Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2027-28

Overview

Fully funded doctoral study at a UK university for citizens of developing Commonwealth countries, prioritising research with clear development impact for the applicant's home country.

About Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK)

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK administers scholarships funded by the UK government specifically for citizens of other Commonwealth countries, with a mandate that prioritizes candidates who can demonstrate their study will contribute to development back home. PhD Scholarships are one of several Commonwealth Scholarship categories (alongside Master's and Split-Site awards), and are among the most competitive routes into a fully funded doctorate at a UK university for candidates from developing Commonwealth countries.

Coverage & Financial Benefits

• Full tuition fees for up to 4 years
• Monthly stipend for living costs
• Approved return airfare to the UK
• Research Training Support Grant and, where applicable, fieldwork costs

Requirements & Eligibility

• Citizen of an eligible Commonwealth developing country
• Hold, or be about to complete, a relevant master's degree (or equivalent research experience)
• Apply through your country's nominating agency, not directly to the CSC
• Research proposal with a clear development-impact statement

Required Documents

How to Apply

1. 1Confirm your country is eligible and check whether it's classified as a 'developing' or 'high-income' Commonwealth country, since eligibility and funding rules differ.
2. 2Secure conditional or unconditional admission to a UK university's PhD programme, as most Commonwealth Scholarship categories require this before or alongside applying.
3. 3Submit your application through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's official online portal by the published deadline.