The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a unique opportunity to study a two-year Master’s degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. Aimed at students who are committed to creating change in their communities, the scholarships are a life-changing opportunity to experience a new country and culture, to broaden horizons, and to build a global network that will last a lifetime.
Through cultural exchange and academic collaboration, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars help bring about positive change and find solutions to the shared challenges we face – both in their home countries and those that host them. As an active part of the Commonwealth network, scholars will help shape its future.
Each year there are two opportunities to apply for QECS – cycle 1 opens in November/December and cycle 2 opens in March/April. You only need to submit one application, but you are welcome to apply more than once if there is another country you are interested in studying in.
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are prestigious scholarship opportunities available to students from Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in another Commonwealth country. Established in 1959, the QECS program aims to foster academic excellence, promote intercultural exchange, and strengthen the bonds of the Commonwealth community.
Administered by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), the QECS program offers scholarships for Master’s and Ph.D. level studies across various disciplines, including but not limited to, arts and humanities, social sciences, engineering, health, and sciences. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, return airfare, and other allowances, enabling recipients to focus on their studies and immerse themselves fully in their academic pursuits.
One of the distinguishing features of the QECS program is its emphasis on cultural exchange and collaboration. Scholars have the opportunity to study in a different Commonwealth country, experiencing new cultures, perspectives, and academic environments. This exposure enhances their global outlook, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and builds lasting connections within the Commonwealth community.
The QECS program prioritizes the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, academic excellence, and potential to contribute to the development of the scholar’s home country. Special consideration may be given to applicants from marginalized backgrounds, underrepresented communities, or those facing financial constraints.
In addition to financial support, QECS scholars benefit from a range of academic and professional development opportunities. They may have access to mentorship, networking events, and leadership training, empowering them to become agents of change in their communities and beyond. Upon completion of their studies, scholars join an alumni network of Commonwealth scholars, where they can continue to engage, collaborate, and make a positive impact.
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships provide a transformative educational experience for talented individuals from Commonwealth countries, enabling them to pursue their academic goals, broaden their horizons, and contribute to positive change in their communities and the world.
Benefits Of The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
- Fully-funded tuition fees
- Living allowance (stipend) for duration of award
- Return economy flights to host country
- One-off arrival allowance
- Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval)
Method of Application
- Look through the list of countries and universities hosting scholarships in this cycle.
- Visit the relevant university website for more information on your chosen course using the links included below.
- Complete and submit a QECS application for your chosen university/course by clicking the ‘Apply now’ button. Once you’ve clicked apply, you’ll be directed to a log in page. If you don’t already have a myACU account, click get ‘get started’ in the right hand corner of the page to start your application.
- Submit an application to your chosen university for admission to your chosen course.
Application Deadline: May 24, 2024.
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