Call for Applications: Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2026 in UK
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship offers international students the opportunity to pursue a part-time taught Master’s degree with UK universities while remaining in their home countries.
The scholarship is designed to attract individuals with outstanding talent and clear leadership potential from diverse backgrounds and empower them to become innovators and change-makers contributing to sustainable development in their home countries.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Mode: Distance Learning (Study from home country)
- Category: Postgraduate | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Commonwealth Countries
- Scholarship Value: Full Scholarship | Up to £18,000 per year | Travel & Visa (for required UK residential programmes)
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 (16:00 GMT)
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Scholarship Details
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships enable talented and motivated individuals to gain knowledge and skills essential for sustainable development.
Scholarships are awarded under six development themes:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion and opportunity
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of, have refugee status in, or be a British Protected Person from an eligible Commonwealth country
- Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard (lower qualifications with substantial relevant experience may be considered)
- Demonstrate financial need and be unable to afford the programme without the scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) is committed to equal opportunity and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including persons with disabilities.
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Scholarship Benefits
The CSC provides funding up to £18,000 per scholarship. If programme costs exceed this amount, universities may contribute additional funding from approved sources.
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Study-related costs
- Partnership development costs
- Costs related to required UK residential programmes (if applicable)
If a UK Residential Programme is Required
The university must provide at least:
- Return travel from the scholar’s home country to the UK
- UK visa costs
Monthly maintenance stipend:
- £1,133 per month
- £1,390 per month (for scholars in London)
These rates are set by the UK government and may increase annually.
Required Documents
Information Required in the Application Form:
- List of all undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications
- Up to 10 publications and prizes
- Detailed employment history (with relevance to the chosen programme)
- Statement explaining how previous experience relates to the scholarship
- Two referees (one must be a current employer, if applicable)
- A four-part Development Impact statement
Documents to Upload:
- Proof of citizenship or refugee status (passport or national ID showing photo, date of birth, and nationality)
- Full academic transcripts (with certified English translations if necessary)
- At least two references (on institutional letterhead or official email)
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Applications for the 2025/26 academic year are now open.
- Apply for admission to an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university.
- Submit a separate application through the CSC online application system.
- Ensure both applications are completed before the deadline:
Thursday, 31 March 2026 at 16:00 (GMT).
Applicants may apply to more than one course and university but can only accept one Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship offer.
Note: The scholarship is strictly for Master’s programmes only. It does not cover undergraduate or PhD studies. Always check the specific admission requirements and deadlines of your chosen university.
