Study Free Masters in UK - Apply for the Fully Funded Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship in the UK 2026-2027
A prestigious and life-changing opportunity has been announced for brilliant minds across the Commonwealth. Applications are now officially open for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026, offering a chance to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in the United Kingdom. This scholarship is specifically designed for mid-career professionals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who possess the talent and drive to make a significant impact.
These fully funded scholarships in the UK are aimed at supporting exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds to become the next generation of leaders and innovators. The program's goal is to promote economic stability and peace by helping individuals who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. Through this UK scholarship, a platform is provided for students to develop their skills, enhance their knowledge, and study at top UK universities without the burden of financial constraints. Consequently, if you are seeking a transformative educational experience, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is an opportunity you should not miss.
A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
This distinguished master’s scholarship program is funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It serves as an accelerator for sustainable development by empowering talented and career-driven individuals. Since its inception in 1960, an incredible 30,000 scholarships have been awarded.
Furthermore, Commonwealth scholarships have a history of producing some of the world's most prominent and influential figures, including Prime Ministers, Nobel laureates, leading researchers, and heads of major organizations. Upon selection, scholars become part of a dynamic community for a lifetime. They can connect with a vast network of CSC alumni around the globe, which opens up a wide range of life-changing opportunities and collaborations.
Scholarship Development Themes
The Commonwealth Scholarships are offered under six key development themes, designed to motivate students to contribute to a better and more sustainable future.
- Science and Technology for Development: Fostering innovation and progress.
- Strengthening Health Systems and Capacity: Improving global health outcomes.
- Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Driving economic growth.
- Strengthening Global Peace, Security, and Governance: Building a more stable world.
- Strengthening Resilience and Response to Crises: Addressing global challenges.
- Access, Inclusion, and Opportunity: Ensuring equitable development for all.
Comprehensive Financial Benefits
This is a fully funded opportunity, meaning all major costs are covered.
- Full Tuition Fees: Your university tuition fees will be paid in full by the scholarship.
- Return Airfare: A return air ticket from your home country to the UK is provided.
- Monthly Stipend: A generous living allowance of £1,452 per month (or £1,781 for those at universities in the London metropolitan area) will be provided.
- Warm Clothing Allowance: An allowance is given to help you prepare for the UK climate.
- Thesis Grant: The cost of your thesis or dissertation will also be covered.
- Study Travel Grants: Provision for study-related travel grants within the UK or overseas is included.
- Family Allowances: In addition, scholars who are divorced, widowed, or single parents will receive a child allowance of £622 per month for the first child and £154 for the second and third child under 16.
- Disability Support: An additional allowance will be provided to assist scholars with disabilities.
Are You Eligible to Apply?
The eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are specific.
- Applicants must be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person.
- You must be a permanent resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- You must be available to start your academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year in September 2026.
- An undergraduate degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a second-class degree (2:2) and a relevant postgraduate qualification must be held.
- Crucially, you must be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- Please note: A second Master's degree would not usually be funded by the CSC. A strong justification is required if you are applying for a second master's.
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application must be submitted through the CSC’s online application system. It is important to know that direct applications are not accepted by the CSC.
- Nominating Bodies: You must apply through one of two types of nominating bodies:
- National Nominating Agencies (this is the main route for most applicants)
- Selected Non-Governmental Organisations and Charitable Bodies.
- Check Agency Rules: It is essential that you check the specific eligibility criteria and rules of your chosen nominating body. They may have their own earlier deadlines for applications.
- Submit Your Application: The online application form must be filled out carefully.
- References: Two references are required. Your referees will receive an email request to submit their references directly, so ensure they do so before the final deadline.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Application Deadline: The final date to apply via the CSC’s online system is 14 October 2025 at 16:00 GMT.
- Nominations: Agencies will nominate their selected candidates to the CSC by December 2025.
- Final Selection: The final results and selection of scholars will be announced by July 2026.