Hey future game-changers! Ready to take your education to the next level? If you’re dreaming of pursuing a Master’s or PhD in the UK and making a real difference in your home country, then you absolutely need to hear about the Commonwealth Master’s and PhD Scholarships. This incredible bursary, specifically for students from developing Commonwealth countries like South Africa, could be your golden ticket to world-class education.
The Commonwealth Master’s and PhD Scholarships are designed to empower talented individuals from developing Commonwealth nations to study at top universities across the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these bursaries aren’t just about getting a degree; they’re about supporting research and studies that will have a positive, developmental impact back home. Think of it as investing in your potential to help build a better future!
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for these life-changing Commonwealth Master’s and PhD Bursaries, you’ll need to tick a few boxes:
- You must be a citizen of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country. Good news, South Africa is on the list!
- You need to be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be available to start your academic studies (Master’s or PhD) in the UK by September 2026.
- By September 2026, you should hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard. If you have a lower second-class degree, you’ll need a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- The CSC generally doesn’t fund a second UK Master’s degree, so if you’re applying for one, you’ll need a strong justification.
- For PhD applicants specifically: You must not be already registered for a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD, at a UK university or in your home country before September/October 2026.
- You must be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- You must provide all supporting documentation in the required format.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is super generous and aims to cover everything you’ll need for your studies in the UK, including:
- Your return airfare to and from the United Kingdom.
- Full tuition and examination fees.
- A living stipend (currently £1,378 per month, or £1,690 per month if your university is in the London metropolitan area).
- A study travel grant to help with research-related travel.
- A warm clothing allowance (essential for those UK winters!).
- Plus, other benefits to ensure you can focus on your studies without financial worry.
How to Apply?
Alright, listen up, this part is crucial! The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) does NOT accept direct applications for these bursaries. Instead, you need to apply through one of their approved nominating bodies. Think of them as your gateway to the bursary!
Your options for nominating bodies include:
- National Nominating Agencies (this is the most common route).
- Selected Non-Governmental Organisations and Charitable Bodies.
- For PhD Scholarships only: Selected UK Universities/University Bodies, which can nominate their own academic staff.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Find your Nominating Body: First, you MUST contact your chosen nominating body to understand their specific application process, eligibility criteria, and their own internal closing dates. These can vary!
- Complete the CSC’s Application: Once you’re sorted with a nominating body, you’ll also need to complete your application using the CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS). This is in addition to any forms your nominating body requires.
The final deadline for submitting your application through the CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS) is 14 October 2025 at 16:00 BST (15:00 GMT). Remember, your nominating body might have an earlier deadline, so don’t delay!
It’s super important to visit the official websites for all the nitty-gritty details and to access the EAS system. You’ll find everything you need to know there:
- Official Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship Website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-masters-scholarships/
- Official Commonwealth PhD Scholarship Website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-phd-scholarships-for-least-developed-countries-and-vulnerable-states/
If this sounds like the perfect opportunity to boost your career and contribute to your community, don’t hesitate — get those applications in! Explore this and many more bursaries right here on Bursaries Room to find your next big academic adventure!
