The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025/26 Offers Fully Funded Part-Time Programs
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025/26 offers fully funded part-time programs UK Master’s degrees for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship supports online study at UK universities and aims to promote sustainable development, international collaboration, and leadership potential through education.
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Background & Programme Description
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship is one of three prestigious Master’s programmes administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC). It provides an opportunity for academically talented and motivated individuals from low and middle-income Commonwealth nations to pursue part-time postgraduate study remotely with UK universities—without the need to relocate.
These scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), aiming to empower individuals with the skills necessary to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. The initiative supports the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), which emphasizes capacity-building, innovation, and leadership.
Scholarship Purpose
This scholarship allows candidates to:
- Gain advanced training and specialized knowledge through UK university programs.
- Study remotely and part-time, eliminating the cost of relocation.
- Enhance their ability to contribute to development in their home country.
The programme aligns with one of six development themes defined by the CSC:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion, and opportunity
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025/26 Offers Fully Funded Part-Time Programs
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently resident in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country.
- Hold at least an upper second-class undergraduate degree or equivalent.
- Not be registered for a Master’s course at a UK university before applying.
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
How to Apply
- Select a Course & University:
Choose an eligible Master’s course from a participating UK university. The list of eligible courses can be found on the CSC website. - Apply Online via CSC’s EAS (Electronic Application System):
Fill out your scholarship application on the CSC’s official application portal:
👉 Apply through the CSC Application Portal - University Admission:
You must also apply for admission to your selected university course separately. - Submit Required Documents:
Supporting documents include:- Proof of citizenship and permanent residence
- Full academic transcripts
- References
- University admission documentation (if available)
Tips & Advice for Applicants
- Start early. Applications for both the scholarship and university admission may involve different timelines.
- Align your academic background and future goals with the CSC’s development themes.
- Choose referees who are familiar with your professional and academic capabilities.
- Prepare a strong personal statement that highlights your goals and development impact.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be from one of the following eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries, including (but not limited to):
- Bangladesh
- Cameroon
- Ghana
- India
- Kenya
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Rwanda
- Sierra Leone
- Sri Lanka
- Tanzania
- The Gambia
- Uganda
- Zambia
Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Selection Process
- Applications are assessed based on academic merit, quality of the study plan, and potential impact on the development of the applicant’s home country.
- Selected scholars will be informed by the CSC or the participating UK university directly.
Additional Information
- Application Deadline: To be announced soon on the official CSC website.
- Funding Coverage: The scholarship covers full tuition fees and other necessary costs for distance learning.
- Contact for Enquiries:
Email: distance.learning@cscuk.org.uk
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