The ACU Global Grants provide undergraduate students at ACU member universities with funding to attend short-term academic programmes in a different Commonwealth country. These grants support academic development, international experience, and knowledge exchange across the Commonwealth.
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) administers these grants, with some funded by the HW Paxton Trust. The ACU is a network of over 500 member universities in Commonwealth countries, promoting international collaboration and higher education development.
Benefits ACU Global Grants 2026
- 10 awards of up to GBP 5,000 are available
- Five awards for citizens of the United Kingdom
- Five awards for citizens of (or those holding refugee status in) Commonwealth countries (excluding the UK)
Eligibility Criteria for the ACU Global Grants 2026
- Be registered as an undergraduate student at an ACU member institution
- Be a citizen of (or hold refugee status in) a Commonwealth country
- Identify a programme related to their studies that is a short-term academic programme (‘summer’ or ‘winter’ school)
- The programme must be in a Commonwealth country at an ACU member institution
- The programme must have an official start date between 1 December 2026 and 31 August 2027
- Provide a letter of institutional support from a departmental head or academic/course supervisor
- Provide a letter of support from the proposed programme host
How to Apply for the ACU Global Grants 2026
- Review the FAQs and Application Guidance
- Submit an application through the online application form
- If you already have a MyACU account, access the grant application form by logging into the platform and accessing the form here
- If you do not already have a MyACU account, register for an account, then follow the instructions in the registration email to log into the system before accessing the application form
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the ACU Global Grants. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What are ACU Global Grants?
ACU Global Grants provide undergraduate students at ACU member universities with funding to attend short-term academic programmes, such as summer or winter schools, hosted by an ACU member institution in a different Commonwealth country.
Who can apply for ACU Global Grants?
Applicants must be registered as an undergraduate student at an ACU member institution and be a citizen of (or hold refugee status in) a Commonwealth country.
What is the deadline for ACU Global Grants 2026?
Applications close on 25 August 2026 at 15:00 UTC. Applications open on 14 July 2026.
How much funding is available through ACU Global Grants?
10 awards of up to GBP 5,000 are available. Five awards are for UK citizens, and five are for citizens of other Commonwealth countries.
What types of programmes are eligible for ACU Global Grants?
Eligible programmes must be short-term academic programmes (summer or winter schools) in a Commonwealth country at an ACU member institution, with an official start date between 1 December 2026 and 31 August 2027.
What documents are required for the ACU Global Grants application?
Applicants must provide a letter of institutional support from a departmental head or academic supervisor and a letter of support from the proposed programme host.
How do I apply for ACU Global Grants?
Review the FAQs and Application Guidance, then submit an application through the online application form. You need a MyACU account to access the form.
Can I apply if I don’t have a MyACU account?
Yes, you can register for a MyACU account first. After registration, follow the instructions in the email to log in and access the application form.
Are ACU Global Grants fully funded?
Yes, the grants provide up to GBP 5,000 to cover costs for attending the short-term academic programme, making them fully funded for the awarded amount.
Who funds the ACU Global Grants?
A number of these grants are funded by the kind legacy of the HW Paxton Trust. The ACU administers the grants.
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