Summary
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026-27 offers a unique opportunity for exceptional postgraduate students seeking professional development while remaining in their home countries. These fully-funded scholarships aim to empower individuals who lack access to training in their native regions, contributing to sustainable development goals.
- 🎓 Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–27 (UK) offer fully funded Master’s opportunities for talented postgraduate students who cannot access quality education in their home countries.
- 🌍 Hosted in the entity[“country”,”United Kingdom”,”european country”], the program allows scholars to study remotely at recognized UK universities while staying in their home country.
- 💰 Funded by the entity[“organization”,”Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office”,”uk government department”] (FCDO), the scholarship supports the UK’s development goals and global partnerships.
- 📚 Degree Level: Master’s Degree (Distance Learning).
- 💸 Benefits: Full tuition fees covered + study grants (where required).
- 🧠 Designed to build skills aligned with sustainable development under six key themes, including science & technology, health systems, global prosperity, and peace & governance.
- 👩🏫 Scholars receive mentorship from world-class academics at top-ranked UK universities within a diverse international community.
- ✅ Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizen/refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Permanent resident of a developing Commonwealth country.
- Hold at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or lower with relevant experience).
- Unable to afford study without the scholarship.
- Provide three referees (one current employer if applicable).
- Secure admission to an approved UK Master’s course.
- 🌎 Eligible Countries Include: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Ghana, Malaysia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and many other Commonwealth nations.
- 📝 Application Process (Two Mandatory Steps):
1️⃣ Apply and secure admission to an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university.
2️⃣ Apply separately through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online portal (CSC Central). - 🔐 Applications require online registration with two-factor authentication (2FA), submission of academic details, employment history, development impact statement, study plan, personal statement, and referee details.
- 📂 Required Documents: Academic transcripts, certificates, three referees’ details, and proof of admission to an approved UK Master’s program.
- ⏰ Deadline: Submit your completed application by 31 March 2026 (16:00 BST). Early application is strongly recommended due to high traffic near the deadline.
- 🚀 A prestigious opportunity to gain UK education, enhance professional competencies, and contribute to sustainable development in your home country.
Designation
Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Host Universities | Participating UK Universities |
| Funded by | UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) |
| Degree Level | Master’s Degree Program |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
Research Area
Scholarships are offered in the following themes:
- Science and Technology for Development
- Strengthening Health Systems and Capacity
- Promoting Global Prosperity
- Strengthening Global Peace, Security, and Governance
Location
United Kingdom (studying from home country)
Eligibility/Qualification
- Must be a citizen of, or have refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person.
- Permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country.
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) standard by September 2026 (or relevant experience may be considered).
- Unable to afford to study the program without the scholarship.
- Provide three referees (one must be a current employer, if applicable).
- Apply for and secure admission to an approved master’s course at a participating UK university.
Description
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships offer fully-funded tuition and study grants for students aiming to enhance their professional skills. Sponsored by the FCDO, these scholarships focus on individuals unable to pursue advanced education due to financial constraints. Recipients benefit from supervision by world-class mentors and access to professional development training.
How to Apply
- Choose an Approved Course: Select a master’s course approved under the Commonwealth Distance Learning programme. Apply directly to the university.
- Apply Through the CSC Online System: Register in the CSC Central system and securely submit applications (email and postal submissions are not accepted).
- Complete the Application Form: Detail your qualifications, employment history, three referees, a Development Impact statement, and personal statement.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Include required documentation as specified.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Ensure submission before 16:00 BST on 31 March 2026.
Last Date for Apply
31 March 2026
For further details or to start your application, please visit the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website.
