Hey future博士! Ever dreamt of getting your PhD at a top UK university with all your expenses covered? Well, buckle up, because the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are here to make that dream a reality for the 2026/2027 academic year! This is an incredible, fully-funded opportunity specifically designed to support brilliant minds from eligible Commonwealth countries. Let’s dive in and see if this epic bursary is your next big step!
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are prestigious awards that enable students from least developed countries and vulnerable states within the Commonwealth to pursue full-time doctoral study at a university in the UK. This isn’t just about covering tuition; it’s a comprehensive package designed to remove financial barriers, allowing you to focus entirely on your groundbreaking research. If you’re ready to contribute to global development and innovation, this could be your chance!
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this life-changing Commonwealth PhD Bursary, you need to tick a few boxes:
- You must be a citizen of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country (specifically those classified as least developed countries and vulnerable states by the OECD Development Assistance Committee – DAC). You can also be a British Protected Person.
- You need to be permanently living in one of these eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Be ready to start your academic adventure in the UK by September 2026.
- By September 2026, you should have a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, OR a lower second-class degree plus a relevant postgraduate qualification (like a Master’s degree).
- You shouldn’t already be registered for a PhD (or an MPhil leading to a PhD) at a UK university or in your home country before September/October 2026.
- It’s essential that you genuinely can’t afford to study in the UK without this bursary.
- Make sure all your supporting documents are submitted in the correct format – no shortcuts here!
It’s super important to check if your country is on the OECD DAC list of least developed countries and vulnerable states to ensure you meet this specific eligibility requirement.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is super generous and aims to cover pretty much everything you’ll need! Here’s a breakdown:
- Your approved airfare from your home country to the UK and back once your award ends. (Note: it won’t cover travel for dependants or trips made before the award is confirmed).
- All approved tuition fees are covered – the CSC handles this directly with your chosen UK university, so you won’t pay a cent.
- A monthly stipend (living allowance) of £1,452, or £1,781 if you’re studying at a university in the London metropolitan area (these rates are current).
- A warm clothing allowance, if applicable (hello, UK winters!).
- A study travel grant for any study-related travel within the UK or overseas.
- Funding for approved overseas fieldwork, including one economy class return airfare to your fieldwork location.
- A paid mid-term visit home (airfare), unless you’re claiming family allowances or had a fieldwork return flight.
- Family allowances, if you’re accompanied by your spouse and/or children (specific conditions and rates apply, but they’re generous!).
- If you share that you have a disability, the CSC will do a full assessment of your needs and offer additional financial support.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on this amazing opportunity? Here’s how you can apply:
- Applications for the 2026/27 academic year open on 2 September 2025.
- You must apply using the official CSC application system, called CSC Central.
- Important: The CSC cannot accept applications or documents sent in any other way, so stick to CSC Central!
For all the detailed information and to submit your application, head straight to the official website:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
If you’re from an eligible Commonwealth country and this sounds like the perfect bursary to kickstart your PhD journey, don’t wait – mark your calendars for the application opening date and get ready to apply! While you’re here, why not explore more fantastic bursaries on Bursaries Room to secure your future funding?
