For international students hoping to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2025/26 offers a remarkable opportunity. This fully funded scholarship program, sponsored jointly by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and various UK universities, covers all major costs associated with a one-year Master’s study. With the academic year beginning in September 2025, applicants from eligible Commonwealth countries are invited to apply for this prestigious scholarship and get an all-expenses-paid educational experience in the UK.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, application procedures, and more for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2025–2026.
Scholarship Overview
- Country of Study: United Kingdom
- Host Universities: CSC-approved UK universities
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree (one-year program)
- Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: September 2025
- Application Deadline: December 12, 2024
What Is the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship was established to help students from developing Commonwealth nations who would otherwise be unable to afford to study in the UK. By covering a wide range of expenses, this scholarship allows students to focus on their studies without financial stress. Jointly funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and participating UK universities, it aims to support students committed to the sustainable development of their home countries.
What’s Covered by the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship provides comprehensive funding support to make your study experience in the UK stress-free and enriching. Here are the main benefits:
- Full Tuition Fees – Covers the entire cost of tuition for the Master’s program.
- Monthly Stipend – Offers a monthly living allowance to support your day-to-day expenses.
- Warm Clothing Allowance – Financial support for warm clothing in the colder months if needed.
- Study-Related Travel Costs – Funding assistance for travel related to your course.
- Child Allowance – Financial support for applicants with children (where applicable).
- Round-Trip Airfare – Covers the cost of travel to and from the UK at the beginning and end of your program.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship or Refugee Status – Must be a citizen of or have refugee status in one of the eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Permanent Residency – Must reside permanently in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Academic Qualifications – By September 2025, applicants should hold an undergraduate degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honors or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- Availability – Applicants must be able to start academic studies in the UK in September 2025.
- Financial Need – Applicants should demonstrate that they are unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- No Prior Study in High-Income Countries – Applicants should not have studied or worked in a high-income country for a duration of one academic year or more.
Eligible Countries for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
The scholarship is open to students from select Commonwealth countries in need of financial support. The list includes:
- Africa: Botswana, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, The Gambia, Uganda, Zambia
- Caribbean and the Americas: Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Helena, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Asia and the Pacific: Bangladesh, Fiji, India, Kiribati, Malaysia, Maldives, Nauru, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Participating Universities and Approved Courses
Applicants may apply to more than one university and course under the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, although they can only accept one offer. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission provides a list of approved universities and eligible courses to guide applicants in making the right choice. It’s essential to select programs that align with your academic and career goals.
How to Choose the Right Course
- Course Availability – Check the list of eligible courses, as only certain Master’s programs are available for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship.
- University Compatibility – Ensure that the course aligns with your academic goals and personal development plans.
- Social Impact Focus – The scholarship prioritizes courses that contribute to the sustainable development of your home country and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Required Documentation
To apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, you must submit the following documents:
- Proof of Citizenship or Refugee Status – Documents confirming your eligibility based on nationality or refugee status.
- Identity Proof – A valid passport or national ID card showing your photograph, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
- Academic Transcripts – Complete transcripts for all higher education qualifications.
- Recommendation Letters – Letters from your professors, advisors, or other relevant mentors.
- Personal Statement – A well-crafted essay explaining your academic goals, reasons for choosing the course, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to sustainable development in your home country.
The Application Process
The application process for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is online through the CSC’s application portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare Documents – Gather all required documents as outlined in the documentation list above.
- Complete the CSC Application Form – Submit your application online through the CSC online application system. Note that the CSC does not accept paper applications.
- University Application – Apply to your chosen course at the UK university that offers it. Make sure that the course is one of the approved programs for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship.
- Double-Check Deadlines – The final deadline for submitting your CSC application is December 12, 2024. However, some universities may have earlier deadlines, so be sure to check the specific deadlines for the university you’re applying to.
Key Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight Financial Need – Clearly explain why you need this scholarship and how it will enable you to achieve your academic goals.
- Showcase Commitment to Sustainable Development – Emphasize how your studies and future career will benefit your home country and contribute to global goals.
- Tailor Your Personal Statement – Be genuine and specific about how the program aligns with your career plans.
- Strong Academic Record – Ensure your transcripts, recommendation letters, and application convey your academic and professional strengths.
- Prepare Early – Given the December deadline and potential variations in university deadlines, start your application well in advance.
Why Apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity to gain a world-class education in the UK, expand your professional network, and make a meaningful impact in your community. For those who meet the eligibility requirements and demonstrate financial need, this scholarship provides a clear pathway to enhance your academic and professional journey, helping you acquire skills, insights, and connections that will support sustainable development in your home country.
Conclusion
Applying for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity to take the next big step in your academic career. With funding that covers everything from tuition to living expenses, this scholarship allows you to focus on gaining new skills, building connections, and making a significant difference in your community. For eligible Commonwealth students, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2025–2026 could be the key to unlocking a future of innovation, development, and progress.
