The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is about to launch, and students worldwide should start preparing for this esteemed opportunity! The application window was opened on September 10, 2024, offering a chance for qualified individuals to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the UK.
This scholarship, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), focuses on supporting talented students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries, equipping them with the tools necessary to contribute to sustainable development.
Eligibility Criteria For The Commonwealth Master’s Degree Scholarship
To be considered for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country
- Must be permanently residing in a Commonwealth country
- Must hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) honors degree or a relevant postgraduate qualification
- Must demonstrate financial need, proving they are unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship
- Must be available to start their studies in September 2025
Benefits
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship offers full financial support to successful applicants, ensuring they can fully concentrate on their studies. Here’s a breakdown of what the scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees at a UK institution
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Return airfare to and from the UK
- Thesis grant (if applicable)
- Warm clothing allowance for colder months
- Study travel grants (if applicable)
- Child allowance (for eligible students)
These comprehensive benefits eliminate financial worries, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic and leadership development. Graduating with a Master’s degree from a top UK institution gives students a platform to emerge as innovators and leaders in their respective fields.
Furthermore, candidates must showcase their potential to contribute to sustainable development in their home country and align their application with one of the six CSC development themes:
- Science and Technology for Development
- Strengthening Health Systems
- Promoting Innovation
- Strengthening Global Peace
- Strengthening Resilience to Crises
- Access, Inclusion, and Opportunity
Documents Required
Applicants must ensure they submit the following essential documents as part of their application:
- Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID)
- Full academic transcripts showcasing previous educational achievements
- Two professional references on official institutional letterhead
- A Development Impact Statement, outlining how the scholarship will contribute to development in your home country (Find more details about the development impact statement here).
This is a highly competitive scholarship, so make sure your application is thorough, with all required documents submitted on time. Attention to detail and ensuring that all instructions are followed will increase your chances of success.
Method of Application
- Access the CSC’s online application portal via this link: Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships Application
- Apply through a nominating agency, which could be a national nominating agency or a select NGO. Be sure to meet the criteria specific to the agency.
- Submit all required documents, including:
- Proof of citizenship
- Full academic transcripts
- Two references from professionals on official letterhead
- A personal statement and a development impact statement
Note: It’s crucial to submit your application early to avoid last-minute challenges.
Important Dates
- Opening Date: September 10, 2024
- Closing Date: December 2024 (Exact dates may vary based on the nominating agency)
- Results Announcement: July 2025
Application Deadline: December 2024.
