- The Commonwealth PhD 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 for the application process
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are prestigious awards offered to students from developing and low-income Commonwealth countries.
Funded by the UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships aim to support high-achieving individuals who demonstrate strong academic potential and have the capacity to contribute significantly to the development of their home countries.
These scholarships focus on research that has a developmental impact, enabling scholars to return to their home countries with advanced skills and knowledge to drive progress in their respective fields.
Key areas of focus
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships align with six themes:
1. Science and technology for development
2. Strengthening health systems and capacity
3. Promoting global prosperity
4. Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
5. Strengthening resilience and response to crises
6. Access, inclusion, and opportunity
The applicant's research proposals should ideally contribute to one or more of these areas and demonstrate a clear link to the socio-economic development of the scholar's home country.
Eligibility criteria
To apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships, applicants must:
- Be a citizen or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard or a second class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- Not be registered for a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD, at a UK university before September/October 2025.
- Be available to start their academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year in September 2025.
- An applicant must provide evidence that he might not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
- An applicant must have provided all the necessary documents in the required format.
- If a candidate is declared disabled, additional financial support will be provided after a thorough assessment.
Benefits of the scholarship
Recipients of the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships will benefit from:
- Full tuition fees coverage at the UK institution.
- Stipend (living allowance) to cover accommodation and living expenses.
- Travel costs to and from the UK.
- Study-related costs, including fieldwork expenses if applicable.
- Family allowances, including support for the scholar’s spouse and children (under certain conditions).
Application process
Below is a breakdown of the steps involved in the application process for the Commonwealth PhD scholarship:
1. Check the eligibility and themes: Before starting the application, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and that your proposed research aligns with one of the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship themes.
2. Identify a nominating agency: All Commonwealth PhD Scholarship applications must be submitted through a nominating agency in the candidate’s home country. These agencies include government ministries, university bodies, and other institutions in Commonwealth countries. It is crucial to identify which agency is responsible for nominating applicants from your country, as they are responsible for selecting and forwarding applications to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
3. Research UK universities and supervisors: Identify potential UK universities and PhD supervisors who can support your proposed research, contact them in advance to discuss your research proposal and get their input and support. A letter of support from a prospective supervisor is an advantage during the application process.
4. Prepare the required documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Research Proposal: A clear and detailed plan of the proposed research, demonstrating its relevance to development in the applicant’s home country.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Copies of degrees and transcripts from previous educational institutions.
- References: Two or three academic referees who can provide detailed reports on the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for research.
- Supporting Statement from a Supervisor: It is highly recommended to obtain a supporting statement from a prospective UK supervisor.
- Passport or Birth Certificate: Proof of identity and citizenship.
- Publications: List up to 10 publications and prizes
5. Complete the online application form: Applications for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are submitted online via the CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS). The applicant must first create an account, fill out the application form, and upload the necessary documents.
Important dates for 2025-26
- Deadline for applications: October 15
- Nomination deadline: Check with the nomination body you choose.
- Selection outcome: March – July 2025
- Start of PhD program: September 2025
With full financial support and a focus on impactful research, these scholarships represent a life-changing opportunity for scholars dedicated to making a difference through their academic pursuits.
For more information and updates, it is advisable to regularly visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website and keep in touch with your country’s nominating agency.
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