Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme

What the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship covers

You will receive a full scholarship for a one-year Master’s programme at University College London (UCL). This covers all your tuition fees. You will also receive a living allowance to cover your daily expenses, as well as a return economy-class flight to the UK at the start and end of your studies, and a number of additional allowances. The funding covers 12 months, which corresponds to the duration of one academic year. It is jointly funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (supported by the UK Government) and UCL. Up to 8 of these scholarships are available for the 2026/27 academic year.

Who can apply

• Where you come from: You are a citizen, have permanent residence status, are a recognised refugee, or are under British protection in one of the 45 eligible Commonwealth countries. These include Bangladesh, Ghana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda.
• Your programme: You are applying for one of the on-campus Master’s programmes at UCL listed in a specified list, such as the MSc in ‘Global Health and Development’, the MSc in ‘Urban Economic Development’, the MSc in ‘Clinical Drug Development’ or the MA ‘Education, Gender and International Development’.
• Your grades: By September 2026, you must have obtained a first-class or upper second-class bachelor’s degree (2:1). A lower second-class degree (2:2) is also acceptable, provided you can demonstrate a relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Admission: You have also applied to UCL for a place on your chosen degree programme, independently of the scholarship.
• Time abroad: You have neither studied nor worked in a high-income country for a year or more.
• Financial need: Without this scholarship, you wouldn’t have been able to afford to study in the UK.
• Age: No age limit.

How to apply

You are applying for two positions at the same time. Please apply via the CSC Central online portal by 9 December 2025 and apply to UCL for admission to one of the eligible degree programmes. A panel at UCL and its Scholarships Office will select the candidates and put them forward. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission will then confirm the final selection.

How realistic are your chances?

As there are only up to 8 places available on a short list of specific Master’s programmes, and applicants come from 45 countries, this place is highly sought-after. Your chances will improve if your background clearly aligns with the programme’s focus – development in your home country – and you can demonstrate good academic results and leadership potential. A convincing explanation of how your studies will benefit your country is more important than your grades alone; therefore, please submit your application well in advance of the December deadline.