Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 opens an exceptional opportunity for students from across the Commonwealth to pursue a fully funded two-year Master’s degree in a low or middle-income country. This prestigious scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, living stipends, travel expenses, and a one-time arrival allowance, ensuring that scholars can focus entirely on their academic and personal growth. Designed for ambitious students dedicated to creating positive change in their communities, the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 is more than just financial support—it is a chance to broaden horizons, experience new cultures, and build a global network of peers and mentors.
By participating in this scholarship, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars contribute to meaningful cultural exchange and collaborative problem-solving across countries. Scholars gain the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to address pressing challenges in their home nations and beyond, while actively shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Before applying, candidates should carefully review the eligible courses, host institutions, and entry requirements, and read all application guidance and FAQs to maximize their chances of success.
Benefits
The Scholarship period will run for 2 years with the following benefits:
- 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)
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth 2026 Scholarship:
- The candidate must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- Must hold an undergraduate degree at the time of admission.
- No age limit or restriction.
- Each university may have specific eligibility requirements for admissions.
Required Documents for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
The application form of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship consists of the following sections:
- Eligibility
- Personal Details
- Academic & Employment Record
- Course at host university details
- Statements
- Upload supporting documents (including references)
List of the Participating Countries of Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
- Antigua & Barbuda – The University of the West Indies, Five Islands campus
- Bangladesh – BRAC University
- Barbados – The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus
- Eswatini – University of Eswatini
- Jamaica – The University of the West Indies, Mona campus
- Kenya – Technical University of Kenya
- Mauritius – University of Mauritius
- Sri Lanka – University of Kelaniya
- Trinidad & Tobago – The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus
- Uganda – Makerere University
How to Apply?
- Check the official list of eligible countries, universities, and Master’s-level programmes in the current QECS cycle. Make sure your desired course is included.
- Review the course details and entry requirements at your chosen host university to confirm it matches your academic background and goals.
- Create a myACU account or log in if you already have one, then fill out and submit the online QECS application form before the deadline. Include your personal details, academic history, course choice, and supporting documents.
- Write the required statements carefully: your study plan, how you plan to use your education to benefit your community, and how you will build networks and collaborate during your studies.
- Upload all supporting documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, identity proof (passport or national ID), references, and any other required documents.
- Submit a separate application for admission to your chosen Master’s course at the host university if required, as QECS funding and university admission may be processed independently.
- Double-check the submission deadline for your application cycle and ensure that your application is complete before that date.
- Read the full application guidance and FAQs carefully to avoid mistakes or missing documents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 offers a fully-funded Master’s program in low or middle-income Commonwealth countries. Eligible students gain tuition, living costs, research support, cultural exposure, and networking opportunities while contributing to community and global solutions.
What is the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 offers students a fully-funded opportunity to pursue a two-year Master’s degree at an ACU member university in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. It focuses on creating positive community impact.
Who is eligible for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country and have achieved at least a 2:1 or equivalent in their undergraduate degree. Applicants should also demonstrate commitment to creating positive change in their community.
What does the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 cover?
The scholarship is fully funded, covering tuition fees, living allowance, return economy flights, a one-off arrival allowance, and a Research Support Grant upon request and approval.
When can I apply for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applications for the scholarship open on 24 November 2025 and close on 14 January 2026 at 15:00 UTC. There are two cycles each year, so applicants may apply again if interested in a different country or university.
How do I apply for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must first check the list of eligible universities and courses. They should then complete the online QECS application via a myACU account and submit a separate application to the chosen university for course admission.
Which countries host the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
The scholarships are hosted by ACU member universities in low or middle-income Commonwealth countries. Each cycle has a set list of eligible host countries, which may vary annually.
Can I apply to more than one university for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Yes, candidates may apply more than once if they are interested in studying in a different country or university, but each application must be submitted separately during the open cycle.
What academic qualifications are required for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 or equivalent. Certain courses may have additional requirements, which should be reviewed on the university’s website before applying.
Is there support for research during the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Yes, scholars can request a Research Support Grant subject to approval. This grant provides additional funding to support research activities as part of their Master’s program.
What experience will I gain from the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026?
Scholars gain exposure to new cultures, academic collaboration, and networking opportunities across the Commonwealth. They also contribute to solutions for shared global challenges while building professional and personal skills.
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