Hey future leaders and changemakers! Dreaming of pursuing your Master’s degree in the UK but worried about the cost? We’ve got some incredible news for you! The Commonwealth Master’s Bursary 2026 is here, offering an amazing opportunity for students from eligible Commonwealth countries, including our very own South Africa, to study full-time in the UK. This isn’t just funding; it’s your ticket to world-class education and a chance to make a real impact on sustainable development.
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (which we’re referring to as a bursary for you!) are truly special. They’re funded by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and are designed to help talented individuals from low and middle-income Commonwealth nations get a top-tier Master’s education in the UK. Basically, if you’re driven, motivated, and otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford studying abroad, this bursary is made for you! It’s all about empowering you with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle global challenges and contribute to a better future.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for these incredible opportunities, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country (yes, South Africa is included!), or be a British Protected Person.
- Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be available to start your academic studies in the UK by the beginning of the UK academic year in September 2026.
- By September 2026, hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class degree along with a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this bursary.
- Have provided all supporting documentation in the required format by the deadline.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is super generous and aims to cover everything you need to focus on your studies! Each scholarship provides:
- Approved airfare from your home country to the UK and back at the end of your award (no need to stress about travel costs!).
- Approved tuition fees – fully covered by agreement between the CSC and the UK university. You won’t have to pay a cent!
- A monthly stipend (living allowance) at the rate of £1,452, or £1,781 per month if you’re at a university in the bustling London metropolitan area.
- A warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
- A study travel grant to help with the cost of study-related travel within the UK or overseas.
- If you have children and are a widowed, divorced, or single parent, a child allowance of £622 per month for the first child, and £154 per month for the second and third child under 16, provided they live with you in the UK.
Good news for those with disabilities: if you share that you have a disability, a full assessment of your needs and eligibility for additional financial support will be offered by the CSC.
Heads up: The CSC’s family allowances are intended as a contribution towards the cost of maintaining your family in the UK. Actual costs might be higher, so be prepared to supplement these allowances if family members join you.
How to Apply?
Ready to make your UK Master’s dream a reality? Applications for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year opened on 2 September 2025 (for study starting in September/October 2026).
You MUST apply through the official online application system, CSC Central. The CSC won’t accept any applications or documents submitted outside of this system, so make sure you follow the process carefully. To help you out, there’s a template application form and a guidance document available to assist you every step of the way!
For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the official webpage:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
This is a massive opportunity to elevate your education and career! If the Commonwealth Master’s Bursary sounds like your dream come true, don’t hesitate. Head over to the official page, gather your documents, and get your application in before the **14 October 2025** deadline. Your future self will thank you! And remember, for more amazing bursary opportunities like this, keep checking Bursaries Room!
