Commonwealth Master's Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (FCDO)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Citizen (or refugee) of an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Uganda; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) by Sep 2027 (or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification); unable to afford UK study without the award. You must apply through your country's nominating agency or a selected NGO, not directly to the CSC.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Commonwealth Master's Scholarships pay for students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to study a one-year master's in the UK. They cover tuition, flights and a monthly stipend.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Citizen (or refugee) of an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Uganda; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) by Sep 2027 (or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification); unable to afford UK study without the award. You must apply through your country's nominating agency or a selected NGO, not directly to the CSC.
2. Note the deadline. Oct (annual; the 2027/28 round closed on 20 Oct 2026 at 16:00 BST - nominating agencies set earlier deadlines; the next round is expected to open around Aug – Sep 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Nomination or endorsement letter (where the scheme requires it); Proof of family income or financial situation (if requested); Refugee or asylum-seeker certificate; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Commonwealth Master's Scholarships?

Citizen (or refugee) of an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Uganda; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) by Sep 2027 (or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification); unable to afford UK study without the award. You must apply through your country's nominating agency or a selected NGO, not directly to the CSC.

What does Commonwealth Master's Scholarships cover?

Full tuition fees, return airfare, monthly stipend (GBP 1,712; GBP 2,000 in London) and study travel grant for one year of full-time Master's study; MBAs are not funded

When is the deadline for Commonwealth Master's Scholarships?

Oct (annual; the 2027/28 round closed on 20 Oct 2026 at 16:00 BST - nominating agencies set earlier deadlines; the next round is expected to open around Aug – Sep 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Commonwealth Master's Scholarships?

Host countries: United Kingdom.

What documents do I need for Commonwealth Master's Scholarships?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Nomination or endorsement letter (where the scheme requires it); Proof of family income or financial situation (if requested); Refugee or asylum-seeker certificate; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the Commonwealth Master's Scholarships application?

High: National Nominating Agency Screening + CSC Online Application Portal System