The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2027 is a fully funded opportunity that enables talented individuals from eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue a full-time taught master’s degree in the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), this scholarship aims to support sustainable development by equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to drive positive change in their home countries. It covers all major expenses, including tuition fees, travel, living costs, and family allowances, making it possible for those who could not otherwise afford a UK education to study at world-class universities.
The Commonwealth Scholarship programme has a legacy spanning over six decades, with more than 31,000 alumni since 1959, including prime ministers, Nobel laureates, diplomats, and NGO leaders. Scholars join a vibrant global community that fosters professional growth, collaboration, and lifelong connections. The programme is designed around six CSC development themes, ensuring that study aligns with critical areas such as health, innovation, peace and governance, and resilience.
Commonwealth Masters Scholarship Benefits
- Approved return airfare from home country to the UK.
- Full tuition fees covered.
- Monthly stipend of £1,712 per month, or £2,000 per month for London-based universities.
- Warm clothing allowance.
- Thesis or dissertation grant.
- Study travel grant for academic visits within or outside the UK.
- Family allowances: £622 per month for the first child and £154 for each additional child under 16 if you are a single, widowed, or divorced parent.
- Additional allowance for a disabled person.
Commonwealth Masters Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a citizen of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person.
- Must be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Available to start academic studies in the UK by September 2027.
- Hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) first degree, or a lower second-class (2:2) degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- Must be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- All required supporting documents must be submitted in the required format.
- There is no age limit for CSC applications.
- CSC does not normally fund a second Master’s degree; applicants for a second Master’s must explain why they need this study.
- Not eligible if you have already studied at Master’s level at a UK institution or have already received a Commonwealth Scholarship at Master’s level.
Eligible Countries
Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, 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, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
How to Apply for Commonwealth Masters Scholarship
- Apply through one of the nominating bodies: National Nominating Agencies or selected Non-Governmental Organizations and Charitable Bodies.
- CSC does not accept direct applications; you must also apply through the CSC online application system (CSC Central).
- Check the nominating body’s specific eligibility requirements and deadline, as they may differ.
- Complete both the nominating body’s application and the CSC application separately.
- Submit your application via the CSC online system by the deadline; applications not submitted through this system will not be accepted.
- Upload at least two reference letters in PDF format, along with all other required supporting documents.
- The application window for the 2027/28 academic year opens on 8 September 2026 and closes on 20 October 2026 at 16:00 BST.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2027. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply, helping you navigate the application process smoothly.
What is the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship?
It is a fully funded scholarship for citizens of eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to study a full-time taught master’s degree at a UK university. The scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and aims to nurture individuals who will contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
Who is eligible to apply?
You must be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country (or a British Protected Person) and permanently resident there. Academically, you need at least a 2:1 first degree, or a 2:2 with a relevant postgraduate qualification. You must also demonstrate financial need and be unable to study in the UK without the scholarship.
What expenses does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers return airfare, full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend (£1,712 or £2,000 for London), warm clothing allowance, thesis costs, study travel grants, and family allowances for dependent children. Disabled scholars also receive an additional allowance.
How do I apply for the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship?
You must apply through one of the approved nominating bodies (national nominating agencies or selected NGOs/charities) and simultaneously submit an application via the CSC’s online system. Both applications are required, and each nominating body may set its own rules and deadlines.
When is the application deadline?
For the 2027/28 academic year, applications open on 8 September 2026 and close on 20 October 2026 at 16:00 BST. All materials, including reference letters, must be submitted through the CSC online system by this deadline.
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
Yes, but the CSC does not normally fund a second Master’s degree. You must clearly explain why you need to undertake a second Master’s and how it supports your development goals. However, if you previously studied at Master’s level at a UK institution or held a Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship, you are not eligible.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit. The selection is based on merit, development impact, and academic potential, not on age.
What supporting documents are required?
You need to submit all required documents in the specified format. At least two reference letters must be included, uploaded in PDF format. Other documents typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, and a valid passport. Check the nominating body’s list for any additional requirements.
How are scholars selected?
Selection is a competitive process that considers academic excellence, the potential to contribute to the development of your home country, and alignment with the six CSC development themes. Applications are first assessed by nominating bodies, and then final decisions are made by the CSC.
Can I study at any UK university with this scholarship?
Yes, you may choose any recognized UK university that offers a full-time taught master’s programme. However, placement is subject to the scholarship regulations and the nominating body’s rules. You should secure an admission offer from your preferred institution as part of the application process.
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