Business School University of Edinburgh - Business School Commonwealth Scholarships

What the Commonwealth Master's Scholarship gives you

You will receive a comprehensive package worth approximately 11,800 EUR to complete a one-year Master’s programme at the University of Edinburgh Business School. This covers your full tuition fees, return flights in economy class, and a monthly living allowance for the entire duration of the 12-month programme. You will also receive additional payments, such as an allowance for winter clothing during the colder months, a luggage allowance, and support for scholarship holders with a disability. The scholarship is funded by the UK Department for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). Edinburgh is one of several UK universities where you can study with this scholarship.

Who can apply

• Where you are from: You are a national of, or permanently resident in, one of the approximately 45 eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth countries (e.g. India, Nigeria, Kenya, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh or Jamaica). Applicants from small island states are particularly welcome.
• Degree you want to study: You are applying for a one-year full-time Master’s degree (MSc) at Edinburgh Business School, for example in the fields of management, marketing, finance and investment, or entrepreneurship and innovation. MBA programmes are not eligible for funding.
• Grades: You must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in the upper second class (2:1) or the lower second class (2:2), as well as a relevant Master’s degree.
• Financial need: You can demonstrate that you would not be able to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
• Previous study: You have not yet obtained a master’s degree from a British university and have not previously received a Commonwealth scholarship for a master’s degree.
• Return home: You undertake to return to your home country once the scholarship has ended.
• Age: No age limit.

How to apply

You cannot apply directly to the CSC. Applications must be made via the ‘CSC Central’ online portal and, at the same time, via the official nominating body in your home country. This body has its own criteria and deadlines. The application deadline for a degree programme starting in autumn 2027 is at 16 at 00 BST on 20. Your agency will then nominate selected candidates; the CSC will make the final decision, and the results are expected to be announced in July of the following year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a prestigious, high-calibre award that is open to applicants in dozens of countries, so competition is fierce. A nomination by your national agency does not guarantee selection. Your application must demonstrate both your academic achievements and a clear plan for how you intend to use your degree to contribute to the development of your home country. Prepare well in advance, meet the deadline set by your nominating agency, and establish a clear link between your studies and the needs of your country.