The Commonwealth Scholarships (UK) are among the most prestigious and fully funded scholarships in the world. Every year, thousands of students from Commonwealth countries apply for Commonwealth Scholarships UK to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in the United Kingdom. These scholarships aim to support talented students who cannot afford to study in the UK and want to contribute to the development of their home countries. In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about Commonwealth Scholarships, including eligibility, benefits, application process, courses, deadlines. Various eligibility criteria and requirements are based on the degree level and programs. Since it is a merit-based scholarship, students need to have good academic records. Here are the eligibility criteria of Commonwealth Scholarships for Bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D
The Commonwealth Scholarship UK is a fully funded scholarship program offered by the UK government through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). The program supports students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to study in the UK.
The main objective of Commonwealth Scholarships UK is to promote international cooperation, education equality, and sustainable development.
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
There are several types of Commonwealth Scholarships, depending on the level of study and study mode:
1. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
For one-year full-time Master’s degree
Most popular Commonwealth Scholarship UK program
2. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
For 3–4 year doctoral programs
Includes split-site and full-time PhD options
3. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Jointly funded by UK universities
For students from least developed countries
4. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
Study from your home country
UK degree through online mode
Benefits of Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
The Commonwealth Scholarship UK is a fully funded scholarship, covering almost all expenses:
✈️ Return airfare to the UK
🎓 Full tuition fees
💷 Monthly living allowance (stipend)
🏠 Accommodation support
📚 Study and research grants
👨👩👧 Family allowance (for PhD scholars)
❄️ Winter clothing allowance (if applicable)
This makes Commonwealth Scholarships UK one of the most attractive scholarships globally.
Eligibility Criteria for Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
To apply for Commonwealth Scholarships, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (including India)
Must have a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s)
Must have a Master’s degree (for PhD)
Must meet UK university academic requirements
Must demonstrate financial need
Must be willing to return to home country after studies
Must meet English language requirements (IELTS or equivalent)
Eligible Countries for Commonwealth Scholarships
Some eligible countries include:
India
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Sri Lanka
Nigeria
Kenya
Ghana
South Africa
Malaysia (and other Commonwealth nations)
Courses Covered Under Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
The focuses on courses related to sustainable development, such as:
Engineering & Technology
Computer Science & IT
Data Science & AI
Public Health & Medicine
Climate Change & Environment
Education & Teaching
Economics & Development Studies
Business & Management
Law & Governance
How to Apply for Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Choose an eligible course and UK university
Apply for admission at the selected university
Apply for Commonwealth Scholarship online
Submit:
Academic transcripts
Degree certificates
Statement of purpose
Reference letters
Development impact statement
Track your application on the CSC portal
Selection Criteria for Commonwealth Scholarships
Candidates are selected based on:
Academic merit
Quality of study plan
Development impact on home country
Leadership potential
Financial need
Commonwealth Scholarships (UK) Deadline 2026
Applications open: August – September 2025
Last date: October – November 2025
Results announced: March – April 2026
(Exact dates may vary each year)
Why Choose Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)?
World-class UK education
Zero financial burden
International exposure
High global recognition
Strong alumni network
Career growth opportunities
The Commonwealth Scholarship UK can completely transform your academic and professional life.
FAQs – Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
1. What is the Commonwealth Scholarship UK?
It is a fully funded UK government scholarship for students from Commonwealth countries.
2. Is Commonwealth Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, Commonwealth Scholarships UK cover tuition, living expenses, and airfare.
3. Can Indian students apply for Commonwealth Scholarships?
Yes, Indian students are eligible for Commonwealth Scholarships UK.
4. Is IELTS required for Commonwealth Scholarship?
IELTS depends on the university’s requirement.
5. What is the age limit for Commonwealth Scholarship?
There is no strict age limit.
6. Can I work while studying on Commonwealth Scholarship?
Yes, part-time work is allowed as per UK visa rules.
7. How competitive is the Commonwealth Scholarship UK?
It is highly competitive due to limited seats.
8. Can I apply without work experience?
Yes, work experience is not mandatory for all courses.
9. Can I apply for multiple courses?
Yes, but you must meet eligibility criteria.
10. What stipend is given under Commonwealth Scholarship?
Around £1,300 per month (approx.).
11. Are family members allowed?
Yes, especially for PhD scholars.
12. Does Commonwealth Scholarship require return to home country?
Yes, scholars are expected to return after studies.
13. Can I change university after selection?
No, changes are generally not allowed.
14. Is medical insurance covered?
Yes, basic health coverage is included.
15. Are distance learning scholarships available?
Yes, Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are available.
16. Can I reapply if rejected?
Yes, you can apply again next year.
17. Is Commonwealth Scholarship only for poor students?
Preference is given to financially needy students.
18. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Around 800–1,000 globally.
19. Is there an application fee?
No, applying is completely free.
20. Where to apply for Commonwealth Scholarships UK?
Through the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission portal.
Commonwealth Scholarship, UK Scholarships, Study in UK, Fully Funded Scholarship, International Students, Postgraduate Scholarship, Master’s Degree UK, PhD Scholarship UK, Tuition Fee Support, Living Allowance, Travel Grant, Developing Countries, Higher Education UK, Scholarship Application, Academic Excellence, UK Universities, IELTS Requirement, Online Application, Commonwealth Commission, Overseas Education