The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2025-26 are a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for students from least-developed and vulnerable states to pursue doctoral studies in the UK. The fully-funded doctoral scholarships aim to nurture future global leaders, innovators, and researchers by providing them with the academic resources and financial support they need to excel.
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships empower individuals to contribute to the sustainable development of their home countries through advanced research and innovation. By selecting candidates with high potential from countries facing significant development challenges, this program seeks to build capacity and foster international partnerships. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) has been instrumental in offering this life-changing opportunity, and this year’s program focuses on developing expertise in various academic disciplines under the six CSC development themes.
Applications are now open for the 2025-26 academic year. If you’re a highly motivated individual looking to impact global development and achieve your PhD from a UK institution, this is your chance!
Quick Overview of Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2025-26
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Universities: Any approved UK university
- Degree: PhD (Doctoral)
- Funding Body: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
- Deadline: October 17, 2024
- Programs: Research programs in any field that align with CSC development themes
- Eligible Countries: Least-developed and vulnerable Commonwealth states
Perks of PhD Scholarships by the CSC
- Fully funded tuition fees at a UK university
- Round-trip airfare from home country to the UK
- Monthly living allowance of £1,347 or £1,652 for those in London
- Warm clothing allowance, if applicable
- Study-related travel grant for fieldwork and research
- Family allowances for single parents
- Health insurance and visa costs
Benefits of Doctoral Scholarships for International Students
- Earn a doctoral degree from prestigious UK universities recognized globally for academic excellence.
- Comprehensive financial coverage, including tuition, airfare, stipend, and additional allowances.
- Engage with a global community of researchers, academics, and development professionals.
- Contribute to the development of your home country by gaining valuable skills, research expertise, and knowledge.
- Address key development challenges through cutting-edge research, driving innovation and sustainable growth in vulnerable states.
Exclusions of PhD Scholarships in the UK
- This scholarship does not cover part-time or distance-learning PhD programs.
- No funding is provided for dependents’ travel.
- Applicants cannot pursue a second PhD or an equivalent qualification.
- Scholars are expected to return to their home countries immediately after the completion of their PhD program.
Eligibility Criteria for PhD Scholarship by the FCDO
- Must be a citizen of, or granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country or be a British Protected Person.
- Must be permanently residing in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification at the time of application.
- Applicants must be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) may be required.
Important Dates for UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s PhD Scholarship
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: October 17, 2024
- Nominator Submission: By December 2024
- Outcome Announcement: May 2025
- Program Start: September/October 2025
How to Apply for the Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in the UK
- Visit the CSC online portal to submit your application.
- Upload transcripts, research proposals, references, and proof of citizenship.
- All applications must be submitted through National Nominating Agencies or selected non-governmental organizations.
- Avoid system congestion by submitting early, as the deadline approaches, the online system may experience heavy traffic.
Required Documents for Doctoral Scholarships 2025-26
- A valid passport or national ID proving citizenship in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Full transcripts of all higher education qualifications.
- At least two reference letters (preferably from academic supervisors).
- A well-defined research proposal outlining the relevance of your research to the CSC development themes.
Country-Specific Criteria for Commonwealth Scholarships for PhD Students
Eligible countries include those classified as least-developed and vulnerable Commonwealth states, such as:
- Bangladesh, Malawi, Sierra Leone, Pakistan, Tanzania, Uganda
- Dominica, Fiji, Gambia, Mozambique, Rwanda
- Saint Lucia, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and other eligible states (full list on CSC’s website)
Apply today and make an impact with the Commonwealth Scholarship!