Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship apply: Eligibility & Process

You might be reading this with a mix of hope and nerves. I remember the quiet excitement of finding an opportunity that could change everything. This guide is written so you can see the path clearly.

You will get a clear overview of the journey: who should submit an application, what funding covers at a UK university, and the official deadline of 14 October 2025. The commonwealth scholarship commission runs these prestigious awards to support talented individuals from eligible countries who commit to sustainable development at home.

You will learn what “fully funded” really means tuition, return airfare, a monthly stipend and other allowances so you can focus on study and impact. For the official online application system, follow this link to the detailed guidance: official application guidance.

Table of Contents

Who the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are for and what they cover

This award targets talented candidates who can’t afford UK study and who will return to drive change in their home country. You must meet strict eligibility criteria and show both academic strength and clear potential to deliver development outcomes.

Eligibility snapshot

You must be a citizen of, or hold recognised refugee status in, an eligible commonwealth country and be permanently resident there when you apply. By September 2026 you need an undergraduate degree at least at 2:1 honours level and to be ready to start study in the UK.

Refugee status and support

If you have recognised refugee status, prepare clear documentation and seek country‑specific guidance. For help, consult UNHCR services to present status evidence correctly and strengthen your case.

What fully funded covers and the expected impact

Fully funded means approved tuition fees, return airfare and a monthly stipend (currently £1,347 or £1,652 in London). Where relevant, additional allowance items such as warm clothing or family support are included.

Tuition fees in full
Return airfare and a living stipend
Possible allowances for dependants and essentials

«Selection focuses on academic merit, a strong study plan and the clear benefit your study will bring to your home country.«

For the official application guidance, see the official application guidance.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship apply: your step‑by‑step path

Plan your submission timeline now so every document, reference and statement is ready well before the closing hour.

Key dates: the deadline is 14 October 2025 at 16:00 BST. Build a backwards plan for drafting, securing referees and uploading documents so you finish early and avoid timezone risks.

Using the CSC online system

Register on the CSC Masters portal: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/masters. The commonwealth scholarship commission administers the awards through this application system.

Nominating agencies explained

Decide whether to use a nominating agency and list it in the portal where requested. For southern African candidates, Canon Collins Trust nominates applicants from South Africa and neighbouring countries.

Where to submit and integrity rules

Submit only via the official online application link do not email documents to third‑party agencies.
Follow any country‑specific guidance in the portal and keep entries consistent if you involve a nominating agency.
Do not use AI tools to write or edit your materials where agencies prohibit them; this can cause disqualification.

«Complete your submission well before 14 October 2025 to avoid last‑minute issues and ensure referees can confirm references.«

Documents, selection and themes that strengthen your application

Start with documents that prove your identity, achievement and status, then map your study to development priorities.

Documents checklist: prepare official university transcripts and degree certificates, two recent references, and valid proof of citizenship or recognised refugee status.

Include any evidence of financial need if requested and check file formats in the online application system. Incomplete uploads can lead to rejection by nominating bodies such as Canon Collins.

Submission format and referee guidance

Follow size and format rules exactly in the application system. Ask referees early and give them clear points to address: academic merit, leadership and your potential impact.

Selection criteria and development themes

Selection rests on your academic record, a strong study plan and convincing evidence of likely impact in your home country. Tie your proposal to at least one development theme below.

Science and technology for development
Strengthening health systems
Promoting global prosperity
Strengthening peace, security and governance
Resilience and response to crises
Access, inclusion and opportunity

Detail how allowances (for example warm clothing or family support) will be used and show a realistic budget for living costs at university in the UK.

«Show clear links between your study and sustainable development outcomes back home.»

For a practical checklist and further tips, consult the full application checklist.

Take your next step today: secure your opportunity to study in the UK

Start your final preparations today. Register on the CSC online application system and map every task to the 14 October 2025 deadline so your submission is complete and on time.

Review eligibility, funding and development fit confirm your permanent residence or refugee status, gather references and check allowance and stipend levels. Decide if a nominating agency such as Canon Collins Trust is relevant for South Africa and follow their guidance carefully.

Submit only via the official system, keep copies of your files and plan finances around the stipend and location. Back yourself: these opportunities exist for individuals who need support to study and deliver measurable development impact at home.

(FAQ) – Everything You Need to Know

Who is eligible to apply for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship and what academic standards are required?

You must be a national of, or have the right to reside in, an eligible Commonwealth country or be permanently resident in one. Typical academic requirements include a first degree with upper second-class honours (2:1) or a lower second-class (2:2) with a relevant postgraduate diploma or professional qualification. You should check the nominating agency in your country for specific thresholds and any additional requirements set by partner universities.

Can I submit an application if I have recognised refugee status?

Yes. If you have recognised refugee status and are ordinarily resident in an eligible country, you may be able to apply. You will need official documentation proving your status and residency. Contact your national nominating agency or the online application helpdesk for guidance on acceptable proof and any country-specific routes for refugees.

What does “fully funded” cover under this award?

Fully funded support typically covers tuition fees, approved airfare to and from the UK, a maintenance stipend, and limited allowances such as thesis grant, warm clothing, and family allowances where applicable. Exact entitlements depend on the year of award and your study location; refer to the official programme page and the CSC application notes for the full list of allowances.

How does the scheme tie into sustainable development and benefits for my home country?

The selection favours applicants whose proposed study aligns with one of the Commission’s development themes, such as climate resilience, health, or economic development. You should explain how your course and future work will deliver practical, measurable impact in your home country and support long-term development priorities.

What is the deadline and key dates for the next round?

The main deadline for nominations and applications is 14 October 2025, 16:00 BST. National nominating agencies often set earlier internal deadlines so you should contact them well in advance. Allow time for securing references, transcripts and any employer permissions.

How do I use the online application system and where do I find country guidance?

Applications are made via the Commission’s online application portal. Each eligible country has guidance on its nominating agency page, which explains local procedures and supported courses. Create your account early, save drafts regularly, and follow the help notes for uploading documents and entering referee details.

What are nominating agencies and how do they support candidates?

Nominating agencies are local organisations authorised to select and endorse candidates for the award. Examples include regional trusts, universities, and development bodies such as the Canon Collins Trust in southern Africa. They provide country guidance, run workshops, and may shortlist candidates before forwarding nominations to the Commission.

Where should I submit my application and how do I avoid unofficial channels?

Always use the official online portal linked from the Commission’s government website or your national nominating agency page. Do not use third-party sites that offer paid application services. If in doubt, contact the nominating agency directly to confirm the correct link and process.

What documents do I need and what format should they be in?

Prepare degree transcripts, degree certificates, two academic references (or one academic and one professional if necessary), proof of nationality or residency, and a detailed study plan. Scan documents as clear PDFs, name files logically, and ensure translations are certified if originals are not in English.

How are candidates selected and what are the development themes used by the Commission?

Selection is competitive and based on academic merit, leadership potential, and the likely development impact of your study. The Commission assesses applications against six development themes, including global health, climate change and environmental action, and inclusive economic growth. Address these themes clearly in your proposal and personal statement to strengthen your case.