- The Commonwealth Master's Scholarship 2024/2025 session is now open
- The scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, airfare, and other expenses for international students from developing Commonwealth nations
- Here are step-by-step guides on the application process
The Commonwealth Master's Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students aiming to pursue their postgraduate studies in the UK.
This fully funded scholarship provides outstanding students from developing Commonwealth countries with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and aims to support students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
The scholarships are awarded to students who show academic excellence and the potential to contribute to the sustainable development goals of their home countries.
Key benefits of Commonwealth scholarship
1. Tuition fees: Full coverage for the entire period of study.
2. Stipend: Monthly living allowance (stipend) of around £1,347, or £1,652 for those at universities in the London metropolitan area (as of 2024 figures, which may be updated for 2025).
3. Airfare: Return airfare from the home country to the UK.
4. Warm clothing allowance: For students from tropical countries to the cold UK climate.
5. Thesis grant: Assistance with the costs of preparing a thesis or dissertation.
6. Study travel grant: Covers travel costs for study purposes within or outside the UK, if necessary.
7. Family allowance: An additional family allowance may be provided if their spouse and/or children accompany a scholar.
Eligibility criteria for Commonwealth scholarship 2025
1. Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
2. Academic qualifications: Applicants should have completed their undergraduate studies and hold at least an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent. Sometimes, a lower qualification and sufficient relevant experience may be considered.
3. Commitment to development: Strong preference is given to students who can provide evidence of their ability to implement change to sustainable growth in their home countries upon completing their studies.
4. Not studying or working in a high-income country: The scholarship is intended for students not currently studying or working in a high-income country.
5. Proof of English proficiency: Most UK universities require international students to provide proof of English language proficiency, typically through IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Steps on the application process
Applying for the Commonwealth Master's Scholarship requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and submit a strong application.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility
Before beginning the application process, ensure you meet the following basic eligibility criteria:
1. Nationality: You must be a citizen of, or have refugee status in, a Commonwealth country.
2. Education: You must hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second-class honours (2:1) degree.
3. Purpose: You must demonstrate your commitment to contributing to the development of your home country.
4. Residency: You should not be currently working or studying in a high-income country.
Step 2: Choose an eligible Master's program and university
1. Identify your study focus: Choose a field of study aligned with one of the following themes:
- Science and technology for development
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Access, inclusion, and opportunity
2. Select an eligible University: Check the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's (CSC) website for a list of universities partnered with the scholarship. These institutions often have specific programs eligible for funding under the Commonwealth scholarship.
3. Contact the university: If needed, contact the university’s admissions office for guidance on how to apply for the program you are interested in. Some universities may have additional requirements, such as proof of English proficiency.
Step 3: Register and Apply Online via CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS)
Once you have confirmed your eligibility and selected a program, you must complete the online application. Here's how:
1. Go to the CSC's EAS portal: Visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's Electronic Application System (EAS) (https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply/masters-scholarships/) portal to begin your application.
2. Create an account: Register an account on the EAS portal. You must provide basic details, such as name, email, and citizenship.
3. Complete the application form:
- Personal Information: Fill in your contact information and citizenship details.
- Academic Background: Upload academic transcripts and degree certificates from your previous education.
- Proposed Study in the UK: Provide details about the Master's program and university you are applying to.
- Development Impact Statement: Write a detailed statement outlining how your proposed study will help you contribute to the sustainable development of your home country. Be specific about your goals and how they align with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Career Plans: Explain your long-term career goals and how you intend to use the knowledge gained from your studies to address challenges in your country.
4. Upload Supporting Documents: You will be required to upload the following documents:
- Transcripts and Certificates: Official copies of your degree certificates and academic transcripts.
- References: Two references from academic or professional sources who can comment on your ability to succeed in a Master’s program. Ensure they are submitted before the application deadline.
- Proof of English Proficiency: (If required) Upload a valid IELTS or TOEFL score to prove your English language ability. Some universities may waive this requirement if your undergraduate degree is taught in English.
Step 4: Secure a nomination
A nominating body must endorse your application. Follow these steps to secure a nomination:
1. Identify Your Nominating Body:
- National Nominating Agencies: Most countries have a national agency that handles nominations for Commonwealth Scholarships. This is often a government department, such as the Ministry of Education or Foreign Affairs.
- Nominating Universities or NGOs: Some Commonwealth universities and organisations can nominate students directly.
2. Apply for nomination:
- Check deadlines: Nominating bodies have submission deadlines, typically earlier than the CSC deadline. Contact the relevant body in your country for specific instructions on how to apply for a nomination.
- Submit required documents: Provide any additional documents requested by the nominating agency, such as letters of recommendation, CVs, and development statements.
3. Await nomination confirmation: Once you submit your application to the nominating body, they will evaluate and decide whether to forward it to the CSC for final consideration.
Step 5: Submit the final application
After completing the EAS application and securing your nomination, you must ensure your final application is successfully submitted before the deadline, October 15:
1. Review your application: Double-check all the sections of your application, ensuring all details are correct and all documents have been uploaded.
2. Submit your application: Submit the completed application on the EAS portal. After submission, you will receive a confirmation email with a unique application reference number.
The Commonwealth Master's Scholarship for 2025 is an incredible opportunity for talented individuals from developing Commonwealth nations to advance their education and careers while contributing to the sustainable development of their home countries.
With complete financial support, world-class academic training, and opportunities to connect with global leaders, this scholarship helps shape the next generation of change-makers.
Aspiring applicants should begin their preparations early to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and submit compelling applications highlighting their potential to contribute to their country's development.
Key dates to remember
- Nomination deadline: Check with the nomination body you choose.
- CSC application deadline: October 15, 2024
- Results announced: March/April 2025
- Course start: September/October 2025
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