If you are here, it means you have always dreamed of studying in the UK. But thinking that tuition fees, living costs, and international expenses would hold you back, right?
You are not alone. Thousands of talented students across low and middle-income countries face the same challenge. Here is a solution: The Commonwealth Masters Scholarships 2026 in the UK have been designed to solve exactly that problem.
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This prestigious program supports brilliant students who otherwise cannot afford to study abroad. These scholarships go beyond funding; they help you gain knowledge and grow professionally. It will return you home as leaders, innovators, and change-makers who contribute to economic growth and peace in your communities.
Since its launch in 1960, the Commonwealth Scholarship program has supported more than 30,000 scholars. Many of whom are now prime ministers, Nobel laureates, top researchers, diplomats, and heads of organizations. This scholarship is not just about funding your education; it’s about shaping your future and giving you a platform to make a difference.
I hope you are very interested in reading this article. For you, I have explained and shared all important and authentic details about the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship, including eligibility, benefits, and the application process, etc.

About the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2026
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students. They are open to candidates from eligible Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the UK without financial support.
This program is built on six core themes, ensuring students contribute to global progress in critical areas like:
- Science and technology for development
- Peace, security, and governance
- Crisis resilience and response
- Health and healthcare capacity
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Access, inclusion, and opportunities
By winning this scholarship, you join a global community of alumni who continue to lead change worldwide. It’s not just a master’s degree. It’s a life-changing journey of growth, opportunity, and impact.
Let’s take a glance at Quick Highlights –
Host Country | United Kingdom |
---|---|
Name of the scholarship | Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2026 |
Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
Funding | Fully Funded |
Scholarship Provider | UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) |
Eligible Countries | Selected Commonwealth Nations (see list below) |
Deadline | 14 October 2025 (16:00 GMT) |
Scholarship Themes | 6 (Science, Health, Innovation, Peace, Resilience, Inclusion) |
Eligible countries for the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship
Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Ghana, Guyana, Gabon, India, Jamaica, Namibia, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Nauru, Nigeria, Grenada, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, St Helena, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, The Gambia, Tonga, Tuvalu, Togo, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a resident or citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- You must be a refugee or a British-protected person from eligible regions, if applicable.
- You must be able to begin your studies in the UK by September 2026.
- You must provide all required documents in the correct format.
- You must show proof that you would be unable to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- You must hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honors standard. A second-class degree with a postgraduate qualification may also be accepted.
- You must not already be funded for a second master’s degree, unless you can provide strong reasons for why it is necessary.
Also Read: Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship 2026/27 | Fully Funded
Benefits of the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship
This is a fully funded scholarship. It covers all major costs, so you can focus on your studies without financial stress:
- Full tuition fees: Covered by the scholarship.
- Monthly stipend: £1,452 or £1,781 (depending on your university’s location).
- Thesis/dissertation costs: Covered by the program.
- Study travel grants: For academic trips inside or outside the UK.
- Airfare: Travel to and from the UK.
- Warm clothing allowance: For UK winters.
- Family support: Single parents, widowed, or divorced scholars receive £622/month for the first child and £154/month for each additional child under 16.
- Disability allowance: Additional support for scholars with disabilities.
Important Dates
Application Status | Currently Open |
Application Deadline | 14 October 2025 (16:00 GMT) |
Nominations by Agencies | December 2025 |
Results Announced | July 2026 |
Program Start | September 2026 |
Also Read: Doha Institute Scholarship 2026 in Qatar (Fully Funded) – Study for Free in the Middle East
Commonwealth Masters Scholarship Required Documents
When applying, make sure you have arranged:
- A valid passport or national ID card (with photo and citizenship details).
- Two reference letters from professors or supervisors (on official letterhead).
- Academic transcripts of all higher education qualifications.
- Updated transcripts for any ongoing courses.
- Any additional documents requested by your nominating agency.
Application Process Step by Step
- Check eligibility: Make sure your country and qualifications are eligible.
- Visit the Official Website.
- Apply online: Applications must be submitted through the CSC online portal.
- Apply via nominating body: Applications are accepted only through national nominating agencies, NGOs, or charitable bodies (not directly to CSC).
- Upload documents: Include references, transcripts, and identity proof.
- Submit before the deadline: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- Wait for results: Nominations will be completed by December 2025, and final results will be announced by July 2026.
Why will you choose the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship?
- You will have a chance to study in the UK for free.
- You will build networks with global professionals and alumni.
- You will receive training that supports sustainable development.
- You will become part of a prestigious global community.
- You will open doors to international opportunities after graduation.
FAQs
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
Generally, the CSC does not fund a second Master’s degree. However, if you can justify why another Master’s is essential, you may still apply.
When will I know if I’m selected?
Agencies nominate candidates by December 2025. Final results are expected by July 2026.
Is work experience required?
No, but the program especially values applicants with leadership potential and relevant experience.
Who pays for family support?
The scholarship provides additional allowances for single parents, widows, or divorced students.
Can I apply without IELTS/TOEFL?
The CSC does not require specific English test scores, but universities may. Check the requirements of your chosen UK university.
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2026 in the UK is more than just financial aid. They are a life-changing opportunity for talented students from low and middle-income countries. This scholarship not only removes financial barriers but also opens doors to some of the world’s best universities, research opportunities, and global networks.
Suppose you are passionate about driving change, solving real-world problems, and contributing to sustainable development. This scholarship can be your gateway to growth and success. The journey may seem challenging, but the rewards are endless, from gaining an international education to building lifelong connections with future leaders across the Commonwealth.
So, if you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hold yourself back. Apply before the deadline and take one step closer to making your dream of studying in the UK a reality.