Commonwealth Scholarships (CSC UK)

What it is

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK runs scholarships funded by the UK government for students from Commonwealth countries, with a focus on development impact. Its main schemes for students are Commonwealth Masters Scholarships, Commonwealth PhD Scholarships and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships.

Masters Scholarships (as of 2026-09)

• For citizens or refugees of eligible low and middle income Commonwealth countries, with at least an upper second class degree or equivalent, who could not otherwise afford UK study.
• You cannot apply to the Commission directly. You apply through your national nominating agency or selected organisations, which nominate candidates to the Commission.
• Coverage listed on the official page includes tuition, return airfare, a monthly stipend (listed at 1,712 pounds, or 2,000 pounds in London), a study travel grant and allowances for children where applicable.
• For the 2027/28 cycle the Commission's application deadline is 16:00 BST on 20 October 2026, and nominating agencies set earlier deadlines of their own.

Shared Scholarships

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are offered with participating UK universities for specific masters courses. You apply to the university, which nominates candidates. As of 2026-09 the official page shows the 2026/27 round closed and the 2027/28 round not yet announced; check the page for updates.

How to use it well

1. Check your country's eligibility on the official site.
2. Find your nominating agency and its deadline; it is often weeks before the Commission's.
3. Read the selection criteria: academic merit, the quality of your plans and the potential development impact.
4. Prepare the development impact answers with concrete examples from your country and field.

Is it worth it?

For eligible applicants, yes: it is fully funded and designed for people from lower income countries. The nominating agency step adds a second set of rules, so start early.

Free or paid

Applying is free.

Common questions

Can I apply from a high income Commonwealth country? Masters Scholarships are for eligible low and middle income countries; check the list.

Is there a return requirement? Read the current terms; the scheme expects scholars to contribute to development in their home countries.