Commonwealth Master's Scholarships (UK)

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK offers master's scholarships to talented people from low and middle income Commonwealth countries. The scheme is designed for candidates whose studies will help development in their home country.

What it covers

These scholarships are fully funded. They generally include tuition fees, a return airfare, a monthly living allowance, and other allowances such as help with thesis costs. Check the official website for the current amounts.

Who can apply

You usually need to:

• Be a citizen of, or have refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country
• Hold, or expect to hold by the start date, a good first degree (typically upper second class or equivalent)
• Be unable to afford to study in the UK without the scholarship

How the application works

The process has two parts, and missing either one is a common mistake:

1. Apply to your national nominating agency. Each country has its own agency, often a ministry of education or a scholarship board, with its own form and deadline. This deadline is often earlier than the commission's.
2. Complete the online application on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's system. You can only submit this if your nominating agency puts you forward.

Documents you'll need

• Proof of citizenship or refugee status
• Transcripts for all degrees
• References
• Your answers to the development impact questions, which explain how your study will benefit your country

Tips

Selectors score your academic merit, the quality of your plan, and its likely development impact. Be specific about the problem you want to tackle and how the chosen UK course gives you the skills to do it.