributions.
• A detailed Development Impact Statement covering:
  1. Key development issues globally, nationally, and locally.
  2. How new skills will be applied post-scholarship.
  3. Expected outcomes, timeframe, and beneficiaries.
  4. Methods to measure the impact of the scholar’s work.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Apply online through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s application system.
2. Select your preferred UK universities and study programs.
3. Submit all required documents before the deadline.
4. Apply to one of the approved nominating agencies, such as:
   • National nominating agencies (main route).
   • Selected NGOs or charitable bodies.
5. Each nominating agency has its own selection process, so applicants should check its specific requirements.
6. Applications for the 2026/27 academic year open on September 2, 2025, and close on October 21, 2025.

Deadline: October 21, 2025