The 2025-26 Commonwealth Shared Scholarships provide a fully-funded path for students from less developed, low-income, and lower-middle-income Commonwealth nations to pursue their studies in the UK. This esteemed scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, enabling gifted individuals to attain a top-tier education without financial hurdles. It serves as a bridge to a more prosperous future via academic achievement and international cooperation.
The objective of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships is to enhance social welfare and sustainable development by drawing outstanding students to UK universities. These scholarships grant access to higher education for those from less privileged backgrounds, thus fostering the development of future leaders within their own nations. Recipients acquire crucial skills, knowledge, and connections that aid in the advancement of worldwide progress.
Beneficiaries of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2025-26 will experience a robust support network, aiding in their adaptation to life in the UK and navigating cultural differences. The scholarship program promotes collaboration through alumni networks and regional platforms, enhancing international partnerships. Candidates must exhibit academic excellence and a dedication to contributing to their home country’s development after their studies.
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Commonwealth Shared Scholarships Details
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Universities: Various UK Universities
- Funded By: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Eligibility: Students from Commonwealth countries
Benefits of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Full Tuition Coverage: All tuition fees are fully covered, removing financial barriers to education.
- Monthly Stipend: Scholars receive a monthly stipend of £1,378, which increases to £1,690 if residing in London.
- Warm Clothing Allowance: A provision for warm clothing is available if necessary.
- Thesis and Travel Grants: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) funds thesis grants and study travel grants.
- TB Test Coverage: Costs associated with tuberculosis testing required for the visa application are covered.
- Return Airfare: Return airfare to the UK is funded by CSC, though dependent and pre-award travel costs are not reimbursed.
- Child Allowance: For single parents, a child allowance is provided—£590 for the first child and £146 for each additional child.
- Support for Scholars with Disabilities: Additional assistance is available for scholars with disabilities, ensuring access and support throughout their studies.
Eligibility Criteria for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of, or have refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country and be permanently residing there.
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Academic Start Date: Must be available to commence studies in the UK by September 2025.
- Educational Qualifications: Should hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (such as a master’s degree) by September 2025.
- Limited Study/Work in High-Income Countries: Applicants should not have studied or worked for one academic year or more in a high-income country.
- Financial Need: Must demonstrate that they are unable to afford studying in the UK without the scholarship.
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List of Eligible Countries
- Bangladesh
- Belize
- Botswana
- Cameroon
- Dominica
- Eswatini
- Fiji
- Gabon
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guyana
- India
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mauritius
- Montserrat
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Papua New Guinea
- Rwanda
- Saint Helena
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and The Grenadines
- Samoa
- Sierra Leone
- Solomon Islands
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Tanzania
- The Gambia
- Togo
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Vanuatu
- Zambia
- Sudan
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How to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships ?
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all the eligibility requirements specified by the scholarship program.
- Research Courses: Investigate and select from the courses eligible under the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship that align with your academic and career objectives.
- Select a UK University: Identify and choose a UK university that offers your selected course and participates in the scholarship program.
- Prepare Required Documents: Assemble all necessary documents such as academic transcripts, certificates, letters of reference, and proof of citizenship or refugee status.
- Online Application: Visit the official Commonwealth Shared Scholarship website to fill out the online application form with precise and accurate information.
- Course Admission: Apply for admission to the chosen course at the UK university, ensuring you meet their specific requirements and deadlines.
- Submit Application: Carefully review your entire application to ensure accuracy and completeness, and submit it along with all required documentation before the deadline.
The application deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2025-26 in the UK is 12 December 2025.
