Commonwealth Masters Scholarship 2027
Eligibility
- Citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country
- Applying for full time Master's study in the UK
- Unable to afford UK study without support
- A strong first degree relevant to the intended course
Who is not eligible: citizens of non-Commonwealth countries, and applicants who can already afford UK study independently.
What you need to apply
- A UK university Master's course offer or application in progress
- Academic transcripts
- References
- A personal statement on development impact goals
Position yourself
The Commonwealth Scholarship places real weight on how your studies connect to development impact back home. If your personal statement lacks a clear answer to what you plan to do with the qualification, close that gap before you apply.
What to do if you are not eligible
If your country is not on the eligible list, or you can already fund UK study independently, look at other UK funded scholarships open more broadly to international students.
Benefits
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Return airfare to and from the UK
How to apply
- Apply to your chosen UK Master's course
- Confirm your country's eligibility on the CSC website
- Complete the Commonwealth Scholarship application once it opens 8 September 2026
- Submit before 20 October 2026
Application tip
Connect your intended course of study directly to a specific problem in your home country that you plan to work on. Vague ambition reads far weaker than a concrete plan.
Frequently asked questions
Which African countries are eligible?
Most Commonwealth African countries are eligible. Check the official CSC list before applying.
Is this scholarship fully funded?
Yes, covering tuition, living costs and airfare.
Can I apply for a second UK Master's?
The CSC would not normally fund a second UK Master's degree without strong justification.
Other opportunities for African undergraduates and recent graduates: browse the full, current list on our Opportunities & Updates page.
Official application: apply through the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website once applications open 8 September 2026.