The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 Commonwealth Masters Scholarships, a fully funded opportunity for talented students from developing Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom.
The prestigious programme, funded by the UK Government, covers full tuition fees, return airfare, accommodation, and a monthly living stipend of up to £1,781 for scholars studying in the London area.
According to the CSC, the scheme is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) — an initiative designed to promote sustainable development, leadership, and global collaboration among Commonwealth nations.
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Scholarship Summary
Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
Category: Masters Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships
Eligible Countries: All Developing Commonwealth Countries
Reward: Full Funding (Tuition, Flights, Accommodation, £21,372 Annual Stipend)
IELTS: Not Required
Application Opens: September 2, 2025
Deadline: October 21, 2025
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Commonwealth Masters Scholarship, applicants must:
Be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country, or a British Protected Person.
Be permanently resident in an eligible country.
Hold a minimum of a Second-Class Upper (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent.
Be unable to afford UK study without this scholarship.
Be ready to begin academic studies in the UK by September 2026.
Provide all required documents and references before the closing date.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars will receive:
Full tuition fees (covered by CSC and the UK university).
Round-trip airfare to and from the UK.
Monthly stipend: £1,452 (outside London) or £1,781 (within London).
Warm clothing allowance (where applicable).
Study travel grant for academic-related travel.
Child allowance for single parents or guardians with dependants.
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Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID).
Employment history and references.
A Development Impact Statement outlining how their studies will contribute to development in their home country.
A Personal Statement highlighting leadership, volunteerism, and community engagement.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online portal.
Opening Date: September 2, 2025
Closing Date: October 14, 2025 (CSC Portal)
Final Deadline: October 21, 2025 (via nominating agencies)
Applicants must also apply through their national nominating agency or approved non-governmental organization. Each agency manages its own internal selection process, so candidates are advised to check local deadlines and requirements.
🔗 Apply Here: Visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Portal
About the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship empowers outstanding individuals to gain advanced skills and knowledge to drive development impact in their home countries. The programme supports innovation, leadership, and cross-border collaboration, embodying the UK’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth’s shared prosperity.
Deadline: October 21, 2025
Source: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), United Kingdom
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