Applicants from fragile states and the least developed nations are eligible to apply for full-time PhD programs at UK universities through the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships. These scholarships, which are administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and funded by the UK Department for Education, are intended to promote excellent research with an emphasis on sustainable development. The full funding of the grant includes a £1,652 monthly stipend, tuition fees, and travel expenses. In addition to providing funding, the program improves each participant’s research and teaching abilities, which helps Commonwealth nations’ institutions flourish. By drawing outstanding foreign scholars and encouraging international cooperation, it also enhances higher education in the UK. This program demonstrates the UK’s ongoing dedication to promoting research and education throughout the Commonwealth.
Eligibility Criteria :
- Must be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country, a British Protected Person, or hold refugee status from a Commonwealth nation.
- Be permanently residing in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be ready to begin academic studies in the UK by September 2026.
- By September 2026, hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree, or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification (typically a Master’s).
- Must not be enrolled in a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD, either in the UK or in their home country before September/October 2026.
- Demonstrate financial need and inability to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- Submit all required supporting documents in the correct format.
The United Kingdom is the host nation (UK).
Study Location: UK
Category: PhD Programs | Postgraduate Scholarships
Applicants who are eligible: Commonwealth nationals
Benefits include flight coverage, a £1,781 monthly stipend, and full tuition funding.
Benefits :
- Approved round-trip airfare from home country to the UK at the start and end of the award (dependant fares not covered).
- Full tuition fees covered through an agreement between CSC and the UK university.
- Monthly stipend of £1,452, or £1,781 for universities in the London metropolitan area.
- Warm clothing allowance (if applicable).
- Study travel grant for academic-related travel in the UK or abroad.
- Support for approved overseas fieldwork, including one return economy airfare.
- Paid mid-term visit to the home country, unless spouse/child allowances are claimed or fieldwork travel has already been funded.
- Child allowance for single parents: £622 per month for the first child and £154 per month for the second and third child under 16.
Deadline: October 14, 2025
