Commonwealth PhD Scholarship

About this scholarship

Covers full tuition, return airfare, and a living stipend plus allowances for doctoral study in the UK. Up to 3 years PhD (or split-site option)

Commonwealth PhD Scholarship eligibility criteria

• Be a citizen of, or granted refugee status by, an eligible developing Commonwealth country
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country
• Hold at least an upper second class (2:1) honours degree, or a 2:2 plus a relevant master's
• Not already be registered for a PhD or MPhil leading to a PhD before the start of the award
• Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship
• Be available to start doctoral studies by the required start date

Benefits and coverage

• Full tuition fees paid to the UK university
• Approved return airfare from home country to the UK
• Monthly living allowance (stipend)
• Warm clothing allowance, where applicable
• Study travel grant towards study-related travel costs
• Child allowance for eligible single-parent scholars

Required documents

• At least two references
• Full higher education transcripts (with certified translations if needed)
• Proof of citizenship or refugee status
• Supporting statement from a proposed UK supervisor
• Research proposal / development impact statement
• Completed CSC online application (EAS)

How to apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship

1. Review the eligibility criteria above and confirm you meet every requirement.
2. Prepare all required documents early — transcripts, CV, recommendation letters and motivation letter.
3. Mid-October annually via the CSC online system Submit a complete application before the October deadline.
4. Always confirm the latest details on the official website before applying.

Frequently asked questions