Commonwealth Shared Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (FCDO) with UK universities

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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 one of 43 eligible Commonwealth countries (including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa) and living there; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification; no more than one year of study or work in a high-income country; unable to afford UK study otherwise. Apply through the CSC online system; universities nominate candidates.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Co-funded scholarships for Master's study at participating UK universities for talented students who cannot otherwise afford to study in the UK.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Citizen (or refugee) of one of 43 eligible Commonwealth countries (including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa) and living there; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification; no more than one year of study or work in a high-income country; unable to afford UK study otherwise. Apply through the CSC online system; universities nominate candidates.
2. Note the deadline. Nov 10 – Dec 8 (annual; the 2027/28 round opens on 10 Nov 2026 and closes on 8 Dec 2026 at 16:00 GMT; you must also apply separately to your UK university) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Application via the CSC system and participating university; transcripts, references.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

University nomination and CSC evaluation

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

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. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Support your financial-need statement with clear documents and keep the numbers consistent across forms.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships?

Citizen (or refugee) of one of 43 eligible Commonwealth countries (including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa) and living there; first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) or a 2:2 plus a relevant postgraduate qualification; no more than one year of study or work in a high-income country; unable to afford UK study otherwise. Apply through the CSC online system; universities nominate candidates.

What does Commonwealth Shared Scholarships cover?

Full tuition fees (shared between CSC and the university), return airfare, monthly stipend (GBP 1,712; GBP 2,000 in London) and a study travel grant for a one-year taught Master's

When is the deadline for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships?

Nov 10 – Dec 8 (annual; the 2027/28 round opens on 10 Nov 2026 and closes on 8 Dec 2026 at 16:00 GMT; you must also apply separately to your UK university) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Commonwealth Shared Scholarships?

Host countries: United Kingdom.

What documents do I need for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships?

Application via the CSC system and participating university; transcripts, references.

How are applicants selected for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships?

University nomination and CSC evaluation

How much work is the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships application?

Medium: apply through the participating university