Applications are ongoing at the Commonwealth Distance Learning Master’s Scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year. This scheme is one of the postgraduate funding opportunities administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the United Kingdom.

The CSC operates under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) and delivers scholarships funded by the UK government. The programme is designed to support talented individuals from developing Commonwealth nations who wish to pursue a UK Master’s degree through distance learning, without relocating from their home country.

What the Scholarship Provides

Successful applicants will receive financial support that includes:

• Full tuition fees
  
• Study-related grants where necessary
  

Applicants should note that this award cannot be held alongside another scholarship or bursary covering the same expenses. It is important to confirm funding conditions before submitting an application.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for consideration, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country, hold refugee status from one, or be a British Protected Person
  
• Be permanently residing in a developing Commonwealth country
  
• Hold, by September 2026, a first degree equivalent to at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours
  
• In some cases, applicants with a lower qualification but substantial relevant professional experience may be considered
  
• Demonstrate financial need and show they cannot afford the programme without the scholarship
  
• Submit all required supporting documents in the specified format

How Applications Are Assessed

Selection is competitive and based on the following key criteria:

• Academic and professional merit
  
• Strength and clarity of the proposed study plan
  
• Likely contribution of the qualification to the development of the applicant’s home country
  

The commission places strong emphasis on how the chosen course will help address development challenges in the candidate’s country of residence.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 31 March 2026 (16:00 BST)
  
• Programme Commencement: September/October 2026
  

Late applications are not typically accepted, so candidates are encouraged to complete their submissions well before the deadline.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s official online portal for distance learning awards. Prospective candidates are advised to carefully review the detailed guidance on the CSC website before beginning their application.

Interested applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and provide accurate, complete documentation to avoid disqualification.